We can all make a difference, and there’s no greater example of this than local musician, Luke Owens.

A familiar face in the community—and BSSC alum—Luke shared his story with Year 11 Literacy students this morning; highlighting the power of standing up for something you believe in.

In 2012, after Luke had graduated from BSSC and was pursuing his dream of becoming a teacher, Luke had a conversation with 9-year-old Molly, whose family was homeless. That conversation changed everything.

Molly’s story affected Luke and lit a fire in him to use the skills he possessed to do something to help people like her.

“There’s a lot of hidden homelessness in our country,” explains Luke. “Just because you don’t see something, doesn’t mean it’s not happening.”

Luke explained to today’s audience that 94% of homelessness in Australia is classified as either secondary or tertiary homelessness—and doesn’t necessarily fit the picture of what we think ‘being homeless’ is.

After learning more about the topic, Luke decided he would stand up and try to make a difference.

“I thought, ‘maybe I’m the one to do something to help her’.”

Banding with other passionate people, the pre-service teacher established the Bendigo for Homeless Youth (BFHY) charity in 2012 set the huge goal of raising $100,000 to help families like Molly’s, who are homeless.

Not only did Luke and his team hit that target, but the project caught the attention of countless Australian businesses and figures—including the legendary Myer family—who pledged their support, and together with BFHY raised half a million dollars.

Luke was awarded the 2013 National Pride of Australia Young Leader medal and was named a finalist in the 2014 Young Australian of The Year awards for his efforts to create positive change.

Today Luke encouraged BSSC students to think about what they’re passionate about and the change they wish to see in the world.

“You’ve got to ask yourself, ‘Can I be the one to do something?’”, he says. “You are all in a position to be able to make a difference in the world.”

If he could go back and give his 18-year-old self some advice, it would be this:

“When the task seems too overwhelming, simply remember WHY you started.”

Luke hopes students will take away three key points from his visit today.

“Standing up starts with one decision. Homelessness is more than what you simply ‘see’. And you have more power than you think you do.”