The Shoalhaven Youth Reference Group which has approximately seven members includes Courtney Flack from Nowra, Kurt Kuzela from Nowra Hill and Jade Williams from Worrigee.

The group, run by headspace Nowra, aims to provide passionate young people with the opportunity to help their community.

Jade Williams said being part of the group gave her the opportunity to meet new people.

“The training we get is great and I love being part of it,” she said.

The young people help with events and bring awareness to mental health through campaigns they make for Facebook. 

Kurt Kuzela happily volunteers knowing that he is making a difference to the lives of others.

“It is so rewarding. You gain skills and you just feel that you are being helpful to the community,” he said. 

Headspace Nowra manager and clinical psychologist Jo Allsopp emphasised the vital role that the volunteers play.

“They become champions within the community by advising us and giving us valuable feedback,” she said.

“Their work not only contributes to headspace but also to the wider community.

“They all come from an age group which is better at understanding how to relate to the youth. Our aim is to make headspace Nowra accessible, comfortable and a safe place which can support those who need it,” Mrs Allsopp said.

Young people between the ages of 16-25 can apply to join Shoalhaven Youth Reference Group by visiting the headspace Nowra website.