Local Mentors Help Shape Tomorrow’s Leaders at Cleveland District State High School

Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation’s Onwards & Upwards program is building self-confidence in a cohort of young men at the Cleveland District State High School through the efforts of a fantastic group of volunteer mentors.

Founder and CEO John Godwin has been the facilitator of this program this term, being run at Cleveland District SHS for the first time.

“One of the standout outcomes has been seeing the growth in confidence of these Year Eight and Nine students,” Godwin said.

“This cohort is being supported by an incredible group of volunteer mentors, almost all new to the Foundation and recruited through a simple Facebook community post.

“Every one of them brings warmth, patience, and genuine care to the room, and the boys are responding beautifully.

“With focus, encouragement, and one-on-one support, they’re already showing just how much they can grow. We’ll now be working closely with these emerging young leaders to begin shaping their own vision statements as they prepare for graduation from the program.”

The group had a special presentation from guest speaker Tim Franklin, the eighth person in history to run around the world, the second fastest, and the fastest Australian to ever do it. Franklin spoke with the boys about taking a vision (Our Why), turning it into actionable goals (Our What), and understanding the people who will help or hinder along the way (Our Who and Who Nots).

Godwin said that the Foundation was introduced to Cleveland District State High School through the efforts of Amanda Stoker MP and was delighted with the early achievements to date.

A fun and hands-on presentation to the group was made by Curtis Innes, whose father, Robert, has a complete set of Olympic torches that spans all the way back to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The students enjoyed holding them and learning about their place in Olympic history.

Onwards & Upwards is the flagship self-development program of the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, designed to empower young people and adults in need.

In 2025, the Foundation is delivering more than 80 programs across Queensland, focusing on three core groups: young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

The Foundation welcomes new mentors. To register your interest or learn more, visit inspiringbrighterfutures.com.

You can also make a donation to Inspiring Brighter Futures, knowing your contribution directly improves the wellbeing and future of those in our community who need it most.

ENDS media enquiries to Brenton Gibbs 0419 828440 [email protected]

Robert Innes son Curtis who presented the Olympic Torches