Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Madison, a former QFCC Youth Advocate

Like many young people, I was excited to launch into the new decade that is 2020, particularly as I am currently in my final year of university and due to graduate in December. I never imagined that our world could be so significantly disrupted by COVID-19 or that we would seemingly watch the months fly by from the secure insides of our homes. I felt compelled to write this blog, albeit a little bit late, to share with you the reality of being categorised within the 4% high-risk COVID mortality category, as a 19-year-old. I have always been hesitant to publicly speak about my chronic illness, primarily because I don’t want to be treated differently or to discuss the types of medication I receive, or even to talk about the illness itself. But, if this experience has taught me anything, it is the importance of not taking things for granted and utilising the platforms and resources we have available to make a positive difference for others. So, if you will indulge me, I would like to share my experience of living without an immune system during lockdown.

My family and I went into complete isolation at the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, with our only physical contact with the outside world being when I needed to go for my regular eight weekly treatment. As part of my treatment, I undergo infusions of medication at a specialised centre within the hospital. Within this centre, on a daily basis, other people from the 4% high-risk category attend here to be treated for cancer and related illnesses. This experience is normally quite stressful as I have bad veins and it makes it difficult to insert the IV in order to receive the medication. This time was made more stressful as I didn’t have any support person with me, and I was also potentially exposing myself to other personnel who could be infected with COVID-19.

The other physical contact with the outside world occurred when I endured an incredibly bad flare up of my chronic illness, which resulted in having to be admitted to hospital. This was a very stressful experience, primarily because I had never had to be admitted before, let alone in the middle of a pandemic, which I was now exposed and vulnerable to. I was admitted for just under a week to receive high doses of anti-inflammatory medication, which place me at greater risk of being susceptible to any other illness, especially a virus like COVID19. So, although lockdown measures have begun to lift I, and many others who are in a similar immune-compromised state, will remain in isolation and continue to hope to be able to re-join the world in the near future.

In my everyday life, I am interning full-time, studying and attempting to virtually participate in a broad range of extracurricular activities alongside my university and local community organisations. I have adjusted pretty quickly to this new virtual environment, but I have also discovered the importance of maintaining boundaries for work, personal and down time. I have found that it is really easy to get caught up in non-stop work, in a variety of forms, and I have to remind myself to look after my wellbeing too. I know a lot of young people have been sharing concerns around their employment prospects after COVID, but I am optimistic that we will be able to come out of this experience stronger because we have wonderful examples from our prior generations who have shown us strength, resilience, determination, courage and conviction in times of uncertainty. In addition, we have the ability to continue with education via online platforms and for those of us who have been let go from casual/part-time employment, we can utilise this time to develop technical and transferrable skills.

Finally, I wanted to share my genuine appreciation for every single one of you who has followed the social distancing and lockdown guidelines all year. You have remained patient, open-minded and adaptable during this time and that is truly humbling. Your sacrifices have saved countless numbers of people just like me and although it may seem small in comparison, I want to say thank you for being proactive in your response to this virus and for looking out for those around you with invisible illnesses, the 4%. You have helped keep me safe, you have helped the numerous cancer patients I see each time I get an infusion; you have helped those who suffer from auto immune disorders and you have helped those who are immune compromised, amongst countless others.

I also want to say thank you to the world leaders who are under incredible pressure to maintain their composure and execute strategies to keep their citizens safe during a time where no one has the answers. Thank you to the frontline workers who continue to risk their lives every day they go to work. Thank you to the final year students who are missing out on their year of firsts and lasts. Thank you to the children of front-line workers who have said goodbye indefinitely to their parents and caregivers. Thank you to those who have contributed to recovery efforts. Thank you to those who are hard at work researching a vaccine and thank you to those who are participating in vaccine trials to accelerate the rate that we are able to become protected. This virus will of course be a defining moment in our recent history, but it is ultimately an opportunity for us to demonstrate the best of humanity – through innovation, resilience, compassion, research and understanding.

