The “We Know Your Name But Not Your Story” project runs throughout Corangamite Shire, using young people as storytellers to build stronger links in local communities.

Corangamite Shire manager of community services Matthew Dawson said a VicHealth grant of about $74,000 was allowing the project to continue on for another year.

We Know Your Name But Not Your Story teaches young people videoing and interviewing skills to go out into their communities and tell the story of people from all walks of life, which are then shared on social media.

“This program is helping to prevent mental illness by building links in our communities,” Mr Dawson said.

“It’s been really positive and council is really pleased to able to continue the program.”

The project first began on the back of a well-being survey of 330 young people in the shire that found a high number lived with stress and anxiety. 

It is a collaborative effort between the shire, the Corangamite Youth Council and local health services and Mr Dawson hoped it would grow further by linking with other organisation such as the Building Resilience in Corangamite Kids (BRICKs) program.

VicHealth executive manager of programs Kirstan Corben said programs like We Know Your Name But Not Your Story helped young people build resilience and cope with the ups and downs of life.

“Our research shows young people will need to adapt and cope with challenges that are very different to what their parents faced,” she said.