From the Students’ Perspective: The Real Impact of Stand Tall

At Stand Tall, we connect with thousands of young Australians through our events. Each event is designed to give students hope, resilience, and belief in themselves.

After every event, we ask students, teachers, and volunteers to share their reflections. Recently, we spent time reading through these responses and were deeply struck by the honesty, depth, and impact in each story.

We want to invite you to do the same. Read through these recent messages from our Sydney 2025 event, and see how genuinely students are impacted, and why these events matter so much.

"I cried throughout the whole thing because I finally felt like someone truly understood me for the first time."

"Stand Tall was one of the best things that ever happened to me. I loved every single speech, every single one inspired me, and I'd do anything to come again and after today I know I'm going to change."

"I often struggle forgiving and making peace. Leila Abdallah's talk inspired me to try and forgive even if it's hard."

"You didn’t just inspire me — you made me feel seen, heard, and understood. I left that event with a whole new perspective, and I can’t stop thinking about how powerful your words were."

"All of the speakers were really inspirational and I had to hold back many tears."

"Jazz made me feel seen and she made me feel like i'm not alone"

"I didn't expect to be brought to tears today, but Michael's journey was so incredibly touching that I did anyways. The speakers were all so passionate and truly, gave me such important info."

"This event was one of the most emotional and helpful events I have been to, not just for dealing with my own issues but for better understanding what my friends and family are going through. Thank you"

"This experience really allowed me to find new ways to look at my life and made me feel grateful for my life experiences."

"Hearing other peoples challenges in life not only made me realise how incredibly lucky I am but has made me admire the challenges and adversity some people have faced and how they not only overcome them but give back too."

"I loved it and want to make change in my school, suburb and country."

"I absolutely loved Stand Tall. It has inspired me to be a better man and not give up. To overcome everything and bounce back. To persevere and reach my dreams."

"To Michael: that standing ovation was well deserved! Me and my seven friends were all in tears along with you, we were moved, honoured to hear your story and were met with an amazing realisation that resilience and perseverance through tough times is a challenge to overcome but should also be a goal we strive for. Thankyou for coming out and speaking to us all truly a memorable day."

"You changed my view on life so much. as a student i can't thank you enough for making me feel so grateful for the life i have and you've inspired me to set out to do what i can too. i've never been this inspired in my life, so please keep inspiring others too!"

"I was at stand tall today and I honestly was so empowered by Michael’s speech today and really touched all our hearts, you have I think changed me and taught me that everything is possible with hope."

"Thank you so much for letting us experience this it was so inspirational and i will carry these quotes/speeches through life."

These messages are just a glimpse of the incredible impact our events have. Each one reminds us why Stand Tall exists: to give young people the tools, perspective, and hope they need to face life’s challenges.

If these reflections moved you, imagine what thousands more could experience with your support. Partner with us, donate, or share our work, and help us reach even more students with these life-changing messages.

Because when we give young people hope, we all benefit from a stronger, more resilient next generation.

Find out more: https://www.standtallevent.com/