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Madison, a former QFCC Youth Advocate

COVID-19, the word on everyone’s mind and dominating news feeds around the world. This epidemic has brought the world, as we know it, to a grinding holt and is a defining moment in our recent history. So, what exactly is COVID-19 and why do we need to distance ourselves from one another? Put simply, COVID-19 is a disease that has been caused by a mutating germ and is spread easily from person to person. COVID-19 primarily infects our respiratory system and can pass from one person to the next through tiny droplets, when someone coughs or sneezes. It is really important to maintain our distance from others as we may be carriers of the disease, and be asymptomatic, but we may infect someone who is more vulnerable to the disease – such as those with pre-existing conditions or the elderly. So, to help slow the spread and protect one another, it is important that we stay home as much as we can and remember to show compassion and understanding during this unprecedented time.

It is important to recognise that COVID-19 doesn’t have to be overwhelming or entirely negative, there are stories of hope and positivity emerging through this crisis. I really admire the unique ways people are finding to look out for another and to help make the most of this time in lockdown. For myself, this experience has highlighted how easy it is to take our everyday routines for granted and I am viewing this time as an opportunity to refocus, connect and reprioritise for the year ahead. It is really easy as young people to get caught up in the rigour of our everyday lives, from school to work, extracurricular and after school activities. This time might be the perfect opportunity to read that book you had been meaning to, to challenge yourself to pick up a new skill or try a new language, to host a virtual cooking class with family and friends or to undergo some spring cleaning. To help cope during this prolonged period of isolation, it is also important to try and stick to a routine, take time out of the day for yourself, and remember that it is okay if some days you are only able to achieve one item off your to-do list.

One concern I know a lot of working-age young people have shared is around the financial instability they are experiencing, due to having lost their casual work, and the uncertainty around when work may become available to continue to support themselves. This is absolutely a challenging time, but there are some great resources available to engage with that are low-cost and can help to keep your resume up to date. Some of these resources include:

• Google Digital Garage – A free training platform that assists in the development of digital skills
• Code Academy – A free tool to help learn computer programming, web development and design
• LinkedIn Learning – A subscription-based service that offers a variety of professional development courses, ranging from beginner to in-depth training. If you are attending university, you may be able to access the subscription service for free, so make sure to check with your university for the details
• Alison – One of the world’s largest free learning platforms for education and skills training, offering a variety of courses and catering to numerous skill levels
• InsideSherpa – A platform offering free virtual work experience programs across a variety of disciplines

If you are looking for ways to support those around you, there are some great initiatives emerging too. One in particular is the Care Army, which is a support service for the elderly and vulnerable members of our community, that has been set up by the Queensland State Government. This is a meaningful way to give back and help to show the Queensland spirit, so if you are interested and able to assist, please contact 1800 173 349 for further details.  A really fun way to connect with members of your local community and neighbourhood is through the teddy bear hunt. This great idea takes after the classic children’s book ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’ and involves placing teddy bears in windows and around the outside of your house. If you haven’t already added your bears to the street, make sure you do and maybe go for an explore in your street (keeping in mind the social distancing rules of course), to see if you can find some more!

Another great suggestion to help pass the time and to give back to those who continue to provide essential services to us all, is to write thank you notes and share your gratitude for their ongoing efforts. This could be as simple as including a small thank you note on your mailbox, leaving a note near your door for the grocery delivery crew or showing your appreciation to your teachers during your online classes. These are the moments that help to define our community spirit and together we can all make a positive impact on those around us. 

Finally, I wanted to remind us all that although we are practicing physical distancing, we can remain socially connected with one another. We are so lucky to live in a time full of online platforms that allow us to check-in with friends and family and remain connected. It’s really important, now more than ever, that we prioritise checking in with those close to us and taking time out to look after our own wellbeing. One great resource to help you keep on track of your wellbeing is the coping calendar from actionforhappiness.org.

It’s times like these that remind us of what is most important in life and from all of us at the Youth Advisory Council, we hope you are staying safe and connected.

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Kathryn, a QFCC Youth Advocate.

We know it is important that we take care of each other, but it is also important that we remember to take care of ourselves. There are a variety of activities and routines you can practise to care for your own mental and physical health. Remembering to practise self-care can improve your resilience and reduce stress, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when stress levels in young people are higher than usual.

