Valentina

20 Hours. No Phone. No Talking. No Distractions. Just Me, a 2x2m Space, and a Purpose.

Hola/ Kaya! 

I’m excited (and a little nervous!) to share that I’ll be participating in the “20 Hours for 20 Talk” Challenge, a powerful initiative by 20 Talk that raises awareness for youth mental health through connection, resilience, and real conversations.

As part of the challenge, I’ll be pushing myself for 20 hours straight (mentally and physically) in complete silence inside a 2x2 metre square: No phone, no talking, no distractions… just me, my thoughts, and my commitment to breaking down mental health stigma and making a real impact to youth mental health. 

Why? Because silence speaks volumes, and far too many young people are suffering in silence every day. And I know many of us have been there too. And that’s exactly why I’m doing this. Here are some statistics: 

• 298 Australians aged between 18 and 24 years died by suicide in 2023.
•   42.9% of Australians aged 16-85 years had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life in 2020-2022.
•   12,000 calls about suicide were received by Kids Helpline in 2023.
•   In 2023, young people aged 15-19 rated their happiness at just 6.2 out of 10, the lowest score in a decade.

By sitting in silence, I want to shine a light on those who feel like they can’t speak, those who feel alone, and those still finding the courage to open up.

I’m supporting 20 Talk, an amazing youth-led mental health organisation, and my goal is to raise at least $1,000 to help them continue providing the support, resources, and real-life conversations young people need.

You can help in 2 powerful ways:

• Donate: Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference
• Share: Spread the word by sharing my fundraiser link with your familia, friends, network.
  

GRACIAS/ THANK YOU for standing with me and with the countless young people who need to know they’re not alone. 🫶🏽