Youth Advisory Council

Katie grew up on Awabakal land and has recently completed her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Bioscience and Data Science. She’s currently studying for her honours thesis in infectious disease modelling at The University of Sydney. Her long-term aim is to pursue a PhD in an area that will improve global public health outcomes. Outside of her own research, Katie is committed to ensuring a diverse range of youth lived experiences are consistently incorporated into the design and collection of mental health research.

Katie’s interest in mental health advocacy developed after experiencing significant mental health challenges in early childhood and adolescence. When not at university, Katie is a mental health speaker at batyr where she shares her story of mental ill-health in schools to break down the stigma of seeking help. This has led to a passion for early intervention through primary school mental health education.

Furthermore, from her experience with invisible disability, Katie is also passionate about improving the disproportionate impact of mental illness in young neurodivergent Australians. She believes primary and tertiary care needs to be accessible, specific and non-discriminatory.

As a continuing member of the YAC, Katie is excited to continuing collaborating with like-minded advocates to create change to the youth mental health space.