Member feature written by Connie Eugenio
Australia is facing a silent epidemic that affects millions: loneliness. One in three Australians report feeling lonely some or all of the time, a stark increase from pre-pandemic levels. But in the heart of Toowoomba, one remarkable organisation has found a powerful solution.
Since 2017, You Belong has been a beacon of hope for refugee communities, offering programs that empower, uplift, and—perhaps most importantly—connect. Through a unique blend of purpose and compassion, You Belong has created a space where individuals, whom they lovingly refer to as Waymakers, can find not just support, but true belonging.
The term Waymakers honours the courage and and purpose of those individuals who embark on the journey to a new place, giving them dignity and ownership over their own journey.
I had the pleasure of speaking with You Belong’s Director of Programs, Kelsey, whose passion is evident from the moment she begins to speak. When asked what she loves most about her role, her answer was simple, heartfelt, and revealing: “Friendships, those are my favourite parts of the job.”
She elaborates, “Getting to co-design programs with our Waymaker community is really what’s close to my heart.” This spirit of co-design, creating programs with the community rather than for them is the foundation of You Belong’s mission. It’s about listening, learning, and building trust.
You Belong’s programs are built around three core pillars: Welcome, Connect, and Empower.
One of their flagship events, the Welcome Picnic, is a joyful celebration that brings together new arrivals and local residents. Their Learner Driver Mentor Program supports Waymakers in obtaining driver’s licenses, boosting independence and job opportunities. The Good Neighbour Initiative connects the community through home visits. Cook to Connect unites women from all walks of life through food and shared stories, while EmpowerHER fosters leadership and entrepreneurial skills among Waymaker women. You Belong is even committed to breaking down language barriers by providing English classes.
“These programs move the community forward,” says Kelsey, “but at their heart, I think a lot of our programs are sneakily friendship programs.” She laughs as she says it, but it’s clear she means it. The friendships formed through You Belong’s initiatives are mutual, lasting, and deeply meaningful.
“Friendship goes two ways,” she reflects. “That’s been the joy, seeing locals not only offer support, but find connection and purpose in return.”
What makes this even more powerful is how You Belong addresses not only the challenges of refugee resettlement but the broader issue of loneliness itself.
“I think a lot of our programs are designed with that in mind—that even if you live in Australia and have always lived here, you can be isolated. But if you’ve moved here without family or connections, that’s a particular challenge for our community.”
It’s this awareness that sets You Belong apart: understanding that connection is a universal need, not just a refugee issue.
Kelsey shared something that’s stayed with me:
“I think volunteering has the lovely title of making it seem like you’re giving to others, but really, it’s an opportunity that is good for your heart.”
She is inspired daily by the resilience and warmth of the Waymaker community. “They’re incredibly generous, for people who have lost so much. It’s a joy to be part of their community rather than the other way around,” she adds. “You get much more out of it than you end up giving.”
In a time where isolation and disconnection are increasingly common, You Belong is proving that community, kindness, and co-created friendships can be transformative.
You Belong isn’t just an organisation, it’s a movement. A movement that welcomes, connects, and empowers.
Join YouBelong’s mission to empower waymakers. Head to their website to find out more about how you can get involved as a volunteer.
About Connie
Connie Eugenio is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Business Marketing at QUT.
Did you like this article?