The Shaka Project

Supporting someone does not always come down to knowing the right thing to say. Often, it comes down to knowing when to ask again.

When someone is asked, “Are you okay?”, the first response is often automatic. A quick reassurance. “Yeah, I’m fine.” It is usually the second question that creates space for honesty and allows a real conversation to begin.

That simple idea sits at the heart of The Shaka Project.

Igniting the Conversation

The Shaka Project is a mental health charity built on the belief that everyday conversations can change outcomes. Founded with a clear and deliberate purpose, the organisation focuses on helping people feel more comfortable starting conversations about mental health and reminding others that support is there when it is needed.

As Shaka ambassador Harry explains, “We were founded with one goal. Ignite the conversation.”

The idea began with a moment many people recognise. One person checking in on another with a simple “All good, bro?”. That small, everyday gesture became the foundation for an approach centred on connection rather than complexity, and prevention rather than crisis.

By making conversations easier to start and safer to have, The Shaka Project helps people feel less alone, often well before they reach a breaking point.

Small Signals, Real Impact

For Shaka ambassador Harry, these conversations are part of everyday life. Whether through delivering workshops, visiting communities, or simply wearing the Shaka symbol as a visible invitation to talk, the aim is always the same. To lower the barrier to asking a question and to make it easier for someone to answer honestly.

These small signals can have a real impact. They create moments where conversations begin naturally, without pressure or judgement, and where support feels accessible rather than intimidating.

Supporting Conversations Where They Happen

This month, Cars for Good supported The Shaka Project with a $1,000 donation.

The donation will help fund free mental health and suicide awareness workshops delivered to schools, sporting clubs and workplaces. It also supports Shaka’s ability to travel and reach communities in and around Brisbane, ensuring these conversations happen where people already gather and feel comfortable.

The organisation was nominated by a member of the easyauto123 Hendra team who had seen the impact of Shaka’s work firsthand. It was a reminder that meaningful support often starts locally, with people recognising good work and choosing to back it.

Quiet Support That Keeps Good Work Moving

Not every act of support is visible, and not every moment of change is dramatic. Sometimes support looks like asking a question and taking the time to listen. Sometimes it means asking again. And sometimes it means standing behind the people who help those conversations happen every day.

That is what this Cars for Good donation represents. Practical support for an organisation focused on connection, understanding and early intervention, delivered one conversation at a time.