QAIHC Youth Health Network Cornwell Peason

INTRODUCING Cornwell Pearson QAIHC Youth Health Network member

The QAIHC Youth Health Network provides an opportunity for young people to come together and yarn about health and develop solutions for their health and wellbeing.

How old are you? 28

Who’s your mob? Kulkalgal Nation, Central Torres Strait.

Where do you work/ what are you studying? I work for Darumbal Community Youth Service Inc. (DCYSI), a not-for-profit community-controlled organisation providing a broad range of youth services including bail support, homelessness support, alcohol and other drugs and education programs. I am a Youth Support Worker for the Walali Bili (Strong Walk) program, a community created Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture-based initiative that aims to encourage positive lifestyle choices and prevent re-offending behaviour. The program works in partnership with parents, care givers, elders, other services, and the community by establishing positive mentor partnerships for young people. I am involved in a couple of community meeting groups in the Rockhampton region. I am a member of the COVID-19 Community Response which includes most Indigenous organisations in the Rockhampton region. I am also the chair for the Rockhampton Youth Justice Sub Committee. This group includes Youth Justice, Community Legal Centre (Rockhampton), CQ University, Juwarki and Members from the Rockhampton workforce who are passionate about assisting Rockhampton youth. The aim of the group is to create a presentation for young people on their rights. Prior to this role I worked in child protection for five years as a Recognised Entity Worker and Family Wellbeing Worker. In these roles I have supported children and families through the child protection systems. I have always had a passion to support young people and this is the reason why I chose to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) which I will exit with an Associate Degree. I have been endorsed by Bidgerdii CEO Thalep Ahmat to be included in the QAIHC Youth Health Network. I attended the 2019 QAIHC Youth Health Summit in Brisbane which was a huge success.

Why is it essential that youth are involved in discussions about their own health? It is important that youth are involved in these discussions that have a direct impact on their lives.

Who inspires you? My father inspires me to be the best I can be. Growing up he instilled in me cultural values, family values and a strong work ethic. He taught me everything I know and how to be a good father. My father supported me throughout my footy career and my studying. My father makes me a better person, I want to make him proud.

What is your role in the QAIHC Qld Youth Health Network? I am a network member from the Rockhampton region in Central Queensland.

For more information about DCYSI visit darumbal.org.au. @darumbal @darumbal_ community_youth