This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Louisa and Kath, the dynamic duo involved with Hold On to Your Friends, a student-led initiative that’s transforming the culture of safety and care within Dunedin’s vibrant student community. Their mission? To ensure students can enjoy their university experience without compromising safety or well-being.

What is Hold On to Your Friends?
Born out of tragedy, Hold On to Your Friends was founded in memory of Sophia Crestani, a young student whose life was tragically cut short due to a preventable accident at a student party. What began as a response to a devastating loss has now evolved into a proactive movement advocating for safer, more connected student experiences.

Louisa, Kath, and their team believe in empowering students to take ownership of their safety while fostering a culture of support and community care. It’s about balancing the fun and freedom of student life with responsibility and mindfulness.

 Key highlights from our conversation:

• Turning pain Into purpose: Louisa and Kath shared how Sophia’s passing spurred them to address the challenges of student culture head-on. From unsafe party environments to a lack of resources for young adults navigating independence, their initiative fills a crucial gap.
• Making safety cool: They’re challenging the notion that safety has to be “lame.” Through engaging events, open conversations, and practical resources, they’ve shown that looking out for your friends is the ultimate form of care, and it doesn’t mean missing out on fun.
• Community and Collaboration: By partnering with local organisations, the police, and the wider Dunedin community, they’ve proven that teamwork truly makes the dream work. This collective effort is paving the way for a safer, more inclusive student environment.
• Redefining student culture: Their work extends beyond addressing drinking culture. They’re highlighting the many facets of student life, exploring nature, volunteering, building lasting friendships, and creating memorable, meaningful experiences.

What can we learn?
Louisa and Kath remind us that while university life is about freedom and exploration, it’s also about responsibility. Their message is clear:

• Prioritise your well-being and your friends’ safety.
• Advocate for change in your community, no matter how small your steps may seem.
• Recognise that true connection comes from showing up for each other.

Key Takeaway:
“Hold on to your friends, make sure everyone gets home safe, because life is too precious to take for granted. Together, we can create spaces where fun and safety go hand in hand.”

Why you should listen to this episode:
Whether you’re a student, an educator, or someone reflecting on your own community’s safety and care, this episode is packed with insights on how small actions can lead to big change. Louisa and Kath’s passion is contagious, and their story is a testament to the power of community-driven impact.

🎧 Tune in to the full episode on Spotify and YouTube to discover how Hold On to Your Friends is reshaping student culture for the better.

Let’s amplify their message: look out for your friends, foster connection, and be the change you want to see.