What Young People Say They Need From Their Community

“We need safe spaces where we can just be ourselves.”

This is something we hear again and again.

Young people want spaces where:

• they’re not judged

• they don’t feel pressured

• they’re not compared to others

• they can express themselves freely

Whether that’s through sport, art, education, movement, or just being around positive people — safe spaces are essential.

At SA Foundation, every session is designed to be just that: safe, supportive, and empowering.

“We need adults who understand us — not just tell us what to do.”

Young people are hungry for mentorship, but not the old-fashioned kind.

They want:

• people who listen

• people who have lived experience

• people who care about their wellbeing

• people who show up consistently

• people who treat them with respect

This is why our coaches, mentors, and volunteers lead with empathy and authenticity. Many have stood where these young people stand now — and that builds trust you can’t fake.

“We need opportunities we can actually access.”

So many young people talk about how difficult it is to find:

• affordable activities

• nearby programmes

• inclusive environments

• clear pathways for progress

• opportunities that don’t require money, transport, or connections

Accessibility is at the heart of our mission. If a young person wants to grow, we’re committed to helping them find a way.

“We want to be heard.”

This might be the most important one.

Young people don’t just want services — they want a say. They want to help shape:

• activities

• sessions

• creative projects

• leadership opportunities

• community events

That’s why youth voice is built into our programmes. We ask for feedback. We co-design activities. We encourage leadership roles. And we make sure young people feel ownership over their experience.

Because when they feel heard, they feel valued.

“We want to feel part of something.”

Community matters.

Young people want:

• friendships

• belonging

• connection

• a supportive environment

• a place where they’re welcomed, not judged

We’ve seen friendships form between young people who might never have crossed paths without our programmes. That sense of belonging changes everything.

What We’re Doing With These Voices

Listening is the first step — acting on what we hear is the next.

Everything we’re building at SA Foundation is shaped by real conversations with real young people. Their voices inspire our projects, our sessions, and our vision for the future.

And we’ll keep listening, because this organisation is for them — and led by them.

A Final Word From Us

To every young person who has opened up to us, trusted us, or shared their thoughts — thank you. You are the reason SA Foundation exists, and your voices will always shape our work.

To parents, carers, teachers and community members — thank you for supporting environments where young people feel safe, confident and valued.

This is only the beginning, and together, we’re building something powerful.