NextGen: Understanding the Who, How, and Why.
Chris’s path to becoming a mentor and counsellor was forged through his own challenges. As a teen dad, Chris faced the overwhelming demands of adulthood far earlier than he was prepared for. Life threw him into situations that required skills he was never taught—budgeting, parenting, working and navigating personal relationships. He battled with substance abuse, struggled to overcome a victim mindset, isolation and frequently felt lost and directionless.
It wasn’t until Chris began to reflect on the unresolved traumas of his childhood experiences of neglect, bullying and low self-worth that he understood how deeply these wounds had shaped his life choices. Reconnecting with Amanda brought a new sense of purpose and together they committed to breaking free from their pasts, building a healthier relationship, stronger future and creating a life filled with meaning and intention.
Amanda’s journey was marked by hardship and a sense of disconnection. Growing up as "the poor kid," she endured relentless bullying, feelings of inferiority, low self esteem and a constant sense of not belonging. She became a chameleon, molding herself to fit the expectations of others, never truly knowing or embracing her authentic self.
Adulthood brought its own challenges, including toxic relationships and a deep-rooted belief that she didn’t deserve better. Becoming a stepmother was the wake-up call Amanda needed it inspired her to strive for a better life, not just for herself but for her new family. A turning point came when someone saw through her struggles and helped her uncover her inner strength. This pivotal moment ignited Amanda’s journey of self-discovery, healing and empowerment.
Chris and Amanda understand firsthand the struggles teenagers face, feeling unheard, navigating complex emotions, relationship breakdowns and dealing with the pressure to conform. Their personal experiences, combined with their professional training, make them uniquely equipped to provide the mentorship they once needed and longed for as youth.
Through NextGen, they’ve created a safe, engaging, empathetic and interactive space where teens can confront their challenges, explore their strengths and gain the tools to thrive. By sharing their stories and the lessons they’ve learned, Chris and Amanda aim to inspire young people to embrace their true selves, overcome obstacles, and build a future filled with possibility.
The Who
The How
Empowering Teens Through NextGen Seminars
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At NextGen, Chris and Amanda leverage not only their lived experience but their expertise in counselling and youth support to offer transformative and engaging seminars tailored to ALL teenagers. As qualified counsellors and proud members of the Australian Counselling Association and Certified Practising Counsellors of Australia, they bring years of experience in mental health and youth development to deliver seminars that are both impactful and practical.
These seminars go beyond traditional presentations; they are interactive, informative and designed to actively engage participants. Teens are encouraged to explore, share and apply what they learn in a supportive and empowering environment.
The seminars will:
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Address Key Challenges: Topics such as managing anxiety, building resilience, navigating change and creating healthy relationships are explored with actionable strategies.
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Promote Emotional Wellbeing: Teens will gain tools rooted in proven approaches like mindfulness and strength-based practices to manage life’s challenges effectively.
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Encourage Hands-On Learning: Activities, open discussions and relatable examples create an engaging space where participants can connect with the content in meaningful ways.
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Empower Personal Growth: The focus is on equipping teens with the confidence, self-awareness and practical skills they need to thrive in their daily lives.
Chris and Amanda’s seminars provide a safe and dynamic platform for teenagers to grow, learn and connect, offering them the tools and encouragement they need to overcome challenges and realise their full potential.
The Why
At NextGen, Chris and Amanda are deeply committed to helping youth and their families navigate the challenges they face. With years of experience working in child protection and supporting young people from neurodivergent backgrounds, they have witnessed firsthand the struggles that many teens face daily. Through their work, they’ve seen how widespread mental health issues have become, with many young people lacking the necessary resources or support to deal with these challenges—sometimes even without realizing how much they need it.
Chris’s journey to becoming a mentor began when he encountered a young person at basketball who seemed lost and disconnected. This moment of connection opened his eyes to the profound impact mentorship could have on a young person’s life. It made him realize his true purpose: to support more teens, to reach the wider community, and to be there for young people who were struggling just as he once had.
Through NextGen, Chris and Amanda have created a supportive, interactive environment where teens can openly confront their struggles, discover their strengths, and gain valuable tools for personal growth. Their goal is not only to guide teens in building brighter futures but also to help families strengthen their communication and relationships. By sharing their personal stories, lessons learned, and the power of mentorship, they aim to inspire young people to embrace their authentic selves, overcome obstacles, and cultivate resilience.
Chris and Amanda’s mission goes beyond individual growth; they are passionate about helping families grow together, communicate more effectively, and provide the guidance that youth in today’s world desperately need.
We believe in the potential of every young person. They can embrace who they are, define their future and positively impact the world.
Our Mission
At NextGen Youth Services, our mission is to empower and support youth and their families by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate life's challenges and thrive.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a community where young people feel understood, valued and empowered to lead fulfilling lives, and where families receive the guidance and support they need to foster strong, healthy relationships.