The Blue Leaf Initiative is a youth mental health promotion project operating out of Bunbury and servicing the Southwest including Collie. Our project will be running for 12 months, funded by Healthway, to help young adults connect, build social support, and prevent suicide through early intervention and training.
Meet the team
As CEO for Investing In Our Youth Nicky provides oversight for the Blue Leaf team. Nicky has a wealth of experience in the community services sector particularly in the areas of youth, suicide prevention and mental health. Nicky has a Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services) from Edith Cowan University and 35 years’ experience working in the Bunbury and South West region. Nicky is also a safeTALK trainer. She lives in Dalyellup and teaches yoga and meditation
Bec strives to provide safe, inclusive, and accessible third spaces for young people to build their sense of belonging. With a passion for mental health and youth development, she leads the team to deliver engaging and empowering programs for young adults to connect in the community. Bec has a Bachelor of Health Promotion (Preventive Health), Graduate Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, and was the 2023 Mission Australia Regional Youth Worker of the Year. Bec is also a safeTALK trainer.
Sara supports the Blue Leaf Initiative with all things marketing, communications and support. She has a Bachelors in Marketing and Communications and recently started a diploma in Counselling with a focus on mental health. Sara’s completed SafeTALK and Mental Health First Aid trainings, sparking a real passion for youth mental health, especially around prevention and connection. Sara works part-time, and when she’s not studying, she’s at the beach with her kids or hanging with her beloved dog and chooks.
Ace is a dedicated youth worker with a Certificate III in Community Services and is currently working towards his Certificate IV in Youth Work. He is passionate about creating spaces where young people can connect, grow, and have fun. Ace loves seeing youth come together at Blue Leaf events. He believes in the power of friendships and community, and nothing makes him happier than watching young people build strong, supportive relationships. Ace is committed to making every event a place where youth feel valued, included, and excited for what’s ahead!
Bronte is a passionate youth worker and researcher-activist completing her PhD in Climate Justice at Edith Cowan University. With a background in public health and biomedical science, Bronte weaves her knowledge of health and wellbeing with social justice. Her commitment to climate justice drives her efforts to empower young people on eco-social issues while protecting community and Country.
Emily is a youth worker who has completed a Bachelor of Science degree and is passionate about learning. Emily finds it really rewarding to watch young people genuinely connect with others and experience positive interactions. She enjoys being able to contribute to creating an inclusive environment at events where people feel like they belong and are welcome to be their full selves.
Widely known as a natural “people person,” Freyah is always eager to lend a hand and can often be found volunteering whenever the opportunity arises. Her genuine passion, empathy, and charismatic presence have made her a valued member of the community, opening doors to meaningful connections and impactful involvement. Having already completed Certificates III and IV in Community Services, Freyah is now setting her sights on a Psychology degree at university, aiming to deepen her knowledge and continue making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Jen is a dedicated psychologist with a passion for supporting young people. With extensive experience working in schools, she understands the unique challenges and opportunities supporting youth. As a mum and South West local, Jen combines her professional expertise with a personal investment in the wellbeing of her community. At Investing in Our Youth, Jen plays a pivotal role as the facilitator for our Youth Mental Health First Aid courses. Her comprehensive knowledge and empathetic approach make her an invaluable asset to our team.