Live4Life inducts newest mental health leaders

Published on 10 March 2026

More than 50 students from across the Glenelg Shire have been inducted as the newest wave of youth mental health leaders.

Live4Life Glenelg welcomed 56 new and returning crew members last week, with Year 9 and Year 10 students from Casterton, Heywood and Portland continuing the initiative’s award-winning success.

The full day induction, held at the Portland Civic Hall, introduced crew members to the year ahead through team building activities, planning sessions and an overview of the Live4Life model.

Youth Development Officers Meghan Bennett and Melissa Smith said they were thrilled to see such strong engagement from students.

“The crew plays a vital role in delivering events and promoting key Live4Life messages in their schools and communities. Young people want to hear from their peers about mental health, which is why the crew is so important,” they explained.

“Throughout the year crew members will gain valuable knowledge and skills to help them feel more confident in their role as Youth Mental Health Ambassadors. They will champion positive mental health promotion, as well as building their own public speaking and communication skills.”

They said the enthusiasm shown by the new crew highlights the passion young people have for supporting positive mental health.

“It’s inspiring to see so many young people step up to help break down the stigma around mental health. This year’s crew theme, chosen by the students, sets an upbeat tone for the year ahead: ‘Different isn’t wrong when everyone belongs’, they said.

The inaugural event for 2026 was proudly supported by corporate sponsor Portland Aluminium, who have recommitted to provide mental health funding for the Life4Life Glenelg program over the next three years.