Backing Young Men Early: Expanding Our Work Across South East Queensland

At Top Blokes, we’ve always believed in one simple idea — if you get in early and back young men with the right support, you can change the trajectory of their lives.

That’s why we’re proud to be expanding our mentoring programs across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, reaching more young men at a critical stage — before issues escalate.

With support from the Queensland Government’s Kickstarter initiative, we’ll deliver 31 group mentoring programs, supporting more than 370 young men aged 10–17, alongside ongoing support for their families and communities. This week we stood alongside Minister Gerber, Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, to announce Top Blokes as the 50th Kickstarter program.

Backing what works

Top Blokes has been delivering long-term, evidence-based mentoring programs in communities across South East Queensland for years — working alongside schools to support young men in navigating pressure, building emotional awareness, and staying connected.

This investment allows that work to go further.

Top Blokes Head of Programs, Amy Harvison, said the focus remains on early intervention.

“This funding is about backing young men early — giving them the tools, support and guidance to make better decisions and stay connected in school and their community.”

Real conversations. Real impact

Through weekly sessions led by qualified Youth Workers, young men explore real-life topics like mental health, peer pressure, relationships, and risk-taking—building the confidence to make choices they’re proud of. The program also extends beyond the classroom, engaging parents and trusted adults through the Top Blokes Supporters Program to reinforce learning at home and strengthen communication.

Stronger connections, better outcomes

Top Blokes’ approach focuses on what sits beneath behaviour—helping young men understand their emotions, manage pressure, and respond differently in challenging moments.

The results speak for themselves:

  • Young men report improved decision-making and greater awareness of risk
  • Many say they’ve learned how to manage conflict without violence
  • Participants feel more connected, more confident, and more positive about their future

Youth Worker and Mentor Bailey Hoare said the change is visible on the ground.

“When young men are given the space to open up and the right support around them, they step up—for themselves, their mates, and their community.”

Top Blokes believes young men are not the problem — they’re a key part of the solution.

By investing in connection, leadership, and decision-making early, programs like this help create a ripple effect — stronger individuals, stronger communities, and better outcomes for everyone.