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In a recent conversation, school speaker and coach Cameron Parker sat down with Matthew Popo, a passionate pastoral leader and community engagement specialist. Known by many as the young people’s champion, Matthew brings a wealth of frontline experience, working in schools, and within communities to support and uplift the next generation.
Their discussion was real, raw, and rooted in purpose. They spoke about the responsibility we all have to step up for our youth — not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. Young people are facing challenges now that require more than just traditional support. They need connection. They need consistency. And above all, they need champions.
One of the most powerful moments in the conversation came when they spoke about accountability — especially the courage it takes to apologise when we get it wrong. Whether you’re a teacher, mentor, parent or coach, there will be times you misread a situation or respond in the wrong way. That’s part of being human. But owning it, being real about it, and showing young people what humility looks like — that’s where the growth happens.
Matthew and Cameron also acknowledged something many in youth work rarely say out loud: you won’t reach everyone. Sometimes, no matter how much you care or how hard you try, you lose students. And that hurts. But those moments don’t mean you failed — they remind you why the work matters. For every young person who slips through the cracks, there are others who cling to your words, your presence, your belief in them.
This isn’t easy work. But it’s necessary. Because our young people need us — not to be perfect, but to show up, speak truth, and never stop trying.
Thank you to our sponsors – Edurio – Access Education – Gadget Line Films – Dreams 2 Reality
Check out Matthews work here –> https://www.wethnk.com/
Please Don’t Quit! Our Young People Need Us with Matthew Popo
