Mr Kropinyeri is well known for his comedy but says when it comes to suicide; Australia is dealing with a hidden tragedy.
“For those who are thinking about suicide as an option, I know what it’s like, because I’ve been there and I think for me a problem shared is a problem halved,” says Mr Kropinyeri.
Mr Kropinyeri admits to attempting suicide on more than one occasion, but says his own personal experiences are what drive him to be role model for his people.
This is why the he joined forces with the 'No Laughing Matter' Comedy Gala this year.
“It was something I wanted to be involved in to raise awareness of suicide in this country, and laughter is such good healing for our people,” says Mr Kropinyeri.
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The event hosted in conjunction with Suicide Prevention Australia aims to educate and help the community on how to support themselves and others.
Young Aboriginal people have the highest rate of suicide in the world, with one in every 24 Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders committing suicide each year.
In some communities, the rate of suicide is up to 100 times the National average.
Mr Kropinyeri says surrounding yourself with trusted people is the key to healing and prevention.
“Finding the right people, aunty uncle or elder, or someone in the community that you trust, that you can talk through some issues, really helped me. There’s nothing now that can really shake me from my journey. I’m on my journey and I’m so focused on what I want to achieve. You can throw anything at me now and nothing can knock me off my track," says Mr Kropinyeri.
