Each year, all students in Year 8 at West Moreton Anglican College participate in a Leadership Challenge; taking just $10 to fund a venture to benefit the greater community.

As part of this challenge, student Josiah Jensen thought carefully about who he wanted to support and selected Mates4Mates.

Mates4Mates supports current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members and their families who are wounded, injured or ill as a result of their service.

Josiah chose this charity as his family have a strong affiliation with the military.

“I have always admired this charity and the difference they make in the Defence community”, Josiah said.

Josiah set up a Go Fund Me account and leveraged off social media to raise funds for the charity. He committed himself to hike 10 kilometres up Mount Mitchelton.

“The hike was a lot harder than anticipated, but it was for a very good cause so it was worth the heat, and the blisters”, he said.

“The challenge was an invaluable experience and I am ecstatic to have raised $1060.”

Mark Thomas, Physical Activity Coordinator at Mates4Mates, said that Josiah’s fundraising was a great example of the difference that one person can make.

“This money will provide over 10 sessions with a psychologist, which will alleviate the financial burden of treatment for a family”, Mark said.

Jenny Sheehan, the College’s Defence Transition Mentor said the College is very proud of Josiah for supporting a cause which is close to his heart.