APM is gearing up for one of Australia’s toughest charity events to support the prevention of youth suicide and depression.
The annual Hawaiian Ride for Youth sees teams of cyclists tackle more than 700kms over 4.5 days in Western Australia.
Teams depart from either Jurien Bay or Albany on 25th of March and travel through towns in WA’s South West, Great Southern, Wheatbelt and Mid West on their way back to Perth on Saturday 30th of March.
Stopping at high schools along the way to visit students and discuss the issues of youth suicide, depression, anxiety and self-harm.
This year APM has a team of riders in training for the event which also raises funds and awareness for WA-based organisation Youth Focus.
Fiona Kalaf, APM Group General Manager - Markets and Innovation and former Youth Focus CEO (pictured above) will be hitting the road with the APM team as they take the South West ride from Albany to Perth.
"As a cycling novice, I have had my fair share of challenges during our rigorous training, but nothing compared to the challenges faced every day by the estimated 25% of young people struggling with mental health issues," said Fiona.
"This Ride is so important not only because it raises funds, but also because it raises awareness, reduces stigma and encourages people to reach out to seek help when they need it the most.
"It is an honour to be riding in Team APM – APM’s partnership of the Hawaiian Ride for Youth helps to ensure that Youth Focus can continue to provide free, psychological services to more than 3,500 young Western Australians each year."
Since it started in 2003, the Hawaiian Ride for Youth has raised more than $19 million for Youth Focus.
How to get involved
- Learn more about Youth Focus
- Support the teams and riders in the Ride for Youth