Steps you can take

Below, we have created a list of some habits that can help you boost your emotional wellbeing and feel more balanced, even when things might feel uncertain.

1. Try to engage in physical activity every day

Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, moving your body is good for your mind. You might enjoy team sports, such as netball or soccer, or perhaps you enjoy non-competitive activities such as yoga or hiking. You could try going for a short walk during the day, or going for a swim (if it isn't too cold!).  Meditation is also a useful tool for reducing stress, and there are plenty of videos online to help you get started.

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2. Fuel your body and mind with nutrients and vitamins that will keep you energised

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and remember to drink water throughout the day. Carrying a reusable water bottle around with you can help remind you to take regular drinks. 

3. Practise good sleep hygiene

If you practise good sleep habits, you can feel more energised and alert during the day. You can improve your sleep hygiene by setting a bedtime, putting your technology away before bed (the blue light from screens can decrease the quality of your sleep) and allowing 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night. Sleeping might feel like you're switching off for the night, but your brain is working hard whilst you sleep, processing information, storing memories and preparing for the day ahead!

4. Find a hobby you enjoy

Hobbies can help us de-stress and detach from the stresses we face in our daily lives. There are plenty of hobbies you can enjoy alone, such as reading, arts and crafts, music, cooking and keeping a journal.  You can also enjoy hobbies with other people, like learning a new language or going to a dance class.  

5. Take technology breaks

Your phone is a great tool. It is way to connect with your friends and family, stream your favourite tv shows and movies, follow the news, and keep up to date with what is important to you. However, constantly using your phone or scrolling on social media can increase stress and decrease the quality of your sleep. Try to plug your technology in and leave it alone for an hour before bedtime. 

6. Stay connected

At the moment, you might find staying connected a little trickier than usual, but there are plenty of ways you can keep in contact with the people you care about. Email and social media can help you to stay in regular contact, and with video calling programs, we can now see who we are speaking with, even if they are far away.  You can also stay connected through hobbies you enjoy, such as joining a book club or sharing music playlists with your favourite songs.

7. Speak to people who support you

If you are feeling anxious, sad or stressed, it is important to speak to someone you can trust.  This may be a friend, family member, teacher or a health professional; such as a doctor, counsellor, social worker,  psychologist or psychiatrist.  If you need urgent support, or want to speak to someone now, the resources below are here to help you. 

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or https://kidshelpline.com.au

Lifeline: 13 11 14  or https://www.lifeline.org.au

1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 or https://www.1800respect.org.au

QLife Australia: 1800 184 527 or https://qlife.org.au

YouthBeyondBlue: https://www.youthbeyondblue.com/ 

ReachOut: https://au.reachout.com/

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Aimee, a QFCC Youth Advocate

Content warning – Some of the content may contain material that is confronting and can cause sadness or distress. If you feel triggered or upset by any of the content, we encourage you to use your discretion as to whether you should continue reading and urge you to reach out to Kids Helpline or Lifeline.

Some of what I have to say is confronting, it’s true that it wasn’t always easy, I spent most of my time in care living in residentials. It isn’t all bad, I was persistent and met an aftercare services case manager that changed everything for me. But for you to understand what it is like for a young person leaving care, I want to share with you my story...

Just after I turned 18, I found myself in an induced coma in an Intensive Care Unit after a suicide attempt. I remember waking up in the Intensive Care Unit and looking around to see that every other patient in the unit had flowers, cards, or balloons near their beds. Most had family or friends by their side. I had no one and nothing around me except for the nurse, a complete stranger, at the end of my bed. I had never felt as alone in my life as I did in that moment. I was homeless, in a violent relationship, addicted to methamphetamines and had no one to turn to.

The actions of child safety officers, youth workers, or other members of a child’s care team shape the people that kids in care will become. Their actions are what can turn those negative self-beliefs that a lot of young people have, around.

