A festival that promotes creating a network of support for Sunshine Coast youth is building on its success as it heads into its third year.
Nurture Festival is a one-day free event dedicated to advocating for youth mental wellness through a variety of activities, workshops and talks.
Since its beginning in 2022, festival co-founder Mark Forbes said the event continued to provide a safe space for teens to explore, learn and connect with their peers and community.
“Each year, we have learnt from the year before and believe we now have the formula right,” Mr Forbes said.
“This year, we have over 30 community groups coming together to nurture and support parents, carers and our youth.
“Mental health is an extremely important topic and the knowledge and ability to assist our youth is needed now more than ever.
“This year also highlights new partnerships coming together as the community groundswell continues to flourish.”
Mr Forbes said the festival was partnering with the Mooloolaba Rotary Club ahead of its Lift the Lid Walk for Mental Health on October 13, and the Eumundi School of Music, as well as continuing to work closely with local schools.
Festival highlights will include performances from local students, including from the Eumundi School of Music. There will also be drone racing, outrigger canoeing, panels and speakers.
First Nations singer/songwriter Layla Havana will be a part of this year’s line-up and said she was honoured to be involved with a festival that supports youth mental health.
“I think it is so great that there is more and more awareness being spread about mental health as it is such an important topic,” she said.
“I have seen many kids my age struggle with their mental health and I’m sure lots of those kids would appreciate events just like this one.”
The 15-year-old Peregian Beach local recently toured alongside Katie Noonan, Melinda Schneider and Abby Dobson for the A Kind of Hush national tour. This follows the 2023 release of her debut EP, Beneath the Surface.
“My favourite song to perform is one of my originals called “My Everything” because it is about my mum,” Layla said.
“I love my mum more than anything. She means so much to me and that’s why I wrote her a song and love to play it.”
The Coast teen believes music was an important way for people to connect within communities.
“Songs can be written to express feelings and experiences by sharing those songs can lead to people relating to others and creating connections.
“I like writing music when I want to reflect on my experiences and express emotions, but I also enjoy coming together with the people that also love listening to music.”
Nurture Festival is happening on October 5 at Lake Kawana. Visit nurturefestival.com.au to register for the free family-friendly event.
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