The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WBCF) recently celebrated the achievements of 44 graduates from the GOAL Mentoring Program, an initiative aimed at supporting African youth in Melbourne’s western suburbs.
GOAL focuses on helping young people from Melbourne's Inner West, Truganina and Melton regions, build leadership skills, strengthen their cultural identity and develop meaningful social connections.
“Growing up, I rarely saw people who looked like me in spaces of opportunity and it was hard to feel like I truly belonged” said Yahye, a graduate of the program.
“That’s why I applied for the GOAL Mentoring Program—to connect with others who shared similar experiences and to find a sense of community.”
It was the public speaking workshop Yahye found particularly empowering.
“I learned that sharing my story is not just important for me, but for everyone who faces discrimination,” he said.
“The more we talk about our experiences, the more we inspire others to stand up and demand equality.
“Our voices are powerful, and it’s through these conversations that real change begins.”
Amal Hassan-Ali, Multicultural Youth Programs Coordinator at the WBCF, said it was important for the GOAL program to focus on creating connection opportunities.
“We work to provide opportunities that engage the young people in activities that build life skills, re-connect them with their cultural heritage, and foster a sense of identity,” she said.
“We connect the participants with Bulldogs AFL and AFLW mentors, as well as mentors from the community who have walked in their shoes and understand what they’re going through.”
The program also incorporates a series of excursions, giving participants and mentors the opportunity to build life-long bonds with each other.
Cultural activities, such as cooking classes and introduction to an African library allow participants to explore aspects of their heritage that are not covered in mainstream school curricula.
“My favourite part of the program would be when we were cooking and the African library because we don't learn about that type of things at school,” said Achan, another participant.
Ahmed Hasan, CEO of Youth Activating Youth and WBCF board member thanked those for bringing GOAL to life.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all WBCF staff, as well as WorkSafe Victoria, SCI Australia and AYI Australia,” he said.
“Through all your hard work and collaboration we are building a better future for our community.”
WBCF is a nation-leading organisation that uses the power of sport to deliver life-changing programs and create impact that inspires, through a range of social and educational initiatives, from Melbourne’s Inner West through to Ballarat and the South Australian border.
