When Kane first connected witth Youth Insearch in 2022, life was tough. He struggled with low confidence, found it difficult to trust others, and often used alcohol to cope with the tension at home. For a long time, he felt stuck and unsure how to move forward or where to turn for support.
Everything began to change after Kane attended his first Youth Insearch Weekend Workshop. Surrounded by peers who had lived through similar challenges, he experienced something new - a safe space where where young people can face what’s hurt them without judgment.
“After going on my first program, I went home and decided to make some positive changes,” Kane said. “I moved out of my mum’s place and started to better myself.”
Through continued involvement in Youth Insearch's peer-led programs, Kane began to heal. He developed trust, learned how to communicate, and started believing in his ability to make better choices. Over time, he joined the Youth Insearch Leadership Pathway, a structured program that helps young people with lived experience support others through mentoring and group facilitation.
Now, just two years later, Kane’s life looks completely different. He has a full-time job, stability, and a sense of direction. Most importantly, he is now an accredited Peer Leader with Youth Insearch, helping other young people find the same strength he once discovered for himself.
49% of young people improve their use of alcohol and drugs after taking part in Youth Insearch programs (Youth Insearch evaluation, 2024). Change like this happens when young people are supported by consistent peer-led, trauma-informed guidance and practical tools that help strengthen mental health and resilience.
