SESSION OVERVIEW
Join Hannah & Charlie for an engaging session exploring how the R U OK? message can be embedded within university communities to foster connection, wellbeing, and early support.
Attendees will gain a brief overview of the history and impact of R U OK?, learn the four steps of an R U OK? conversation, and explore practical ways to encourage meaningful check-ins across their campuses. The session will also cover strategies for supporting personal wellbeing and checking in on colleagues.
The session will conclude with a collaborative brainstorming and connection activity, giving attendees the opportunity to share ideas and approaches for strengthening wellbeing conversations within their own communities.
PRESENTERS
Hannah Brown
Hannah is the Education and Young People Manager at R U OK?
In this role, Hannah leads strategy and campaign execution to drive national awareness and engagement with R U OK? in schools, universities, and TAFE’s, through meeting young people where they are at.
Hannah strives to provide young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to have R U OK? conversations and decrease the stigma around mental health.
Hannah has been at R U OK? for 3 years, previously working at youth mental health organisation batyr, and in suicide prevention research at Everymind.
Hannah has a PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics, and has worked in Academia, research, and teaching at the University of Newcastle.
Charlie Willbridge
Charlie is the Community Director at R U OK? where they Strategic oversight and leadership of the R U OK? Community Portfolio. Strengthening our work in communities across Australia including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Multicultural, LGBTIQ+. Expanding our reach through our Conversation Convoy which travels through regional and remote Australia meeting communities where they are at.
Charlie has been at R U OK? for 5 years, previously holding the role of Ambassador Program Manager. They have spent the last 18 years working in mental health and suicide prevention, with a large proportion supporting and advocating for LGBTQ people and families.
Charlie is a qualified Counsellor and has lived experience of suicide and mental health which is a driving factor in the work they do. Charlie seeks out roles that prioritise the voices of lived experience, increases social connection and community and advocates for systems that aim to reduce the negative health disparities of those from minority groups or social disadvantage. Charlie is also a parent and just finished their tenure on the Board of Directors for Rainbow Families Australia.