Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA)
SALSA Regional
At HealthWISE we’re dedicated to creating healthier communities. That’s why we are delivering the SALSA Regional program. We’ve teamed up with experts from the Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU) to bring SALSA Regional to New Engalnd North West NSW. The pilot was made possible by the NSW Government’s ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program, and partnerships with the University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health and five local high schools.
What is SALSA?
Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA) is a peer-led mentor program designed to motivate students to increase physical activity and improve diet. It empowers students to become leaders and make better choices for their health. SALSA prepares students for the future through practical experience in communication and leadership.
It encourages high school students to lead healthier lives. SALSA shows how physical and mental health go hand in hand. Feeling good in your body and mind helps you do better in school and work. It’s like one friend inspiring another friend to choose a nutritious snack instead of junk food.
Why is SALSA Important for Rural Communities?
Rural and regional communities often face unique health and employment challenges. SALSA Regional plays a crucial role in addressing these issues by promoting health and wellbeing among young people, regardless of their socio-economic status. The program equips high school and university students with valuable work-ready skills like leadership, teaching, communication, and team building.
It encourages high school students to lead healthier lives. SALSA shows how physical and mental health go hand in hand. Feeling good in your body and mind helps you do better in school and work. It’s like one friend inspiring another friend to choose a nutritious snack instead of junk food.
Want more information?
For more information, please contact Sarah Dean at sarah.dean@healthwise.org.au