Young Canberra Citizen of the Year 2020
Rose Clifford wasn’t Canberra born and raised but is proud to call the national capital home after relocating here at the start of her high school years. Following her own struggle with an eating disorder throughout university, the 25-year-old is now an advocate for young people’s mental health. She was recently named Young Canberra Citizen of the Year 2020 for the work through MIEACT, designing and delivering mental health programs to high-school children. Amid this, Rose splits her time between volunteer work in the Lifeline Canberra call centre, researching for her PhD and tutoring at the Australian National University. When she’s not striving to make the world a better place, she lives with her soon-to-be husband Alister and their two King Charles Spaniel’s Winston and Charlotte, spending her downtime baking and dreaming about travel.
MY DOGS, WINTSON AND CHARLOTTE
Animals are one of the best mental health support networks and my dogs are no different. When I am at my worst they are by my side, when I feel alone they snuggle up to me, when I need to be heard they put those big ears to use.
MY FAMILY
My parents literally saved my life. They stuck by me when I pushed them away and gave me the strength to keep on fighting for myself and others who need. My husband to be loves me despite my difficulties and makes me a better person just by knowing him.
MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY
Ever since I was little I had always stood up for others when they couldn’t for themselves. Through my advocacy work in mental health, I am able to do just that in an area I am passionate about. Helping others find their own voice and strength is incredibly fulfilling.
TRAVEL
Exploring and experiencing other cultures is an amazing thing. The world is filled with such diversity in people, cultures and landscapes. I’ve only just started seeing it and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of seeing this beautiful world. I just might have to wait a little longer.
BAKING
Baking for me is a stress release. As an anxious person I can get very overwhelmed by uncertainty and disorganisation. Baking is simple, has step by step instructions, is scientific and has a predictable outcome. This give me the chance to let go of all my anxieties and relax.
