A Q&A with Yarra Ranges headspace volunteer Finn Stirling

Finn Stirling is a young person passionate about mental health and volunteers with headspace. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS. 296128_01

1. What is something people don’t know about you?

I’m super sensitive, and need 8-10 hours of sleep a night!

2. What inspired you to pursue youth work and volunteer at headspace?

When I was younger, youth workers made me feel so seen and helped me really grow! I want to foster that same sense of safety, understanding and support for other young people. I’m also super passionate about young people’s voices being heard and valued in our community, and headspace really champions this.

3. What do you enjoy most about working to make a difference in young people’s lives?

The connections I make! Young people are so creative and dynamic, I love learning from the young people I work with and being a safe person for them.

4. What has been one of your most memorable moments/events ?

Talking a group of LGBTQIA+ young people from the Yarra Ranges to the Minus 18 Queer Formal this year is a massive highlight. Minus 18 played a huge role in my gender and sexuality exploration, and in finding my queer community. It was incredible (and so emotional!) to be a part of that for other young people.

5. Having grown up in the Yarra Ranges, what is something you love about it?

I love being so connected to nature! It’s so peaceful and taking walks or reconnecting with nature is a big part of my self care practice.

6. What event, past, present, or future, would you like to witness?

It would be incredible to witness a treaty being signed in my lifetime between the Aborignial and Torres Strait Islander people and the Australian Government. This would mean the Australian Government not only acknowledges the ongoing and historical injustices of colonisation, but protects the rights of First Nations people in this country, and it’s looking like we will be the first generation to see this.

7. Which four guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party?

Gene Kelly, Louisa May Alcott, Nevo Zisin, Alok Vaid-Menon

8. Who do you admire the most?

My grandma.

9. What are some of your hobbies?

I love reading, crafting (particularly embroidery), hiking and writing!

10. What is your favourite book and/or film?

Little Women is one of my favourite books of all time! (the movies are great too) my favourite film is Good Will Hunting.