When I met my case manager from an after-care service, it was clear that they were not willing to support me. This worker allowed their own beliefs, values, and attitudes to get in the way of providing the service that they were funded to. This worker, along with every stakeholder before them, let me down in more ways than my parents ever could.

I often think about the abuse I was exposed to as a child. It hurt me, but nothing compares to finally feeling that I may be safe and maybe someone cares for me, just to be dropped off with nothing and no one the next day, to be taken away from the only safe people in my life and to be removed from my home, all because I turned 18. And then to be promised support from an aftercare service and to meet a case manager and believe that maybe this person may be able to help, only for them to dislike the activities I was partaking in and refuse to provide a service.

My parents SHOULD have cared but they didn’t, so I was taken away with the promise that someone else would be able to care for me and provide me with safety and stability, but what happens when the very people that are mandated and legislated to care, don’t?

As I have gotten older, and have been able to reflect on my time in care and transition out of care, I have been able to recognise more and more workers in this sector that have allowed their own personal attitudes and beliefs to impede on the work that they do with young people.

Not long after leaving the hospital, I needed to move regions. The circumstances for the move were not good and I was angrier than I had ever been. However, after this move was when I met my aftercare next case manager. Although at the time I was unable to recognise it, this case manager cared for me and really wanted to support me. She wanted the best for me and walked beside me every step of the way, showing me unconditional positive regard and reminding me that I was worth it and that I was enough. With her help, I sourced stable housing, re-engaged in education, and built a support network around myself. I will be forever grateful for this worker, without her, I do not believe I would be in the position I am advocating for young people leaving care.

I want you all to remember that we are people, not just another number on a caseload. Your words and actions hurt and will stay with us forever. Maybe we can't articulate that at the time, but please know that it hurts us more than you think, we may forget your name, or the conversations had, but we will never forget the way you made us feel.

Currently, 30% of kids leaving care end up homeless within the first year. This is not a reflection on the young people themselves, this is a reflection on the care system as a whole and the support that was given, or in these cases, not given.

These statistics need to change. The gap between the outcomes of children living at home and children in out of home care is too big, it should not exist to the extent that it does. We know that when adequate supports are put in place and children actually FEEL supported, the outcomes are drastically different. I know that engaging young people can be hard, I have been on both sides. I have been both the young person and the worker attempting to engage the young person, but please try. Do not give up. Be creative, be persistent and most importantly, do not allow your own attitudes and beliefs to get in the way of supporting young people.

Nothing changes if nothing changes.

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Aastha, a QFCC Youth Advocate

Credit cards? Taxes? Mortgages? Time to really learn how to manage your money. 

When we’re in school, it seems like the only thing that matter are Assignments, exams and sports; that’s what our lives revolve around. But after those 13 years at school, we still don't know much about one thing that truly matters: financial literacy. As T. Harv Eker, author, businessman and motivational speaker said, ‘The single biggest difference between financial success and financial failure is how well you manage your money. It’s simple: to master money, you must manage money. 

My name is Aastha, and I’m a high school student passionate about all things finance. One of my core beliefs is that whilst the mainstream education system teaches us how to make money, it neglects the importance of how to manage it. This is a fundamental life skill which young people sadly never get taught! Finishing school is not the end of a young person's struggle, rather it is the start of them. As we transition into tertiary education or take up a job, we find ourselves facing problems other than assignments and exams. How do I manage my taxes? How do I invest? How do I obtain a credit card, and what does that mean for me? These are questions that most young people will ask, owing to a lack of financial education in school. I believe that school is a foundation from which we, as young people, develop fundamental life skills. Whilst there is an emphasis on holistic development beyond academic achievement, through sporting opportunities, music, art, and more, they neglect to make us financially literate.  

I’m a huge believer in educational reform because I think it is our duty to give young people the best possible chance they have at succeeding in the future.  

I realise that there is just not enough time to do everything. We find ourselves juggling time. How do we revise for exams, finish up assignments, do exercise and make time for extracurriculars? Not to mention the infamous procrastination! And now on top of that, financial education? I get it, but prioritisation is key. It is really important to set yourself up for the future right. Watching a two-minute video on mortgages whilst brushing your teeth in the morning might just give you the financial helping hand you need for life. Remember, whilst skills and education can help us earn money, you can’t be nearly as successful as you hope if you do not know how to manage it. So take the future into your own hands.

