DiaBuddies Youth Leadership Program Build confidence, connection and mentoring skills to support young people with type 1 diabetes Diabetes Australia is proud to offer the DiaBuddies Youth Leadership Program, supporting young people living with type 1 diabetes to develop the skills, confidence and mindset to mentor others. Delivered in partnership with Shine From Within, an award-winning organisation that has trained youth mentors globally, this program equips participants with practical mentoring skills grounded in lived experience. If you are aged 18–24, living with type 1 diabetes, and based in NSW, ACT, QLD or TAS, we encourage you to get involved. The next program will run from 1 March 2027 to 30 May 2027. Register your interest via the button below. Register your interest About the program The DiaBuddies Youth Leadership Program is a fully-funded 12-week online training program designed to build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently mentor young people, both one-on-one and in groups. And thanks to Diabetes Australia, the program is free for participants! Participants will: Learn how to support younger people using their lived experience Build communication, confidence and mentoring skills Practise real-world mentoring approaches in a supportive environment The program includes: Self-paced online learning (1–2 hours per week) Weekly live group sessions to practise skills and connect with peers Practical tools, templates and frameworks to apply learning On completion, participants will receive a certificate and can explore opportunities to become involved as a DiaBuddies Youth Mentor. What you will learn By the end of the program, you will: Understand the role and responsibilities of a Youth Mentor Build confidence to share your lived experience safely and meaningfully Develop active listening and communication skills Understand common challenges faced by young people and how to support them Create inclusive, accessible and safe environments Facilitate group discussions, workshops and activities Apply practical frameworks to design mentoring sessions or youth activities What happens after the program? After completing the program, participants may: Become a DiaBuddies Youth Mentor Support DiaBuddies events and activities Contribute to youth-focused content and resources Help shape programs and advocate for young people with type 1 diabetes Take part in national advocacy opportunities through the Blue Circle Collective, connecting with other young advocates to raise awareness and influence change Eligibility You can apply if you: Are aged 18–24 Live with type 1 diabetes Are based in NSW, ACT, QLD or TAS Have access to a computer, reliable internet and a private space for online sessions Can commit approximately 1–2 hours per week of self-paced learning, plus live sessions If you have any questions, please direct enquires to DiaBuddies via this email address – [email protected] Apply for the DiaBuddies Youth Leadership Training
