The Gosford RSL Max Potential 2024 Program wrapped up its 17th with a vibrant Celebration event recently.
Sponsored by Gosford RSL Club and other local businesses, the program celebrated the achievements and leadership growth of 31 Year 11 students from 16 high schools across the region.
The final celebration event brought together more than 230 community members, including Gosford RSL board and staff members, local businesses, sponsors, school representatives, Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and officials from Tuggerah Lakes and Brisbane Water Police Districts.
Over the past six months, the young adults underwent a transformative personal leadership journey, developing confidence, resilience, motivation and leadership skills.
They presented entrepreneurial projects addressing pressing community issues, such as knife crime prevention, mental health awareness, ADHD, domestic violence, support for disadvantaged youth, bridging generational gaps, recycling, and suicide prevention.
The celebration highlighted the significant personal growth and self-belief of the participants, showcasing the benefits of stepping out of their comfort zones and pursuing their goals.
Volunteer community coaches from diverse sectors were also recognised for their coaching and support of these young leaders.
“This program is one of our largest community initiatives,” Gosford RSL Club CEO Russell Cooper said.
“The support of our Board for 17 years shows the club’s dedication and commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders.
“The success of the Max Potential program in empowering young people and developing their personal and community leadership skills is a testament to their belief in its value.”
Member for Liesl Tesch, a long-time supporter of the program, encouraged the young participants to pursue their goals with determination and commitment.
She spoke about the difference every young person can make in their community, urging them to think big, step outside their comfort zones, and remain focused on making a positive impact.
Community coach Kylie Mayes spoke on behalf of community coaches involved in the program.
“I under-estimated how much I would take away from being involved in the program,” she said.
“Coaching is not teaching, training, or telling – it’s being a partner in accountability armed with a skill set to enable others to achieve their goals.”
Year 11 Terrigal High School student Kian Hill said he had been hoping to improve his leadership skills and mindset on things like his goals.
“Max Potential did that and more,” he said.
“It altered my mentality; it taught me to get things done as soon as possible and to the best of my ability.
The young adults undertook a variety of community service projects.
Anouk van’t Wel’s Ball in Her Court initiative focuses on promoting sports coaching among female audiences, with the goal of engaging more women in the world of sports and creating a supportive environment for young female athletes.
Casey Kepper’s Bridge the Gap focuses on improving the wellbeing, physical activity, and mindset of elderly residents in retirement villages.
Flynn Rudrum’s Volunteer Seekers creates a platform to connect school students aged 15-18 with non-profit organisations in need of volunteers.
And Libby Self’s Make it Aware before it’s a Scare focuses on delivering informative and engaging talks in schools for young students in Years 5, 6, and 7 (ages 10 to 12) on the dangers of vapes and e-cigarettes.