2026 Larita Academy
In April 2026, ten Youth Insearch Leaders travelled to Melbourne to attend Larita Academy, an intensive four-day program built around hands-on learning, helping young people develop real-world skills and direction toward employment.
It’s a critical next step in our Leaders journey, where they can start to think practically about their future.
Most of our Leaders travelled from regional communities in Queensland and New South Wales. For many, it was their first time travelling interstate and their first experience of a major city. Figuring out transport, staying in a hotel and managing their time required independence, decision-making, and a level of confidence that many hadn’t been asked to step into before. By the time the workshop began, our Leaders were already stepping out of their comfort zone and building confidence.
The Larita Academy gives young people direct access to CEO’s and industry leaders who share not only where they’ve ended up, but the realities of how they got there, including challenges, setbacks, uncertainty, and moments of growth. For many participants, these conversations help reinforce that progress often comes through consistency, commitment, and being willing to keep showing up and giving things a go.
“One thing that stood out was that Larry helped show me that you need to put in the effort with your work, or unfortunately you won't get far in life.” - Noah, Youth Insearch Leader.
Young people choose electives aligned to their interests and goals, exploring industries including hospitality, creativity, e-commerce, business and beauty through sessions led by industry professionals.
All 10 Leaders graduated from the Larita program, returning home with a clearer sense of the career paths they wish to pursue, and how to move towards them. “I want to start expanding my career into the mental health industry more,” said Youth Insearch Leader Kayleb.
The survey results are pretty amazing: 100% of the leaders would recommend Larita to others and 100% say attending had a positive impact on their life.
For three consecutive years, the partnership with Larita Academy has helped Youth Insearch young people translate personal growth into clearer direction, new opportunities, and real-world pathways beyond the program, with more than 20 young leaders graduating through the partnership to date and some pretty heart warming stories along the way.
