Haydon Grigg – South Australia

Haydon, 28, faced challenges fitting into traditional schooling and ultimately failed Year 12 due to difficulties with reading, writing, and socialising with others. He enjoyed hands-on learning, but his struggle with self-confidence led to a spiral of depression and anxiety.

Haydon has overcome significant mental health challenges through Eastwood Community Centre’s Adult and Community Education (ACE) programs. These classes and their support have been immensely beneficial, boosting Haydon’s confidence and enabling him to live independently in his own unit. He started with a cooking program, which improved his ability to cook for himself, and he has now expanded his learning into using TikTok and podcasting.

Despite occasional self-doubt, Haydon is remarkably articulate and is discovering his strengths while learning to maintain a positive and resilient outlook. His learning journey has brought personal growth and achievement. He is now mentoring other young people, using his TikTok skills, volunteering, and continuing with more classes to prepare for a better future.