2026 Leaders Graduation
On 3 September, our community gathered at Grand on Ann in Brisbane to celebrate the graduation of ten young people as accredited Youth Insearch Peer Leaders.
The graduation marked the completion of 18 months of intensive training and development, and an important next step for each graduate. Throughout the program, graduates strengthened their leadership skills, built confidence and prepared to draw on their lived experience to support other young people facing adversity.
Becoming a Youth Insearch Leader requires courage, consistency and a willingness to step forward for others. These ten graduates now join a growing network of Peer Leaders who play a central role in our programs, helping young people feel understood, build meaningful connections and find hope for the future.
"I’m so grateful I was able to Graduate with my team, and will forever be a Firefly. I can’t wait to be able to go out there and help young people with my new role, and know that when I do go out there, I will make a difference.” - Noah, Leader
The significance of the graduates’ new leadership role was also recognised by The Honourable Deb Frecklington MP, Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, who delivered the graduation address:
“Today’s graduates are stepping into an important leadership role and that is mentoring the next generation. The responsibility is significant, but so too is the impact you can have on young Queenslanders looking to Youth Insearch for guidance and support. It will be challenging, but I hope it will be both fulfilling and rewarding.”
The ceremony brought together the families, volunteers, staff, partners and supporters whose encouragement contributed to the graduates’ development. We were also honoured to welcome Commissioner Luke Twyford, Michael Berkman, Greens MP for Maiwar, and Councillor Glenn Churchill of Gladstone Regional Council.
The event also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the organisations whose longstanding support continues to strengthen opportunities for young people. Recognition awards were presented to Queensland Lions District 201 Q3, Queensland Lions District 201 Q4, the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and Hand Heart Pocket The Charity of Freemasons Queensland, for generously hosting the graduation.
This milestone reflects an investment not only in ten individual young people, but in the collective leadership capacity of Youth Insearch.
As the graduates step into their new roles, they strengthen our ability to deliver peer-led support grounded in connection, trust and lived experience.
