Recognition for youth advocate

MLC Emily Suvaal with Jayden Delbridge

Central Coast youth advocate and founder of UrVoice Australia Jayden Delbridge, 19, has been named as a finalist in the Department of Regional NSW Create Change Award.

As part of the 7NEWS NSW/ACT Young Achiever Awards, the award acknowledges and celebrates the commitment young people across regional NSW make in achieving or participating in positive activities that empower change locally, nationally or internationally.

Delbridge secured his place as one of finalists for his unwavering dedication to empowering youth voices and addressing systemic issues within the education system.

“I’m honoured to be announced as a finalist,” he said.

“When I lost Dad to suicide over a decade ago, never would I think that I’d be recognised for my work in ensuring no-one has to suffer what I did

“I extend my congratulations to all fellow finalists who are doing a remarkable job of advocating for a better future both locally and abroad.”

Delbridge founded UrVoice Australia when he was just 14 with a vision of creating a schooling system that promotes effective educational wellbeing and allows students to comfortably discuss their mental health.

He currently sits on the headspace National Youth Reference Group and has previously been a member of the NSW Youth Advisory Council and Central Coast Youth Action Team.

“There’s still more work to do, and I’m determined to do it, but I’m honoured to be recognised,” he said.

“I look forward to continuing to work towards a brighter future for young people across the region.”

More information is available at awardsaustralia.com/young-achiever-awards/nsw/