On Tuesday 16 May, PBC’s Growing Good Humans program held a Conversations that Count Event in conjunction with Miami SHS called the “The Changemakers".  The event was held in the theatre and 200 local community members, parents, students and staff were held captive by a fabulous panel.

Our speakers for the event were Em Carey, award nominated author and survivor of a sky diving accident who spoke of the way that you respond to circumstances; it can mean the difference between a positive and fulfilling life versus a negative outlook on life.  Em also spoke about how everyone has a choice in life and what they choose to do should have a positive impact on themselves and others.  Her mantra of ‘If you can you must’ was a positive way of looking at everyday opportunities.

Ellouise and Stuart Seaton, parents of the Palm Beach community who will soon foster their 100^th child relayed the challenges that foster children face, the opportunities that their whole family give to the children and the impact that the children leave on their family, so many treasured memories and stories.  It was wonderful to hear that they just give back without expecting any accolades, you just do it! Life can be chaotic but chaos can mean memory making.  If someone wants to give their heart, be a carer, those children are put with a family for a reason or a season.

Nick Marshall (OAM) is a sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist, and creator of Albatross Nippers run through Nobby’s Surf Club. Nick’s passion for ensuring those with special needs and disability are included in the community is contagious and inspiring.  It was wonderful to hear the impact that the program has on the mentors of the Nobby’s SLSC and how the notion of ‘it’s cool to care’ is touted within the club’s culture.

Final thoughts from the evening;

• Be prepared to be corrected in life, it’s ok.
• Your thinking matters in your happiness.
• Draw a positive out of the negatives.
• Everyone has their own unique story, it’s just great to hear it.