Alexis Perovic- Australia Galaxy Pageants National Finalist 2026

It’s easy to think mental health is something only adults struggle with, but at just 13, I’ve already seen how deeply it affects young people too. When my older brother was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, I saw how much emotional strength it takes to manage a chronic illness. It made me realise how important it is to talk about mental wellbeing and not just when things get really hard, but every day.

From friends and family to people in my community, I’ve seen how many young people are living with anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. In Australia, 1 in 4 young people experience mental ill-health, and rates of psychological distress have been rising for years. Tragically, suicide is still the leading cause of death for young people.

That’s why I want to help create change and start more conversations that remind others they’re not alone. Which is why I support batyr, an organisation that helps young people speak up, support each other and build the tools to get through tough times. Through lived experience stories and peer-to-peer education, batyr is changing lives and helping young people feel less alone.

Your support means more than you know. Together, we can create a future where every young person feels heard, supported, and empowered to take care of their mental health. Together let’s give a voice to the elephant in the room.