Yes, advocacy can be slow. Yes, it can be exhausting. But most importantly—advocacy works. And every time it does, lives are changed.

We don’t always use the word “win,” because this work isn’t about scoring points. It’s about justice. It’s about equity. It’s about making sure no child or young person is left behind because the system wasn’t built to include them. When advocacy is done right, everyone benefits—especially the young people who need us most.

The journey matters!

In advocacy, the process can sometimes be as powerful as the outcome. Children and young people may not always get exactly what they asked for—but the experience of being listened to, believed, and supported is profoundly transformative.

Belinda Lorek and Jodie Evans have been advocating for children and young people, in various roles across multiple sectors for many years and share their thoughts;

“We know that too often, systems and services expect clients to adapt—to mould their needs to fit into fixed structures and eligibility criteria. But we believe it’s the systems and services that need to change to meet people where they are. Even when we’re not sure we can change the outcome, we still show up. We still speak up. Because every young person ought to have their voice heard—and to know they’re not alone.”

This kind of advocacy builds trust, self-worth, and hope. It sends a powerful message: Your needs matter. Your voice matters. You matter.

For vulnerable children and young people, advocacy can be the difference between falling through the cracks and getting the support they need to thrive. It’s how they gain access to:

• Safe, stable housing
• Inclusive, accessible education
• Timely and respectful healthcare
• Safety from harm and discrimination
• Adults who listen and act in their best interests

Even when the outcome isn’t perfect, the act of advocating—of standing alongside someone and amplifying their voice—can be a turning point. It restores agency, builds confidence, and lays the foundation for lifelong resilience.

So, let’s keep showing up and speaking out.

Systemic change doesn’t happen overnight. But every act of advocacy—every conversation, challenge, and refusal to stay silent—moves us closer to a fairer world.

If you’re a social worker, teacher, counsellor, healthcare provider, carer, or community member, know this: your voice matters. Keep showing up for the young people who need you. Keep challenging injustice. Keep pushing for better, more compassionate systems and services.

“When we advocate, we are not just changing outcomes, we are changing lives, and as difficult as it may be at times, it is always worth it”, Belinda and Jodie.

Belinda Lorek and Jodie Evans continue to advocate for the rights and best interests of children and young people in various contexts, in their current roles and beyond. If you would like to learn more about them head to Consultancy | Project 18 is a space that welcomes all people.

If you are looking for advocacy support here in South Australia:

Advocacy organisations in South Australia – Advocacy for Disability Access and Inclusion Inc.

For more reading about advocacy, in various contexts, check out:

10 Reasons Why Advocacy is Important: Essential Guide

Every Voice Matters: The Importance of Advocacy | Early Childhood Education Journal

The Importance of Advocacy in Mental Health