Craig de Beer

In my role leading a team of peer supporters at the Otago Mental Health Support Trust (OMHST), we spend our days alongside people navigating their hardest moments. We advocate with them and support them to take those first, often terrifying steps toward recovery.

Abseiling is my version of a nightmare. The idea of being suspended on a cord and losing all sense of control makes my palms sweat. But many of the people we support don’t have the luxury of choosing their comfort zone. They show incredible courage every day just to navigate life. If they can face those hurdles out of necessity, I can certainly face abseiling by choice.

I’m stepping off the platform to raise funds for Otago Polyfest. While my daily work is with OMHST, I know that Polyfest is just as vital for our community. It’s about belonging, identity and the strength of our rangatahi.

If I’m asking others to be brave, I need to be willing to find that bravery myself. Thank you for supporting me.