24-year-old Zac Cawdron transforms lived experience into support for WA’s at-risk youth

Zac Cawdron has proven that WA’s youth can not only overcome adversity, but come out the other side resilient, compassionate, and successful. Amidst personal struggles, Zac has excelled in various volunteer roles with various organisations including the Youth At Risk Network (YARN), WA Poets, and the Perth Inner City Youth Service.

Zac has been volunteering at YARN since 2020 and has since served over 1000 at-risk young people and coordinated 14 events. “I was inspired to volunteer at YARN as I wanted to be able to provide opportunities to disadvantaged young people in the creative industries, as without help and connections it can be really hard to break into,” said Zac. “I enjoy being able to give back to the community, volunteering with good people and inspiring younger people to help out.”

He is now the Chair and Coordinator for the organisation, which provides crucial support for young people dealing with mental health, alcohol and other drug addiction, homelessness, sexual health, out-of-home care, and more. Zac has proven himself to be an exceptional leader at the organisation, collaborating with marginalised groups and ensuring vulnerable youth are properly supported. He had a diverse array of responsibilities, from strategic planning to hand-on engagement with youth programs.

Last year, Zac’s success as a volunteer reached new heights. He coordinated four YARN events which each attracted 80-150 young at-risk individuals. Attendees not only received meals and fresh haircuts, but more importantly, connected with services tailored to their unique needs. Each event had over ten youth services attending with their own stalls, engaging with at-risk youth in a fun environment.

“A standout moment for me was this year’s Youth Week Event which we did in Mirrabooka. Up until now the events have been in and around the city, so it was very rewarding to go out into the suburbs in an area that doesn’t get these activities happening.” said Zac.

Zac’s volunteering contributions don’t end there. He is also a Board Member for WA Poets and the Perth Inner City Youth Service, advocating for creative expression and providing further support to vulnerable youth. He also participated in the Homestretch Steering Committee, which provides an opportunity for the voices of young people who share their experience of ‘aging out’ of the state care system at 18 and being forced, with significantly fewer resources, into independence much younger than their contemporaries.

Volunteering WA thanks Zac and commends him on his ability to transform his lived experiences into catalysts for positive change, empowering those who lack opportunities and helping them reach their full potential.