Make good financial decisions now that will set you up for financial success. Believe me, your future self will thank you. How much better would the world be if we all knew how to manage our taxes, take out a mortgage or invest in the stock market? It all starts with a bit of dedication, a little ambition and a taste of what your future could really be like.  

Aastha, Youth Advocate.

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The below is a guest blog by Ben, a QFCC Youth Advocate.

As I wander down the cobblestone streets, I gaze into shop windows, ready to explore the treasures that lay waiting in the dark. Watching the people interact with one another is strangely intriguing, and I can appreciate the diversity that swirls around me. The rich music that floats through the air involves instruments that I have never seen before, yet the musicians seem so comfortable and confident in their skill. And the food? Addictive. The ingredients are colourful and diverse, unlike anything I have seen before, the chef knowing the powers that each of them contains. The aroma torments me. I know that I won’t be able to find anything like it back home.

I am continually learning to appreciate the differences between our two cultures.

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In the 21st century, culture is one of the most undervalued forms of education that a young person can receive. In a globalising world, the ability to understand and appreciate a diverse range of cultures will become a necessary and valued skill in many roles. Young people must be given the opportunity to explore, to grow and to experience the variety that exists in the world around them.

I will admit, as a young person going through the Australian education system, I didn’t pay much attention to language subjects. In retrospect, I REALLY wish I had.

But why is culture so vital to the future of young people? Let’s examine three key reasons.

Personal Growth & Opportunity

This is probably the most important reason as to why young people should be immersed in a range of cultures – it allows growth and opportunity! Isn’t the aim of the Australian education system to provide young people with opportunities to support them in the future? Well, one way of doing that is providing culturally rich programs and classes that are available to all students.

For example, how do we expect a future diplomat to understand the role of governments and develop their interpersonal, negotiation skills and the ability to understand a different perspective with a range of culturally diverse people? How do we expect a future musician to understand the role that culture plays in shaping music from around the globe?

A way of meeting the needs of these students may be through a language immersion program. These programs allow students to immerse themselves in a choose language, where they are provided the opportunity to discover the chosen culture in depth. I mean, who doesn’t love listening to some quirky music in another language? Or trying a strange smelling food that turns out to be the most delicious thing you’ve ever eaten? It’s an experience, right? 

If you’re interested in reading more about language immersion programs, then check out this article that discusses opportunities for high school and university students - https://www.goabroad.com/articles/language-study-abroad/summer-language-immersion-programs

Cultural Awareness and Empathy

Providing young people with the opportunity to understand different cultures also builds upon their interpersonal skills, by exposing them to a range of socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. Consider this, how many times have you heard the story that kangaroos and koala’s invade Australian schools, and that the only thing we eat is this disgusting, bitter spread on toast? Sure, it’s not all true (though I don’t mind some good old vegemite), but how do we expect people from around the world to know that until they study Australian culture?

In my opinion, exposing young people to a variety of cultures improves empathy which has the potential to reduce barriers such as discrimination and racism. Stereotypes and stigmas are generally founded on rumours, unfounded bias or a general misunderstanding, and a clear way of addressing this is through cultural awareness and education.

Let’s go back to the example of a language immersion program. A young person that has the ability to explore a different culture has limitless potential. By understanding another cultures art, music, cuisine and language, young people develop a sense of understanding and empathy. Suddenly, stereotypes are broken down as that young person has experienced it firsthand and understands the history and traditions of that specific culture.

Simply, cultural awareness builds empathy.

Perspective

The power of perspective… It’s an interesting concept. Understanding your past, present and being able to make informed decisions about your future can impact our lives immensely. Culture helps us understand others, but more importantly, ourselves. The ability to pass on traditions to future generations and raise children to value their personal heritage is priceless.

