Meet Katrina Bushnell, Fortem Activities Officer
Young Voices. Leading Change.
Behind every first responder is a family with its own experiences, perspectives and understanding of what first responder life can look like.
For children and young people growing up in these families, those experiences can shape their lives in ways others may not always see or understand.
Now, Fortem Australia is looking for young people ready to share their perspectives, with applications open for our new Youth Ambassador program.
The national search is open to young people aged 12–23 with a strong personal connection to the first responder community, giving them an opportunity to have their voices heard, build new skills and help other young people from first responder families feel seen, heard and understood.
For Fortem Children and Family Ambassador Piper Johnson, finding her voice started when she was still in primary school.
As the daughter of a firefighter, Piper chose to use a school speech competition to talk about an experience she knew well: her own.
‘I chose to speak about my unique perspective as a young child of a firefighter, discussing how my home life was different than my friends,’ Piper said.
That decision ultimately led Piper to Fortem, where she has been an Ambassador since 2021 and has continued to advocate for greater recognition of the experiences of children and families who support first responders.
‘Being a Fortem Ambassador is really important to me, because it means I can bring my unique perspective,’ Piper said.
Fortem’s Youth Ambassador program will create opportunities for more young people to do the same, bringing their own ideas, experiences and perspectives to the conversation.
A chance to speak up, connect and grow
Youth Ambassadors will have opportunities to share their perspectives, represent Fortem through community events, campaigns and selected speaking and media opportunities, and contribute to Thank a First Responder Day® 2027.
Along the way, they will be supported to develop skills in leadership, advocacy, media and public speaking, while connecting with other young people who understand first responder life.
No previous leadership, media or public speaking experience is required. Fortem is looking for young people who care about the first responder community, have ideas to contribute and are interested in making a difference.
Training and ongoing support will be provided by Fortem, with opportunities tailored to each Ambassador’s interests, confidence and experience.
Could you be a Fortem Youth Ambassador?
Applications are now open to young people aged 12–23 with a strong personal connection to the first responder community.
Whether you’re a young person interested in applying, or you know someone who could bring a valuable perspective to the role, we’d love to hear from you.
Applications close 1 October 2026.
Learn more about the Youth Ambassador search and apply here.