Meet Youth Advisory Group member Jarrod

The Youth Advisory Group (YAG) is a new initiative that provides very special siblings between the ages of 14 to 25 a platform to be heard. The group is made up of nine enthusiastic, motivated, and inspiring young adult and adolescent siblings eager to express their thoughts and ideas in bold, creative ways.  YAG has been made possible thanks to the generous support of the Freemasons Foundation. 

In this series, our Youth Advisory Group members have interviewed each other to learn a bit more about their day-to-day life experiences and time with Very Special Kids.

Meet Jarrod, interviewed by fellow Youth Advisory Group member Callum. 

First Question, what is your name, age and current year level?
My name is Jarrod, I am 19 years old and am currently studying a dual diploma of Sports Development and Leadership Management at Swinburne’s ‘Richmond Institute’.

Would you want to talk about your sibling and their life? 
My sister’s name is Emma McKee. Emma was diagnosed at birth with a rare form of epilepsy which has left her unable to communicate, and with high needs. She also has the most amazing red hair! 

Now what is a fun fact about yourself? 
Well, on some of my past Very Special Kids trips and camps, I have become the camp riddler, as I’ve collected riddles from my past experiences and continue to confuse others around me to date!

What would you say to other Very Special Kids adolescents thinking about coming along to an adolescent activity? 
I would say give it a try! The atmosphere of being around others in similar situations is extremely humbling and can help you feel at ease over a topic which can cause us all so much stress! The people, environment, history and culture that the Very Special Kids adolescent program has created is inspiring, humbling, yet outstandingly unique. You’re missing out if you don’t!!