Young Minds, Stronger Communities – Inside the ideas2Life Program
Integra had the pleasure of opening our doors (and our meeting rooms) to 44 enthusiastic Year 9 students from Damascus College and Mt Rowan College as part of Crazy Ideas College’s ideas2Life program. The day was filled with creative thinking, problem solving, and energetic collaboration as students began the planning phase for bringing their community projects to life.
This event marked another milestone in Integra’s five-year partnership with Crazy Ideas College, a relationship built on a shared commitment to community connection, sustainability, and tackling real-world challenges such as homelessness.
“We continue to be inspired by the ingenuity and optimism of young people when given the tools and space to act on their ideas. Ideas that often align with the issues we care deeply about as a business. That’s why we love being part of the ideas2Life program and our ongoing partnership with Crazy Ideas College.” Matt McCabe – Integra, General Manager
A Day Designed for Creativity and Growth
The day began with student teams sharing a snapshot of their project ideas (concepts they had developed during the Social Innovators Program earlier in the school term). These short presentations gave the room a taste of the big issues these young leaders were passionate about solving.
Then came a hands-on team challenge: the marshmallow challenge. Each team was given limited materials and time to construct the tallest freestanding tower that could support a marshmallow on top. But there was a twist: they had to “pitch” their case to our Integra team members to earn more building supplies.
While the task was light-hearted and fun, it held important lessons. The challenge helped students practise key skills like clear communication, time management, resilience, teamwork, and thinking on their feet when things didn’t go to plan—all essential qualities for turning community projects into real-world action.
The rest of the workshop was focused on the 9 teams continuing to develop and refine their project plans.
Here’s a snapshot of just some of the inspiring community initiatives put into action on the day:
Seedlink Aus
This project brings together students, families, and neighbours to replant indigenous flora in bushfire-affected areas. More than just a planting day, it’s a movement focused on healing the land, restoring biodiversity, and rebuilding community through shared action.
School Sounds Festival
A celebration of music without the pressure of competition. This idea brings bands and solo artists from different schools together to perform, support one another, and grow in confidence. The event focuses on collaboration over rivalry, and fosters a sense of musical community.
Floating Farms for Schools
By helping local primary schools create vertical gardens, this team is transforming empty walls into vibrant, productive green spaces. These living classrooms teach students about sustainability, healthy eating, and biology, while also providing fresh herbs and vegetables for school meals.
Adaptable Learning Buddies
Designed to ease the transition into high school, this idea pairs Year 9 students with Year 7s to co-create learning activities for core subjects. The buddy system supports peer-to-peer learning, builds leadership skills, and fosters a collaborative learning environment where students grow together.
Opening Our Doors, Supporting Big Ideas
Integra was proud to not only support this program but to host the event in our own offices. It was an honour to share our workspace with these young changemakers and a valuable opportunity for them to see what a professional environment looks and feels like.
Our staff enjoyed connecting with the students, hearing their ideas, and contributing to their learning journeys.
“It was such a pleasure meeting the young people and hearing their great ideas… Really enjoyed doing the challenge with them and was impressed by the level of professionalism that these young people have. I’m sure we will see these community projects come to life!” Kate Brandenburg – Integra Property Manager
The ideas2Life program is just one example of what’s possible when young people are trusted with real-world problems and supported by engaged partners. Integra remains committed to backing these opportunities – not just because they align with our values, but because they produce meaningful, lasting impact in our communities.