Many of our ambassadors join because mental health is personal.

One student shared:

“Let’s just say I have been through some mental health struggles and the part that always stands out to me is how difficult it was to get validation for what I was going through… Now that I have the chance, I want to play my part in ensuring no other person should be struggling with taking the first step in their healing journey due to lack of validation for their struggles.”

Another reflected on arriving in Australia as an international student and finding connection through open conversations:

“I’m an international student who has been living in Sydney for six months… Last October, I had my first encounter with R U OK? Day, and I truly appreciated the impact of open conversations about mental health. That experience inspired me to get involved with batyr - to pay it forward by contributing to a community that supports other people.”

For others, it’s about challenging stigma they’ve seen firsthand:

“I come from India where mental health is often an issue that is overlooked, misunderstood and underestimated… I wish to join a space which advocates for mental health awareness and help give the right support and voice to those in need.”

And sometimes, it’s about turning personal experience into purpose:

“I’ve been trying to put myself out there more recently… I feel like I struggled more than I might have had to just because of lack of knowledge about available services so it would be great to try to change that for others.”

Another ambassador shared:

“My journey with mental health has been deeply personal… Becoming a batyr ambassador is an opportunity for me to use my experience to break the stigma around mental health, foster open conversations, and empower others with the tools to navigate their struggles.”

During National Volunteer Week, we recognise that volunteering isn’t just about giving back - it’s about building stronger communities. Our ambassadors bring mental health to the forefront of university life through events like Wear Purple Day and R U OK? Day. They create safe, visible spaces where conversations feel normal.

One former ambassador reflected:

“It’s been an incredibly fulfilling and eye-opening experience… Seeing the positive impact of our work firsthand has been truly rewarding.”

Another shared:

“R U OK? Day was a highlight for me… Encouraging open conversations about mental health and being part of an initiative that promotes checking in with others was both humbling and inspiring.”

These moments might seem small - a stall on campus, a conversation between classes - but their ripple effect is powerful. A single conversation can help someone feel seen. A moment of validation can encourage someone to seek support.

That is the impact our volunteers make every day.

National Volunteer Week is also about recognising how volunteering shapes the individual.

Our ambassadors consistently develop leadership, communication, advocacy and event coordination skills. They build confidence, resilience and stronger mental health literacy - skills that stay with them long after graduation.

One student reflected:

“This role has greatly enhanced my leadership skills… communication and advocacy skills… and time management… Engaging with the community boosted my mental health and resilience.”

Another shared:

“Working closely with like-minded peers made the journey enjoyable and supportive… The experience enhanced my confidence and awareness of mental health, encouraging me to prioritise my own well-being.”

This National Volunteer Week, we want to say thank you. To the more than 100 students who step up each year. To the peer leaders who start conversations. To the advocates who create safer campuses.

To the young volunteers who remind us that young people don’t just want change - they are leading it.

Your impact goes far beyond campus walls and because of you, more students know they don’t have to face mental health challenges alone.

Want to volunteer with us? Join our volunteer mailing list and be the first to know about new opportunities throughout the year, including as a student ambassador at your campus!