African Youth Collective
African Youth Collective community members together
AOD & Mental Health Services

Mental Health and Wellbeing at African Youth Collective

A Community Approach to Supporting Our Young People

At African Youth Collective (AYC), we understand that mental health is an important issue affecting many young people and families within our communities.

500+Young People Supported
10+Years in Community
4Core Service Areas
3Melbourne Suburbs Served
African Youth Collective community mental health walk

Who We Are

Our Philosophy

At AYC, we believe that many of the challenges facing young people today are not simply mental health issues. They are often issues of disconnection — from Family, Community, Culture, Identity, Purpose, Positive role models, and Healthy social environments.

Before many young people need therapy, they need connection. They need people who understand them. They need a place where they belong.

Culturally responsive AOD and mental health support
Community-led programs grounded in African values
Safe spaces for young people to connect and heal
Qualified practitioners with lived community experience

What We Offer

Building Stronger Minds. Stronger Communities. Stronger Futures.

B-MAD — Beyond Mental-health Alcohol and Drugs

B-MAD Prevention

Our flagship framework addressing Belonging, Meaning, Achievement and Direction — the foundations of mental wellbeing for African youth.

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Mental Health First Aid

Culturally adapted Mental Health First Aid training delivered within the African community context, building local capacity to respond.

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NDIS Support

Registered NDIS support services delivered in partnership with Mulusew Pty Ltd, providing culturally safe disability support for participants.

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AOD Programs

Community-based alcohol and other drug prevention and early intervention programs embedded within our recreation and social programs.

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B-MAD · Sports & Recreation

Connection is the Foundation of Wellbeing

Before many young people need clinical intervention, they need connection — to family, culture, community and purpose. Our weekly sports and recreation programs create the conditions for young people to thrive.

About B-MAD
AYC Saturday soccer programAYC Saturday basketball programAYC Monday Family Games NightAYC community mental health walk
AYC community BBQ gatheringAYC Monday BBQ community eventAYC Sunday BBQ community gatheringAYC Foods for Thought program

Foods for Thought

Sharing Food. Building Community.

Food is one of the most powerful ways to build trust, reduce isolation, and celebrate culture. Our Foods for Thought programs bring African youth and families together every week through shared meals, community BBQs, and culturally affirming food traditions.

Foods for Thought

Our Branches

Specialised Programs for Every Community

AYC's branches address specific community needs — from disability inclusion to women's empowerment and youth arts.

AAAA albinism awareness community program

Africa Australia Albinism Awareness

AAAA

Supporting young people living with albinism through advocacy, community awareness and culturally safe inclusion programs.

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Sisters by Roots women empowerment program

Women & Girls Empowerment

Sisters by Roots

A dedicated program for African women and girls — building sisterhood, leadership and resilience through culture and community.

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The Viibe Family music and arts program

Music, Arts & Entertainment

The Viibe Family

Harnessing the power of music and creative arts as a pathway to wellbeing, expression and positive identity for African youth.

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Volunteer

Give your time and skills to support African youth in your community.

Volunteer with AYC

Student Placements

Complete your professional placement with a leading community organisation.

Apply for Placement

Donate

Your support funds vital AOD and mental health services for African youth.

Make a Donation

Get in Touch

Contact Us

Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Empowered.

Whether you're seeking support, looking to refer a young person, or want to get involved — we'd love to hear from you. Our team is here to help.

Address

309A Main Rd E, St Albans Victoria 3021, Australia

Crisis Support

If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support:

Send Us a Message

We'll respond within 1–2 business days.