Sian Palmieri

Australian Mental Health

Advocate of the Year

Sian Palmieri is a passionate mental health advocate and Program Coordinator for Anglicare’s Suicide Prevention for Seniors Program. With a background in psychology and lived experience following the loss of her grandfather to suicide, Sian has dedicated her career to improving mental health outcomes for older Australians. She has trained thousands of people nationwide, equipping communities and professionals with the skills to support older adults at risk. Sian has been featured in national media and conferences, known for her heartfelt storytelling, evidence-based insights, and commitment to reducing stigma and ageism in suicide prevention.

SchoolTV 
Australian Mental Health

Organisation of the Year

SchoolTV is transforming mental health support in schools by equipping families and educators—not just professionals—with accessible, expert-backed content. With reach across 1,000+ schools in Australia, NZ, and the UK, it addresses issues from anxiety to digital safety. Recently, SchoolTV launched multilingual wellbeing videos to support CALD communities, breaking down language barriers and stigma. By offering culturally relevant, inclusive education, SchoolTV improves mental health literacy and access for diverse communities—making mental health education truly universal and empowering for all.

Hrishikesh Hariharan

Australian Mental Health

Volunteer of the Year

Hrishikesh is a remarkable young man who shows every day that true strength lies in embracing one's uniqueness. As a dedicated volunteer with the Mental Health Foundation Australia, his genuine kindness and enthusiasm create a lasting impact in every role he takes on. He brings the same dedication to his work at Wallara Logistics and in the Chisholm TAFE canteen, where his reliability and positive attitude make him a valued team member. Outside of his work, Hrishikesh prioritises his well-being through regular gym sessions and nurtures his passion for music through Mridangam classes, connecting with his cultural roots. Hrishikesh's story is a testament to the strength of neurodivergent individuals and their invaluable contributions to the world.

Toby Warwick

Australian Mental Health

Youth of the Year

Toby has been nominated for the 2025 Mental Health Youth Award in recognition of his strength, resilience, and commitment to personal growth. He embodies what it means to accept a diagnosis with courage, using it as a foundation for stability rather than a limitation. Whether attending support groups, volunteering in the mental health space, or being a positive influence on his peers, Toby consistently demonstrates unwavering determination and a drive to create better outcomes—not only for himself, but for those around him.

Murali Kumar 

Australian Mental Health

Musician of the Year

Murali Kumar is a renowned violinist and founder of Raaga Sudha School of Carnatic Music, one of Australia’s leading institutions for Indian classical music. With over 30 years of international performance experience, he is celebrated for his mastery in both Carnatic and Hindustani styles. Murali has nurtured generations of talent, regularly presenting innovative concerts and collaborating with global artists. His music is known for its purity, emotion, and technical brilliance. As a performer, mentor, and cultural ambassador, Murali continues to elevate Indian classical music in Australia.

Suzette Buchanan

International Mental Health

 Advocate of the Year

Suzette Camile Buchanan is a mental health advocate, CEO of Bellevue Hospital Jamaica, and host of the groundbreaking TV series MindSet. With over 14 years in governance and leadership across health, media, and public service, she’s driven national reforms and challenged mental health stigma through storytelling and policy. A Harvard trainee in Mental Health Leadership, Suzette blends strategic vision with lived experience and compassion. Her work spans boardrooms to communities, always putting people first. She’s a mother, communicator, and changemaker reshaping mental health conversations in Jamaica and beyond.