When the Darkness Closes In: Why My Team and I Are Walking for Suicide Prevention
On 14 September, my team and I will be walking 9 km through Kings Park, Perth. It’s a beautiful place to spend a Sunday, but this walk isn’t just about fresh air and exercise — it’s about saving lives.
This year, our steps will be dedicated to a man who inspired thousands — Kerwin Rae. I had the privilege of attending many of Kerwin’s courses over the years, learning from his wisdom. His energy and insight helped shape the way I approach business, leadership, and life.
When the news of his passing broke less than a year ago (18th October 2024), I was stunned. Speechless. Heartbroken.
Kerwin was charismatic, capable, and deeply inspiring — the kind of person you believed could overcome any challenge. But mental health does not discriminate. It can touch the lives of even the most resilient, skilled, and seemingly unshakable among us.
And that’s the reality we can’t ignore: if it can happen to someone like Kerwin, how much harder must it be for those with fewer resources, less knowledge, and little or no support network?
Mental health is real — and the statistics are sobering
In Australia, 9 people die by suicide every day. Around the world, more than 700,000 lives are lost each year — that’s one person every 40 seconds.
These aren’t just numbers on a page. Each represents a person with dreams, relationships, and a life full of potential — now gone. The impact ripples through families, friendships, workplaces, and communities.
The power of walking together
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of community. Mental health struggles often live in silence, hidden behind smiles or busy schedules. But when we walk together — literally and figuratively — we break that silence.
Walking as a team sends a powerful message: You’re not alone. We’re here. We see you. Your life matters.
It also shows that collective action has strength. A single voice can start a conversation. A united team can help shift culture, raise awareness, and fund resources that save lives.
Why we’re walking
For us, this walk is more than charity. Yes, the funds we raise go directly to life-saving suicide prevention services — and yes, all donations over $2 are tax-deductible in Australia.
But for our team, it’s also an act of paying it forward. It’s about taking the lessons we’ve gained from mentors like Kerwin and using them to protect others from reaching that darkest place. It’s about showing up for the people who can’t. It’s about turning grief into action.
How you can help
You can join us in making an impact:
Donate — every contribution matters and helps fund critical support services.
Share our message — your network may have someone who desperately needs to see it.
Reach out — start the conversation with someone who may be struggling.
To those who’ve already donated — thank you. Your generosity is hope in action.
On Sunday, we’ll walk for Kerwin.
We’ll walk for the 9 Australians who won’t see tomorrow.
We’ll walk for everyone still fighting silently.
And we’ll walk believing that, together, we can turn pain into purpose and darkness into light.
💙DONATE HERE https://www.outoftheshadowswalk.org.au/fundraisers/ThePowerHouseGroup
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out:
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14
Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
