Motiv8 - African Youth and Police Project
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Overview
Motiv8 was a six month African youth and police project using basketball and other types of recreation to increase engagement with African youth in the city of Adelaide. The project was conceived by African youth in the community and delivered through Multicultural Youth South Australia Inc (MYSA).
What were the aims of the project?
The aims of Motiv8 were to foster respect, understanding and acceptance between African youth and South Australia Police (SAPOL). Using basketball sessions and other recreation activities, Motiv8 succeeded in increasing friendships and support networks by getting young Africans to engage with the wider community. It also helped build self esteem, self-confidence and personal resilience.
Another aim of Motiv8 was to help the youth gain a greater understanding of Australian law and the responsibilities of all young people in Australia. It also helped many participants take control of their lives through education and social interactions.
What was involved?
Motiv8 involved 14 basketball sessions, six recreation activities such as swimming, karaoke, bowling and eight life-skills workshops. The highlight at the end of the project was a basketball tournament with police.
Creating an environment where young people were able to engage and interact with the police through sport and recreation provided a safe and friendly environment to build rapport and trust, which is vital for these young people.
MYSA also conducted six training sessions for SAPOL to provide cultural information about African youth. The sessions were co-facilitated by an African youth leader, which helped create greater understanding on both sides.
Motiv8 was funded by the Adelaide City Council and was held in 2008.
Who participated?
More than 750 African youth participated in the program as well as SA Police officers.
What were the outcomes?
Motiv8 promoted harmony, respect and cross-cultural understanding between the young African participants and SAPOL. It created a sense of safety, through positive and visible interactions between the two groups. One of the ways this was achieved was by mixing basketball teams of police officers with the African youth.
Motiv8 also succeeded in increasing reciprocal understanding and acceptance between African youth and SAPOL and built relationships in the process.
Where can I get more information?
Further information on this project is available.
Helena de Anstiss
Director Multicultural Youth SA Inc
Telephone: 08 8212 0085
Email: helena@mysa.com.au
South Australia Police
Website: South Australia Police