Dr Leon Stensholm

Mental health advocate and founder, Lookout 07

2025 QLD Australian of the Year Nominee

After losing his brother, Dean, to suicide, Dr Leon Stensholm knew there was a desperate need for change in his community on the Sunshine Coast. 

He became an advocate in the mental health space and in 2023 opened Lookout 07 – a safe and accessible haven for young people aged 12-25 that helps to transcend isolation by fostering connection and supporting physical, mental and social wellbeing. 

The centre, which has had over 6,500 youth sign in, provides recreational facilities such as a gym, table tennis and pool tables alongside resilience programs and crisis counselling. Leon is on the ground in the centre each day, mentoring and providing an empathetic ear to anyone who needs it, driven by his sense of purpose in ensuring that no young person feels alone with their struggles.  

For his dedication, Leon was recognised as Citizen of the Year at the Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards in 2024.