Social Futures was honoured at the 2025 Mental Health Matters Awards in Sydney on Friday, with its Resilient Kids program named the winner of the Mental Health Matters Youth Award.

The award celebrates outstanding excellence and innovation in programs that prioritise prevention and early intervention for young people. Developed in response to the devastating Northern Rivers floods of 2022, the Resilient Kids program has reached 8,804 young people and 1,151 caregivers to June 2025.

The Resilient Kids program was recognised for its unique and impactful approach to supporting children and young people to build resilience, confidence, and wellbeing in the face of challenges and disruptions resulting from extreme weather events.

Social Futures Program Manager, Shoshannah Oks, accepted the award at the ceremony alongside Team Leader, Olga Bruvel, and Program Worker, Michelle Wrigley.

(The Social Futures team accepting their award. Photo: supplied)

“This award is recognition of the courage and strength of the young people we work with every day. Resilient Kids is built around their voices and experiences, giving them tools to navigate difficult times, but also the confidence to thrive,” Ms Oks said.

“I want to thank our funders, dedicated team and partners, the communities and families that welcomed and supported the service, and most importantly, the children and young people of the Northern Rivers, who inspire us daily with their resilience and hope.”

The Resilient Kids program is funded by Healthy North Coast, which, through genuine consultation with the community, conceived an innovative response to meet the needs of young people post-disaster, and so Resilient Kids was formed. The Australian Government, through a $10 million grant via the National Emergency Management Agency, gave foundation and form to the vision, and Consortium Partners, The Family Centre and Human Nature Adventure Therapy, helped make the vision a reality.

Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said, “This award is a tribute to the young people of the Northern Rivers who bravely shared their stories, needs and hopes following the floods. Their voices shaped Resilient Kids, ensuring it was designed with them and for them.”

“We are proud to see Resilient Kids recognised as a leading model of early intervention and resilience-building for young people, and we are especially proud to see children and young people’s voices at the heart of disaster recovery and resilience planning.”

Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said the recognition highlights the importance of investing in young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

“This award shines a light on how vital it is to support children and young people early, so they have the tools to recover and flourish despite the challenges they face,” Mr Davies said.

“It also reflects the partnerships, collaboration, and community spirit that make Resilient Kids possible.”

Social Futures is deeply honoured to share this award with the Northern Rivers community and to continue walking alongside young people, supporting them to thrive.