Empowering the youth of Kowanyama in 2023

In 2023, we visisited the remote community of Kowanyama in Queensland's North East. The volunteer driven trip engaged with the local community providing activties and programs to enhance self-efficacy, develop social and emotional skills, and promote positive relationship-building methods to the towns young people.

Volunteers facilitated a colour-run, fishing activties, school based AFL clinics and a junior AFL competition.The AFL tournament allowed young people to compete in the "Fitzroy Greenwool Cup" named after the local Kowanyama man who now resides in Cairns and is dedicated to giving back to his local community.

Whilst the Kowanyama young people experienced great joy in the program, outcomes consistent with improved social and emotional welbeing were delivered during the week long experience.

These included:

Enhancing Self-Efficacy: Helping young people believe in their ability to achieve goals and handle life's challenges.

Developing Social and Emotional Skills: Teaching emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication.

Promoting Emotional Intelligence: Enabling young people to understand and manage their emotions better.

Implementing Conflict Resolution Strategies: Equipping youth with tools to resolve disputes peacefully.

Building Positive Relationships: Encouraging the formation of healthy and supportive relationships.

Our Commitment

At Thrive & Connect, we are committed to creating a lasting, positive impact on the lives of young people in Kowanyama, Cairns and Far North Queensland. The Kowanyama program is more than just an intervention; it is dedicated approach to empowering young people, fostering resilience, and nurturing a sense of purpose and belonging. We believe that with the right support and guidance, every young person has the potential to thrive and make meaningful contributions to their community.

The success of this trip reinforced our belief in the power of community and the positive impact of our efforts in which we look forward to continuing, with community support, in September 2024.