John is an independent youth advocate and an Ambassador for Alannah and Madeline Foundation. He campaigns to spread the anti-bullying, health and well-being message on a global scale. He is actively involved with communities on all levels, from schools to universities doing research into the epidemic as well as groups lobbying to government. Making impact internationally, John is taking the message to all corners of the globe, being relied on as the link with overseas charities such as The Trevor Project in the USA and the Anti-Bullying Alliance in the UK.
John's passion and commitment to the cause has created a large network of people working together to stop bullying and promote health and well being.
John's Experience with Bullying
As a victim of bullying throughout his childhood, John is passionate about educating youth on the affect a bully can have on a person. Speaking through his own journey, he presents to large groups with an anti-suicide message – proving that you can come out the other side stronger than ever. John released a book, Full Throttle (www.fullthrottlebook.com), in early 2013 revealing his upbringing and the emotions he experienced in order to spread the anti-bullying message."With such a struggle growing up, people often become bitter with their lives, but not John. He has worked so hard to make a difference to his life and the lives of anyone he meets. John’s work with youth is so important and he has inspired me to stand up & help where I can." - David Hunt, Joy 94.9
Australian of the Year Victoria 2014
John has been recognised for his work as an anti-bullying campaigner. The Australian of the Year Award celebrates the achievement and contribution of eminent Australians by profiling leading citizens who are roles models. They select people who inspire through their achievements and challenge people to make their own contribution to creating a better Australia. Read more"John has been a strong voice reaching so many with the work he does with anti-bullying. I read his book which proves that against extraordinary odds & hardship that young people can push through & not only survive but become leaders. Johns success alone is inspiring but his passion for charity especially encouraging & helping the youth of Australia & helping to fight the increasingly dangerous bullying epidemic is deserving of accolades" - Charlotte Dawson
Anti-Bullying Advocate
John is an independent anti-bullying advocate that campaigns to spread the anti-bullying message on a global scale. He is actively involved with communities on all levels, from schools to universities doing research into the epidemic as well as groups lobbying to government.Making impact internationally, John is taking the message to all corners of the globe, being relied on as the link with overseas charities such as The Trevor Project in the USA and the Anti-Bullying Alliance in the UK.
John's passion and commitment to the cause has created a large network of people working together to stop bullying.
"I'm totally blown away at what you have achieved! Many people would have given up, you endured a lot of pain and suffering yet you turned that around and you really empower so many people with sharing your experiences." - J. Sahay
Alannah and Madeline Foundation
John says “I feel truly humbled to be a voice for The Alannah and Madeline Foundation, advocating for everyone in the community to take a stand against bullying. A life free from violence is every child's right and I am so proud to support such a worthy cause." The Alannah and Madeline Foundation is delivering best-practice prevention programs in one in four schools across Australia that are helping to reduce the incidence of bullying and cyberbullying, including:- Better Buddies - reducing the incidence of bullying by creating friendly and caring primary school environments. The program will engage more than 135,000 primary school children this year.
- eSmart Schools - addressing online safety and cyberbullying by guiding schools to develop a culture where everyone uses technology in a smart, safe and responsible way.
