Young Leaders Gather for LifeLink Forum

Santa Maria College Year 9 Just Leadership students recently attended the Archbishop’s Forum for LifeLink Day, an annual event established by the Archdiocese of Perth in 1999 to support agencies that provide care and assistance to people in need across Western Australia.

LifeLink agencies deliver professional services and compassionate support to thousands of people in the community each year. LifeLink Day encourages schools to learn more about the needs in our community, while also raising awareness and funds for these important organisations.

The forum, held at Aranmore Catholic College, brought together student representatives from Catholic schools across Perth. Students had the opportunity to hear from Archbishop Timothy Costelloe and Bishop Donald Sproxton, Chairman of LifeLink, and engage with fellow young leaders from other schools.

This year’s event focused on the theme of the “Special Year of St Francis,” the global Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV. In his address, Archbishop Costelloe spoke about St Francis as a man of peace, prayer and purpose. He challenged students to reflect these same values in their daily lives by showing compassion, dignity and service to others.

Students participated in presentations and workshops that explored important social issues and encouraged meaningful discussion about how young people can contribute positively to their communities. The day also included opportunities for students to collaborate with peers from other schools while sharing ideas and experiences.

The forum was both inspiring and thought-provoking, reminding students of the importance of leadership through service and the impact they can make in supporting vulnerable members of the community through initiatives such as LifeLink.