At the end of August, Firefly’s Youth Connector, Kasey Henshaw, proudly represented the Bay and Basin community at the National Leadership Forum in Canberra. Over four inspiring and action-packed days, Kasey joined young leaders from across Australia for a program filled with learning, reflection, and connection — including visits to Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, a games afternoon, and hands-on community service.

Of all the speakers, Maeve Slonim had the greatest impact on Kasey. Maeve began her talk by admitting she was experiencing imposter syndrome and didn’t feel she belonged on stage, an honesty that stood out among the many confident leaders who spoke.

“Her vulnerability resonated deeply with me,” said Kasey. “It reminded me that leadership doesn’t mean being without doubt — it means showing up authentically, even when you don’t feel completely confident.”

That insight struck a chord, especially for Kasey as she continues to develop her own leadership style and guide young people through programs like Youth Voice and Youth Crew.

Across every session, Kasey noticed a common thread among the speakers: audacity.

“Each leader had the audacity to try, to fail, to risk judgment, and to keep going anyway. I realised that audacity, especially in women, is often misunderstood, but it’s essential for leadership. It’s what drives people to take bold action and create change.”

Representing Firefly and the Bay and Basin community was a highlight for Kasey.

“Every time I spoke about Firefly’s work, people were genuinely inspired,” she said. “It was rewarding to see how much interest there was in the ways regional organisations like ours empower young people. I felt so proud and I think that passion came through in every conversation.”

During the forum’s community service activity, delegates rolled up their sleeves to help residents in a local ACT neighbourhood tidy their yards. The experience left a lasting impression.

“It reminded me that leadership isn’t always about public speaking or big decisions. It’s about serving others, quietly and humbly. True leadership can be as simple as helping someone without expecting anything in return.”

This experience reinforced a concept Kasey plans to bring back to Firefly Servant Leadership: leading from a place of service and community care, rather than recognition.

When asked what advice she would give to other young people stepping into leadership, Kasey shared this message:

“Don’t doubt your ability to lead because of your age. If you care about others, take initiative, and act with integrity — you are already a leader. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about showing up with courage and compassion. Be bold, be audacious, and take up space unapologetically.”

One of the most rewarding parts of the forum was connecting with other young leaders from around the country. Despite differences in background and experience, Kasey found one powerful common thread — curiosity.

“Everyone was so eager to learn, grow, and embrace the experience. That shared curiosity made it easy to form genuine connections and meaningful friendships.”

Reflecting on her four days in Canberra, Kasey summed it up perfectly:

“My time at the forum left me exhausted but deeply inspired. It reminded me that even when I don’t always see myself as a leader, I am one — through guiding young people and advocating for change in my community. I’m so proud of what Firefly stands for, and I’ll share that story any chance I get (even while scrubbing a stranger’s deck during community service!).”

We’re so proud of Kasey and all that she brings to Firefly. Her energy, curiosity, and commitment to community embody what Youth Voice is all about, learning, leading, and lifting others up.