Again, let’s examine perspective through the language immersion example. Now that this young person has had the ability to explore another culture, they have become culturally aware and understand a different way of life. The next step is being able to consider their own perspective. What has this young person learnt about themselves from studying an alternate culture? Have their personal values changed? Look at how you grew up and what you believe. Makes sense to you and you think it’s correct. Imagine if you had this experience of multiple other cultures and nationalities – your view and understanding of the world changes significantly, right?

As the saying goes, knowledge is power. Understanding the broader world means that young people are uniquely equipped to consider how humans interact with each other and develops their ability to consider different perspectives. This doesn’t simply involve understanding someone else’s cultural background, but also understanding and appreciating your own.

Perhaps you could learn a recipe from a family member that comes from your heritage? Perhaps you could listen to some stories from your parents or grandparents? Perhaps you could attempt learning a new instrument that is unique to your culture?

Young people are ready and waiting to learn about the world around them. Exploring different cultures can be a beautiful and exciting journey for many people, and in a globalising world, young people should be equipped with the skills necessary to interact with a range of culturally diverse people.

So, I have a final challenge for you. Go and learn something about another culture, or something about your own culture, and share it with someone!

That is how we keep culture alive.

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Li, a QFCC Youth Advocate

Adapting to online study is hard, no matter who you are – teachers, parents or students. For me as a university student, the transition has been really stressful. I’ve lost motivation to do basic tasks like getting out of bed sometimes.

At the start of this year, I felt like I was at the peak of my life. I finally had the chance to study abroad in Canada for 6 months after a year of planning using my savings I’ve saved up for the past 3 years. My time there was awesome: I was living on my own (like a proper adult!), making many new friends from all over the world, seeing snow for the first time and just enjoying life.

However, my time there was cut short. We all thought COVID-19 wasn’t going to bad as it is now, but it did happen. Within a few days, the Canadian governments started to take action. All schools in my region were shut down and still are until who knows when. My exchange university was shut down for two weeks while they planned for a smooth transition into online learning for the rest of the semester.

I was determined that I was going to stay and enjoy the rest of my semester in Canada, but the numbers kept rising. One of my best friends from exchange, who is from the Netherlands, still hasn’t been able to go home because she has a weak immune system and it is very risky for her to travel. That was when I realised that this was serious. Within a day of receiving information from the Australian government to return back to Australia, I was on a (full) flight back home to Brisbane. I am grateful that I was able to book a flight back home and have a place to stay with my family.

It was interesting to see how the two countries responded to the pandemic. I feel like in my area in Australia, people are still quite fearful because of the uncertainty around our situation. In Quebec, the province where I was studying, people are hopeful. Children around the region have been painting rainbows and putting them in their front windows, as a sign of solidarity and joining the ever-growing #chasetherainbow movement.

Right now, I am still studying at my Canadian university remotely, like many other children and students across Queensland, our country and all over the world. Over the last few weeks, instead of avoiding my responsibilities, I decided to take action and allow myself to maximise my time in quarantine. So far, I’ve been able to take control of my university studies as well as explore other hobbies and develop skills that I wouldn’t have time for usually, such as knitting and making digital art.

If you’re slowly losing motivation from online learning, I just wanted to let you know that you can do it! Here are some tips that have helped me get my life back on track:

1. Set a routine

Having a consistent schedule helped me organise my time better and achieve my goals. Set alarms for waking up and bedtime to get a full night’s sleep and avoid staying up all night. Use a calendar to dedicate time to activities you would like to do regularly like exercising or learning a new skill.

2. Have regular breaks

Not everything is about work or study, you need time to relax as well. Staring at a screen all day isn’t great for your eyes… so try doing an activity that you normally do indoors outdoors like reading, exercising and get some vitamin D. If you struggle with taking too many or too little breaks, try the Pomodoro method, where you work in 30-minute blocks (25 minutes of work and 5 minutes break).

3. Ask for help

There are many resources out there for you – whether that be your own friends or family, resources from your school or from the government. They are there for a reason (to help you), so don’t be afraid to reach out.

4. Stay Connected

Even though you may be miles away (or just next door!) from your friends and family, it is important to stay connected and check in with them. There are more ways to connect with others other than a call, text or video call… you can watch movies or even play games remotely with your friends.

