Youth Leadership Festival 2025

WEEKEND SCHEDULE

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KEYNOTE SPEAKER BIOS

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Hugo Toovey 

Hugo Toovey is a two-time cancer survivor, Army Major, and Founder of 25 STAY ALIVE. 

Despite facing testicular and bowel cancer in his twenties, Hugo has turned his adversity into impact, sharing his story to empower others to take charge of their physical and mental health. Hugo speaks with raw honesty, vulnerability, and humour, making even the toughest conversations feel real and relatable. He doesn’t just share a story - he shifts perspectives, ignites action, and leaves a lasting impact.   

image of hugo toovey, who is speaking at the canteen youth leadership festival
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Samuel Johnson OAM 

Samuel Johnson OAM has been working in the entertainment industry for over 30 years. He is known as an actor, radio presenter, voiceover artist and philanthropist.

 Stand out roles include his role in the cult hit The Secret Life Of Us, for which he won the AFI Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Television Drama Series, as well as his portrayal of Ian Molly Meldrum in Seven’s ratings smash Molly. Sam won the 2017 Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality on Television, Silver Logie Award for Best Actor and the 2016 AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor for his portrayal of this iconic role. In 2019 Samuel competed and won the 16th season of Dancing with the Stars and raised $50,000 in prize money for his charity Love Your Sister. 

In addition to acting, 2003 saw Samuel ride his unicycle 1003.4 kilometres between Sydney and Melbourne to raise $500,000 for Canteen and initiated a film making program for 'at risk' teens through Open Family, as featured in ABC's Australian Story.

In 2013, Samuel decided to ride the unicycle again. This time he would ride around the whole of Australia, raising money for cancer research, setting a new Guinness World Record for most distance travelled on a unicycle and more importantly, keeping his promise to his sister Connie that he would complete the ride and spread her message of breast cancer awareness.

WORKSHOP BIOS

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Workshop Presenter: Brett Humphreys – Leading Teams 

The mechanics and dynamics of leadership 

“High performing teams require high performing leaders.”  

Here’s the thing: great leadership isn’t something you’re born with - it’s something you build, on purpose! 

This workshop is designed for emerging leaders ready to grow. Together, we’ll explore what high performance really means, uncover your leadership strengths, and identify where you want to develop next. You’ll walk away with a personal focus and practical tools you can use straight away - all in a fun, energising session with your peers. 


Workshop Presenter: Canteen ECS (Jane, Louise & Mikaela) 

Future leaders in action 

Step into the shoes of a social innovator and lead change in this fast-paced, hands-on simulation. In teams, you’ll tackle real-world challenges linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, design bold solutions, and pitch your ideas, all while discovering your leadership style and exploring purposeful career pathways. This session is for curious minds who want to lead creatively, solve problems that matter, and shape the future of work. 


Workshop Presenter: Kate McKillop 

Empathy, confidence and coming home to connection 

Learn coping skills to manage big emotions, regulate your mood and build confidence, while enjoying the mind-body benefits of movement through yoga. This is a fun-filled, highly experiential workshop that draws on groundbreaking research by New York Times best-selling author Dr. Brené Brown into vulnerability, courage and worthiness. An authentic opportunity for connection. Show up. Be seen and live a braver life! 


Workshop Presenter: Sydney Improv Theatre 

Confidence in speaking with emotion and authenticity 

In this interactive workshop, you will learn practical communication and leadership skills by playing a variety of improv games. It is a great opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, build up confidence and creativity, and connect with your peers. 


Workshop Presenter: YARN (Young Adult Reconciliation Network)

Standing tall through storytelling 

This workshop brings together young leaders to explore what leadership means from a cultural, personal, and community lens. Each group will build a symbolic totem pole not in the traditional sacred form, but as a creative activity drawing from the symbolism of standing strong, carrying legacy, and being guided by values.