Inspiring Brighter Futures For Townsville Youth

An inspiring presentation by former Townsville local, Dr Glen Richards, about his journey from local beginnings as a veterinary surgeon to leading global enterprises has capped off a successful fundraising breakfast in Townsville for the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation.

Glen is a founding managing director of ASX-listed Greencross Vets, and a former Shark Tank investor. These days, he is a company chair, professional investor, and mentor, and is passionate about supporting and mentoring young people.

In total, around $30,000 has been pledged, with special thanks to Cherish the Children for matching on-the-day donations, thereby doubling the local impact of every contribution.

The donations will enable the Foundation’s Onwards & Upwards programs to continue to inspire participants to envision, plan, and achieve a more fulfilling, balanced, and brighter future.

Glen provided an outline of his journey, including his observations of the traits of successful entrepreneurs, to becoming successful in terms of social and financial measures.

Our Emcee for the event was Glenn “Minty” Mintern who guided the morning with warmth, energy, and humour.

Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation founder and CEO John Godwin thanked all involved for the success of the event and is delighted with the program’s continuing results in the Townsville region, and is looking forward to expanding its programs.

The eight-week Onwards & Upwards mentoring program, making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth, is being delivered in Townsville by community leaders and volunteer mentors to students at Heatley Secondary College, Pimlico State High School, Townsville State High School and Northern Beaches State High School.

The Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation is holding over 80 programs in 2025 in Queensland, focusing on its core groups of young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

The Foundation welcomes new mentors. To register your interest and to find out more, please visit inspiringbrighterfutures.com

You can make a general donation to Inspiring Brighter Futures and know that you’re directly improving the well-being and future of people in our community who need it the most.