The Clutha District Youth Council is hosting Timaru-born author, podcaster and award-winning film-maker Jazz Thornton at Te Pou Ō Mata-Au on October 16, following this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week.
Ms Thornton, 30, will speak about her personal experiences dealing with depression following childhood abuse and her journey to recovery.
Following several suicide attempts at high school, she went on to co-found Voices of Hope, which works to remove the stigma surrounding mental illness, promoting hope.
She was recognised with the Young New Zealander of the Year award in 2021.
Youth council deputy chairwoman Nancy Turner said mental health was an issue affecting everyone.
“This event is important because so many of us struggle with mental health in our everyday lives and it’s not really talked about in our community.
"We chose Jazz as she is able to show that there is hope and the way she shares her story is impactful on all generations," Ms Turner said.
Clutha District Council community development team leader Lilly Paterson said although the event — Stronger Than Silence — was youth council-run, it was for everyone in the community.
"Earlier this year, the youth council ran a youth-needs survey with 12 to 24-year-olds across the district.
"Mental health emerged as one of the top concerns.
"In response, we decided to invite Jazz Thornton to share her message of hope and resilience, her journey of navigating the depths of mental illness, surviving suicide attempts and transforming her pain into purpose."
Ms Paterson said advance bookings were recommended and a supper would be provided.
Bookings (restricted 12+) could be made via the council’s social media pages.
