In its first year, the Social Change Collective has tackled some of the biggest issues facing New Zealand, ranging from homelessness and domestic violence to flexible working and effective altruism. This event centred on mental health, a social issue that currently has a spotlight shining firmly in its direction. New Zealand’s mental health statistics have been well traversed in the media, yet they are still shocking each time they appear: * New Zealand has the highest youth suicide rate in the developed world * The estimated number of young people experiencing psychological distress has increased from 58,000 to 79,000 in the last year * We lost 606 New Zealanders to suicide last year * All of these statistics disproportionately impact Maori and Pacific communities This event provided an insight into the brilliant work that is being done throughout New Zealand to counteract these grim statistics and an opportunity for willing participants to get involved in being part of that positive change. The event profiled representatives from the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction, Lifeline and the Mental Health Foundation. We were also joined by a special guest puppy! Big thank you to Bizdojo for hosting us and to Wellington City Council for supporting us!