Writen by Melanie Borlace, Mission Australia
Mission Australia recently held a ‘Personal Development’ program that aimed to boost self-confidence and resilience in local youth.
The program was attended by both males and females, and covered topics such as self-defence, strengthening exercises, anxiety education, post-traumatic stress disorder, cultural dogma, and martial arts philosophies.
It was developed due to a group of girls from the Youth Connections program ‘Girls Group’ identifying the need for further self-development and practical skills.
Whyalla Judo Club was kind enough to host the self-defence classes and facilitate the black belt instructor and mental health lecturer, Kieran Turnball. The program was also supported by Michelle Cholodniuk of Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia..
“The classes – while being about serious content – were a lot of fun, and the feedback received from the young people has been very positive,” said Melanie Borlace Mission Australia Case Manager.
Melissa Marks, who attended the program, was so impressed with the self-defence classes she has now joined the Whyalla Judo club and hopes to further herself within the sport of Judo.
“The program has helped me find my inner peace,” said Miss Marks.
Mission Australia has been impressed with the success of the program and hopes to deliver it again in the near future. For more information, please contact Mission Australia Whyalla on 8645 6900.