Kyle Hayes from Sunbury said it was humbling to be named a finalist in the 2022 YAVVic Rural Youth Awards.
He was nominated in the category of Youth Worker Making a Difference for his work with Woodend-based youth mental health charity Youth Live4Life.
“I am really proud of the achievement,” he said.
“I have had so many incredible mentors and role models through my time as a young person, so this is really a testament to all the wonderful youth workers I have had the privilege of knowing both as a young person and as a worker.”
Mr Hayes worked with the Live4Life program for years, helping to deliver the year eight program in the Macedon Ranges and supporting crew development in other rural Victorian Live4Life communities.
“A big highlight was our 2022 Crew Camp where we had over 50 young people from our communities come together for a leadership and development camp which was incredible,” he said.
Mr Hayes now works with Little Dreamers Australia, supporting young carers.
He said he wanted to thank Youth Live4Life and Macedon Ranges council for all the opportunities, programs and projects he was able to be a part of.
“I have spent most of my life in this area, I grew up here, I went to school here, I have worked in a range of places across the area, it’s my home,” he said.
“I know firsthand the challenges of growing up here, but also the incredible communities and people we have here as well, especially our young people.
“I can’t wait to see what comes next for them in Macedon Ranges.”
Elsie Lange
