March 18, 2025

Prioritising Our Team’s Health: Youth Lab enroll in Shade Skin’s #ThrowShade Initiative 

Written by Ash Post

At Youth Lab, we know that a great workplace is more than just professional development and career growth – it’s about fostering a culture of wellbeing, where both mental and physical health are prioritised. One way we can support our team’s long-term physical health is by taking proactive steps to prevent skin cancer.

The Reality of Skin Cancer in Australia

Skin cancer is a major health issue in Australia, with two in three Australians diagnosed in their lifetime. It’s common, yet highly preventable, and early detection is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes. Unfortunately, busy schedules and the demands of everyday life often push health priorities to the side, and regular skin checks can be easily overlooked. That’s why Youth Lab is proud to join the #ThrowShade initiative in partnership with Shade Skin Cancer Medicine.

Why Shade Skin? A Passion for Prevention

Dr. Kate Jameson, co-founder of Youth Lab and Shade Skin, has always been passionate about skin health and the role of prevention in combating serious illnesses like skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is one of the most preventable diseases, yet it continues to affect so many Australians. I started Shade Skin because I wanted to make early detection more accessible, improve the service delivery and remove barriers to care. If we can catch it early, we can save lives.”

Prioritising Workplace Wellness

With that same commitment in mind, Dr. Kate ensured that the entire Youth Lab team was signed up for the #ThrowShade initiative.

“As a business owner, the team’s health is our responsibility. I want them to feel valued, supported, and cared for, not just in their careers, but in their overall wellbeing. It’s a simple but meaningful way to invest in their health and encourage other businesses to do the same.”

Investing in a healthy team means looking beyond the workplace. Mental and physical health go hand in hand, and when businesses prioritise preventative healthcare, they foster a culture where employees feel empowered to take charge of their wellbeing. Routine skin checks are a small but important step that can make a lasting impact.

Free Skin Checks and Raising Awareness

Through the #ThrowShade initiative, Youth Lab team members receive free full-body skin checks, ensuring they have easy access to lifesaving early detection. But this initiative is about more than just individual health – it’s about raising awareness.

That’s why we’re also committed to the Awareness Commitment, a ‘Pay It Forward’ approach that asks every partner organisation to spread the word about the importance of skin cancer prevention. Through a simple blog post like this coupled with a social media share, it raises awareness and helps amplify the message. It costs an organisation nothing, just help us raise awareness.

Join Us

We hope that by leading the way, we help other businesses and organisations to take proactive steps in supporting their teams. If you’re a business owner, we encourage you to integrate skin health into your workplace wellness programs. A simple skin check could make all the difference.

To learn more about Shade Skin Cancer Medicine and how your business can get involved in the #ThrowShade initiative, visit Shade Skin Cancer Medicine today. Together, we can make prevention the norm and ensure a healthier future for all.