Ambassador Profile: tayla harris
Hi, I’m Tayla Harris.
Hi, I’m Tayla Harris. I have played in every season of the AFLW since its inception in 2017, I’m also a professional boxer and have won Australian Female Middle and Super Welterweight Boxing titles. I’ve been honoured to represent my sport as a four-time All-Australian team member, mark of the year winner and most memorably a premiership player for the Melbourne Demons, I also was named Victoria’s Young Australian of the Year in 2021.
But beyond the accolades, there’s a deeper story - one that brings me to this moment and why I’m incredibly proud to be an ambassador for LifeChanger.
I believe in the power of mental fitness, the strength in community, and the potential of every young person to rise above their challenges and step into who they were always meant to be.
What were you like as a kid growing up?
''Growing up, I was always that sporty kid. Competitive, driven, and curious, I was never afraid to push myself to the limit. I thrived in environments where I could move, challenge myself, and learn. I had a strong circle of friends, supportive coaches, and mentors who saw my potential before I even knew what that meant.
But like many young people, I also faced my fair share of inner battles. There were times of self-doubt, moments where I didn’t quite feel like I fit in. And back then, mental health wasn’t something we really talked about not in the locker room or not at school.''
WHO WAS IN YOUR CORNER WHEN IT CAME TO TALKING ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES?
''Luckily, I had people in my corner. Through sport, I found a place to express and release those feelings. I had mentors who didn’t always have the answers but who knew how to listen - and that made all the difference. Over time, I learned the power of self reflection, grounding myself in routines, and staying connected to my “why.” Those practices still anchor me today.''
What was the mental health stigma like when you were growing up compared to now?
''The conversation around mental health has come a long way, but we still have a long road ahead. Today’s generation faces constant pressure: online comparison, climate anxiety, unrealistic standards, and a world that never stops. It’s no wonder mental health and self-esteem are more fragile than ever.
That’s why I believe in mental fitness. Just like I train my body, I train my mind. It’s part of the toolkit I carry with me every day - resilience, focus, self-awareness, and compassion. It’s not about perfection. It’s about staying in tune with who you are and where you’re headed.''
WHY I CHOSE TO BE LIFECHANGER?
''When I attended LifeChanger’s TRIBE fundraiser last year, I was blown away by the energy, the heart, and the purpose behind the work they do. I knew in that moment that I wanted to be a part of something that actually makes a difference in young people’s lives.
LifeChanger isn’t just a charity. It’s a movement. They create safe spaces for young people to explore who they are, build confidence, develop mental fitness, and connect with mentors who truly care. They equip the next generation with the skills and self-belief to thrive, not just survive."
If you want to explore more about LifeChanger’s community events and initiatives, there are many ways to get involved and support the movement.
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO SUPPORT YOUNG KIDS?
''Young people today need our support more than ever. Not just in words, but in action. They deserve to be seen, heard, and believed in. LifeChanger creates that reality and that’s why I’m here.
I’m lucky to have a platform. I want to use it to make positive change, to help create those moments of clarity, confidence, and connection for someone else.
If I could leave one piece of advice to the next generation, it would be this: Stay curious. Learn from the stories of others. Ask questions. Listen deeply. Your growth will be limitless if you stay open to learning."
