The notion that 'young people can make a difference' is a familiar phrase. Youth advocacy has made broad-ranging contributions to the mental health space, and an evolving body of evidence illustrates the advantages of youth participation for both services and consumers. It enhances service delivery, cultivates and fortifies community bonds, and empowers young individuals to make lasting changes in their lives.

We as young people understand what that feels like. Therefore, it is important we can shape the development and use of best practice in youth participation as it continues to evolve.

After all, youth participation extends beyond merely amplifying youth voices. While frequently asked to contribute, consult and join advisory bodies, we have experienced instances where such roles lacked clear direction and opportunity, fostering a sense of tokenism that can be disempowering. Conversely, when youth participation is done well, it changes lives. We know this, because we have lived it.

Our objective is to delve into the experiences of young people actively involved in youth advocacy, and highlight what exemplary youth engagement looks like, including the impact it can have in our lives. We will describe strategies for integrating youth participation into mental health services, research and policy work, with the aim of enhancing representation and fostering positive outcomes for young individuals, consumers, and staff alike.