Hailey - Wonthaggi

Hailey (she/her) is a 16-year-old pansexual young person from Wonthaggi, Victoria, dedicated to creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth.

In this episode, Hailey shares her journey of self-acceptance, from first realizing she was pansexual at a young age to finding the confidence to fully embrace her identity. She reflects on the impact of supportive friends, teachers, and the YES Youth Hub in helping her feel seen and valued. Hailey also discusses her passion for community work, her role in the Youth Advisory Council, and her involvement in organizing Pride Prom—an event that provides a safe, joyful space for queer young people in her community. As someone who has faced challenges in school, she speaks candidly about the importance of creating environments where LGBTQIA+ youth can feel supported, celebrated, and free to be themselves.

Trigger Warnings: Bullying, school-based discrimination, and discussions of self-worth.