In collaboration with partner facilitators, we deliver a trauma-informed boxing, art and wellbeing program designed to strengthen resilience, engagement and social connection for girls and non-binary young people. The program is tailored to support young people who may be experiencing social, emotional or behavioural challenges or disengagement.

BOXING FOR FITNESS AND WELLBEING

Program outcomes:

  • Improved physical and mental health through fun physical activity.

  • Increased student engagement and attendance through a positive, consistent program.

  • Strengthened emotional regulation and coping skills.

  • Development of respectful relationships and pro-social behaviours.

  • Enhanced sense of belonging and connection with peers and mentors.

  • Greater access to resources and support pathways beyond school.

Each weekly (1 – 2 hour) session integrates boxing skills, fitness, group reflection, creative activities and psycho-social education (DBT based ideas). Facilitated by a team with professional expertise and lived experience, sessions create a safe and inclusive environment where students feel supported and empowered. We are flexible on timing, and can deliver sessions during school hours or after school. 

Program package: 8 weeks for $3,000 – includes all facilitation, equipment, and snacks, for groups of up to 10.

Pay it forward model: This project helps to support free community sessions for young women who don’t have the opportunity to access regular boxing classes.

WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?

  • Purpose.

    To provide a trauma-informed, health-based boxing program that empowers disadvantaged young women and non-binary individuals who may be disengaged from education or employment, or at risk of justice system involvement.

    By developing physical fitness, emotional wellbeing, and social connection, the program aims to serve as a pro-social community and provides a sense of belonging for young women.

    The project aims to:

    – Enhance physical and mental health

    – Create social connections

    – Support respectful relationships

    – Promote personal development

    – Facilitate links to resources and support

    – Reduce risk of justice system involvement

  • Background.

    The Fearless Boxing Group is a collaboration between Maryanne and facilitators and participants from The Living Free Project(funding discontinued 2024) who ran a hugely successful and impactful weekly boxing program for disadvantaged young women from 2021 - 2024.

    Maryanne is the powerhouse trainer of our group. Maryanne uses boxing as a tool to build resilience, confidence, and community – particularly among women and young people impacted by trauma or the justice system. Her work is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and a fierce commitment to creating spaces where people can reclaim their power.

    Bree – our project co-ordinator – is a social change maker, creative entrepreneur and an advocate for social justice. With a passion for working with marginalised communities, Bree uses innovative methods to engage, empower, and connect young people with joy.

    Jacinta is a provisional psychologist who works with young women and gender-diverse youth – who are involved in or at risk of entering the justice system. With a commitment to social change, Jacinta creates safe, inclusive spaces where young people feel seen, heard and empowered to explore their strengths.

    Steph is our lived experience co-facilitating boxer. Having been a participant of the program since 2022, she knows first hand the impact the project has. She is the number one supporter of young women joining the groups and welcomes new participants with care, compassion and motivation. She’s the ultimate hype gal.


    * This project has been made possible in the past with thanks to the wonderful people at Igniting Change - a deliberately tiny charity, passionate about sparking big, positive change for people doing it tough in our communities. 

  • Values.

    Empowerment: Cultivating self-confidence and resilience through skill development and personal growth.​

    Inclusivity: Creating a safe, welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of background or identity.​

    Community: Building supportive relationships and a sense of belonging among participants and facilitators.​

    Respect: Honouring each individual's experiences and promoting mutual respect within the group.​

    Wellbeing: Prioritising holistic health, including physical, mental and emotional aspects.​ Development of emotional regulation skills through creativity.

What is a session like?

Frequency: Weekly sessions
Duration: approx 1 hour per session, with snacks
Structure: Below is an example of how the sessions are structured…
Check-in (5 minutes): Welcome participants, check in with how we’re all feeling, discuss any concerns or achievements.​
Warm-up (10 minutes): to prepare the body.​
Boxing Skill Development (30 minutes): Teaching and practicing boxing techniques, focusing on form and control. ​Strength and endurance exercises to build fitness levels.​
Cool-down (5 minutes): Gentle stretching and breathing exercises to promote recovery.​
Group Discussion (5-10 minutes): Reflect on the session, share experiences, and provide psycho-social education.
Extension: Opportunity for creativity activity, where appropriate