The Queensland Government’s Youth Justice Kickstarter grants 2024-25

The “Mastering Me” program, submitted by Prosocial Skills Development, partners with Stan Lenoy of Proper Way, a Social worker, Doctoral candidate, and Associate Lecturer in First Nation Studies and Social Work Practice at CQUniversity, who delivers culturally safe mentoring through the “Strong Futures” program.

Other partners include:

PCYC: Youth Support and Pathways Organisation, which provide referrals and venues for participants.

Gurini Pty Ltd: Supports on-country cultural activities like fishing and reef trips.

FNQ Inclusive Experiences: Offers activity-based learning (gym, hikes, kayaking).

Queensland Health and Department of Education (PAWS): Facilitate broader support through professional networks.

Summary of Proper Way and Program Goals/Outcomes:

Led by Prosocial Skills Development, the “Mastering Me” program delivers evidence-based therapies (MRT, CBT, MDT). The program targets 45–50 youth aged 8–17 in Cairns to reduce antisocial behaviour and youth crime through:

Goals: Holistic early intervention addressing cultural disconnection, emotional regulation, and physical wellbeing via mentoring, therapy, and community activities.

Outcomes: Improved emotional regulation, accountability, prosocial behaviours, and community safety, with a 23% aggression reduction (Durlak et al., 2011) and 30% fewer behavioural incidents, measured by Youth Justice tools over 12 months.

Reference

Durlak, J. A., Weissberg, R. P., Dymnicki, A. B., Taylor, R. D., & Schellinger, K. B. (2011). The impact of enhancing students’ social and emotional learning: A meta-analysis of school-based universal interventions. Child Development, 82(1), 405–432.

Culture Heals Connection