Canteen rangatahi leaders and staff members had the privilege of attending the 2024 AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) World Cancer Congress in Melbourne, Australia, where they presented innovative ideas, networked with global professionals, and shared insights into the unique challenges and needs of rangatahi impacted by cancer. Among the highlights was the presentation of a poster submission on Canteen's new Adventure Therapy programme, ‘Te Haerenga I te Waipounamu, A South Island Journey’.
The programme, aimed at enhancing psychosocial support for young people with cancer, was met with positive feedback, and provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with experts from across the globe. Canteen Aotearoa Youth Worker Leticia Little expressed her excitement: “It was an honour to present the outcomes of our Adventure Therapy programme. I was able to meet and connect with some great people doing amazing work in this space, particularly in Ireland and the USA. These conversations will continue beyond the congress, and I look forward to learning more about how we can grow and develop our programme to better serve AYA’s needs.”
A key theme at the congress was the recognition of a significant gap in services for rangatahi impacted by cancer, particularly outside of traditional medical and oncology settings. Experts from around the world highlighted the importance of providing comprehensive care that addresses not only the physical but also the emotional and social needs of rangatahi. This theme resonated strongly with the delegates from Canteen Aotearoa, reinforcing the value of their work in providing world-class psychosocial support.
“It was so inspiring to be surrounded by a community of like-minded professionals and learn about the incredible research and mahi happening globally,” another Canteen attendee remarked. “It reaffirmed that we are doing excellent work at Canteen and providing invaluable support to young people facing cancer.”
One of the most poignant moments of the congress was hearing from young people with lived experience, including Canteen Aotearoa member and leader, Kya. Her heartfelt contributions not only offered unique perspectives but also reinforced the vital importance of including rangatahi in the conversation about cancer care.
For one youth worker at the congress, the experience was both challenging and transformative: “Being immersed in this environment, surrounded by passionate professionals, and networking with others, has stretched my understanding and expanded my experience. I’m excited to take this knowledge back to our work at Canteen Aotearoa and use it to create life-changing events, camps, and programmes for AYA’s in the future.”
The 2024 AYA World Cancer Congress served as a powerful reminder of the global commitment to improving care for rangatahi impacted by cancer. For Canteen Aotearoa rangatahi and staff, it was an invaluable opportunity to build on their work, connect with international peers, and continue striving to provide the best possible support to rangatahi impcated by cancer.