5. Have a plan

Write all your upcoming work and study items due on a calendar to have a clear understanding of what your priorities are. Compile your priorities into a to-do list. These are uncertain times, but it is a good idea to write down some of your life goals and aspirations in this time for something to look forward to.

With every storm, there is always a rainbow that follows. Everything will be okay.

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The below is a guest blog by Ameya, a QFCC Youth Advocate

School was oddly quiet that day. The once lively campus was empty, with some classes only having a quarter of the number of students. Everywhere you went, the words could be heard. Corona virus. Lockdown. In quiet whispers or panicked shouts.  It was a fact that loomed over everyone’s heads and none of us knew what to do. After this day, we would all be in lockdown during a global pandemic. Life as we knew it was changing, and some of us didn’t know how to cope. Despite this, students tried to make the most of a somewhat normal school day, giving their friends what would be their last hug in a long time and making the most of extra-curricular activities or clubs that wouldn’t be able to run online.

Since that day, a lot has changed. Not just with schooling, but with things as small as doing the groceries or trying to find your first job. Several of my friends who work, mainly at cash registers at places such as grocery stores or fast food outlets could tell you at least one story about customers mistreating them. They have come home in tears after putting up with hours of abuse and angry customers, most of them forgetting that those serving them are also people. Several of them have been mistreated because of something they cannot help or change. Some of them have even had to witness violent brawls over essential items such as pasta and toilet paper while doing their shifts. Many of the essential workers stocking shelves, cooking or checking out items are at risk on a daily basis are young people in high school.  Yet at such a young age they have to deal with such abuse while being at risk, all while being stereotyped as “lazy teenagers who never work”.

On the other hand, many people are losing jobs and unable to work during the pandemic. During lockdown I have been trying to gain employment, however due to the impacts of covid, no jobs are available in my area. Several peers have lost jobs that were helping them save for university or other opportunities. The virus has impacted both people with work and without and it hasn’t always necessarily been a change for the better.

Another change during the pandemic has been school life. Many have assumed that online school has been easy. Adults have told me almost daily how lucky I am and how much I should love sleeping in. But during this time at home in isolation the amount of work set has actually increased. As we are in isolation, the effects of being alone have truly been felt. During this time alone, the concept of time has been lost and it makes being determined to work much more difficult. Without being able to connect with the school community in person, classes are oddly quiet online. Learning, especially in subjects that you find more challenging, has been made to feel to be almost impossible as you watch tutorial after tutorial online and work through worksheet after worksheet. Everyone has handled the situation differently, however I longed for the day for physical school occur again.

Many challenges have arisen during this time, some of which have significantly impacted how I receive my education. While most have assumed that online schooling is effective, efficient and easy, this isn’t always the case. Exams and assessments have been done online and work has been distributed via emails, one note and teams. However, internet issues or slow Wi-Fi has not only impacted my performance at school and ability to learn, but also impacted my peers around me. I am fortunate enough to generally have access to internet, but during the period of online schooling more questions were raised. What about families with only one laptop to share? What about the percentage of families in Queensland that don’t have access to internet? What about young people who are not safe at home and require face to face, personal counselling provided by the school or external organisations? There are several challenges and issues to be addressed during this trying time, however if we work together as a community, we can find ways to resolve and overcome these roadblocks.

It is important to recognise just how much young people, in particular school students, have been impacted during the pandemic. With everything that is happening in this rapidly changing world, it’s easy to overlook minors. But young people also have challenges they face during lockdown, whether it be dealing with stress and mental health or finding or losing employment. COVID-19 has impacted everyone in the Queensland community somehow. We cannot fail to acknowledge what school students in high school are going through as we grow up in this fast-paced world.

Amplify Blog

The below is a guest blog by Dominic, a QFCC Youth Advocate

In today’s digital era a strong personal brand has never been so vital. Who you are as a person is portrayed by your “brand”, or online image. Having a professional presence on social media sites is beneficial, invaluable and easy to do.  

Through platforms such as LinkedIn, people can search to see your work experience, community involvement and extra-curricular activities. This allows young people to access new opportunities and join a network of like-minded individuals.

