African Youth Collective
African Youth Collective team together

B-MAD Framework

Stronger Minds. Healthier Choices. Connected Communities.

African Youth Collective creates culturally safe spaces where African young people and families can connect, grow and thrive. Through B-MAD, sport, mentoring, community meals and family activities, we strengthen mental wellbeing, increase awareness of alcohol and other drug harms, and build pathways towards brighter futures.

500+Young People Supported
2020Founded in Melbourne
4Core Service Areas
3Melbourne Suburbs Served
African Youth Collective community mental health walk

Who We Are

Connection changes what is possible

At AYC, we believe many challenges facing young people begin with disconnection — from family, community, culture, identity, purpose, positive role models and healthy social environments.

B-MAD is our community-led framework: Beyond Mental Health, Alcohol and Drugs. It builds Belonging, Meaning, Achievement and Direction through practical, culturally safe pathways.

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

Programs built around connection

B-MAD Framework — 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.

Learn More

Mental Health First Aid

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

Learn More

NDIS Support

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

Learn More

AOD Programs

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

Learn More

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

AYC Family Connect

Bringing Families Together

Strong families build strong communities. AYC Family Connect creates safe, joyful spaces where African families can come together — through games, shared activities, and the kind of connection that keeps young people grounded and supported at home.

AYC Family Connect
AYC Fun with Families board games night

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.

Learn More
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.

Learn More
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.

Learn More

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.