23 Aug 2024
Earlier this term, Mariam Fatima Syeda spoke at the Bicentennial of the Legislative Council of NSW in Wagga Wagga about mental health in regional Australia.
The event was part of a regional roadshow that consisted of a public speaking competition, workshops and a community forum in the evening that Griffith students Giaan Watt and Emily Crooks participated in.
“I’ve done public speaking since I was in primary school and I just love teaching people about new things. I love raising awareness about particular issues and just putting my voice about there,” explains Mariam.
The issue that Mariam chose to draw attention to was the lack of mental health support in rural communities. “I know a couple of family members and friends that are suffering with mental health issues,” Mariam elaborates, “It’s really hard when there isn’t that support to assist them.”
“I was a little bit nervous, but the second I went out on stage I thought ‘Now is my time to shine’,” Mariam recounts, “I feel like it resonated with a lot of people. The audience thanked me for my speech and they shared their own experiences.”
“I honestly believe I did the best I could, I’m really proud of myself and I’m so happy I went.”
Well done, Mariam!