A personal brand allows you to stand out in your field of interest and express your authenticity and uniqueness. It encompasses your values, goals, knowledge and reputation. Think of it like how your friends view you when they spend time with you, except online. It is an important aspect of job seeking and career building as it highlights your personality and experiences.

Developing a professional presence online has many benefits: Connect with industry experts, display your skills, build a strong name for yourself and boost your career. Although, for young people, it may seem daunting or overwhelming knowing where to begin. It is important to remember that every person in their position was once in your shoes.

There are a few simple steps which you can take to creating a personal brand that reflects you. Check out some of our tips below:

1. Search your name on Google

Searching your name online will show any results or information associated with you. Ensure this is up to date, correct and positive. If you come across something of you that shouldn’t be there, contact the website or person to remove it.

2. Create a LinkedIn account

LinkedIn is one of the most commonly used social media platforms amongst professionals, companies and businesses. It is a useful tool for students and young people as well as it allows you to connect with leaders, managers and future employers. You can list your leadership activities, awards or community groups your part of. 

3. Create a Twitter account

Twitter is also another platform that is widely used amongst businesses and industry leaders. It is an easy to use platform which allows you to share information, blogs or comments. You can post about your achievements, repost articles or follow leaders. It is also widely used in political circles and is one way to remain updated with news and current affairs.

4. Create a Blog

A great way to share your thoughts and expertise is to write an online blog. It is one of the best ways to start a personal brand and connect with your area of interest. You may feel like your opinion or knowledge isn’t valuable, but a blog is a perfect way to begin curating your ideas and sharing it. Platforms such Medium.com are the perfect place to publish articles and find your voice.

Being active on sites such as LinkedIn and Twitter can open many opportunities and allow you to connect with professionals and youth alike. No matter your age, it is never too late to begin crafting your online presence.

Families Blog :

When emotions get the better of you

You’re home after a long day at work. You’re tired, but there’s dinner to prepare, then tomorrow’s school lunches to pack, the kitchen to tidy, and folding to finish. And there’s a lack of helping hands to lessen the load. You collect odd socks and toys on the way to the bathroom then stumble over a growing pile of wet towels. You clench your teeth and feel the frustration build within you—are you the only person in the house who puts things away?

But you stop, take a deep breath, then another, and you think about how you want the rest of your evening to be. Instead of impulsively reacting, you choose your next response. You wait until dinner when you have your children’s attention and you explain how you that situation made you feel, how your body experienced frustration, and explain how your children can help you around the house.

Without realising it, you have successfully completed the empowering practice of self-regulation. A process we follow to manage big emotions—anger, frustration, nervousness—and to control our behaviour in response. Self-regulation is not a skill we’re born with; it’s one we gradually master throughout our formative years by observing the behaviour of the adults around us. It’s important for children to see their parents experience these emotions; it shows them you are human. But it’s equally as important for children to observe appropriate behaviours in response to those emotions.

But let’s be real. Sometimes it can be challenging to regulate our emotions, especially when we are tired or distracted. When it doesn’t go right, be easy on yourself, recognise your response, and try your best to do it differently next time. Identifying stressful situations and implementing simple strategies can help you manage your emotions in those moments:

• Stop, reset, respond—If you feel yourself becoming frustrated or angry, try to reset before you react. A few slow, deep breaths can reduce the intensity of the feeling. Download the STOP, RESET, RESPOND postcard and stick it on the fridge. This will act as a reminder for you and introduces the concept to your children as well. 
• Try to gain some perspective—Is a pile of wet towels on the floor worth losing your temper over when compared with other things going on in the world?
• Look for opportunities to reduce stress—Prepare school bags the night before to help in the morning rush, put a chores roster in place to encourage children to help at home, recognise the times you are usually tired and be extra aware of your heightened emotions.

We are good at checking in with others, but remember to regularly check in with yourself too. If the frustration of odd socks in the hallway becomes consuming, make sure you reach out to a trusted friend to talk about how you are feeling or seek professional help if you need to.