Breaking Bad star RJ Mitte is in Wollongong for Illawarra’s Top Model final to help focus the spotlight on mental health.
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Mitte is also in Australia speaking on topics such as bullying and telling everyone who will listen how impressive Towradgi’s Kirra Jones is being in fashion shows in Europe.
Jones is also home for Saturday’s final and the Highlights on Mental Health Ball on October 17.
Mitte said what she has achieved in a few months is amazing.
She is planning to take him to the beach in Wollongong but he is using much of his time to send some very important messages.
As as an infant he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and bullied at school.
Now he does whatever he can to help remove any stigma associated with handicaps.
He launched his own anti-bullying foundation called Cut The Bull and is supporting the Light & Hope Mental Health Clubhouse because he is aware of the difficulties people with disabilities or mental health issues can face.
He arrived at the start of Mental Health Week and is speaking at Sydney Opera House on Monday.
“But this weekend I am here in Wollongong bringing awareness with Illawarra’s Top Model which has a highlight on mental health,” he said.
“That is really important because mental health is something that effects us all. We need to bring awareness because people don’t always acknowledge it as a serious thing. We need to be able to lift people up..to not be intimidated by their own fears.”
Mitte and Jones model with CORE Artist Management, run by Paul James Hay, who is offering the major prize for Illawarra’s Top Model.
Mitte likes working on campaigns such as Highlights on Mental Health because of their impact.
What the models are doing is really important.
“We need more people who are willing to speak up,” he said.
“We are not meant to ignore the sick and people who need help. We are meant to help lift them to a higher level. It starts not just with awareness but action.’’