Take it to the Streets, a sports and mentoring initiative, is rolling out across Brisbane’s north, building on its success in communities statewide, including the Gold Coast.
The program provides free training in 3×3 basketball, 3v3 soccer, pickleball, Boxfit, and Esports for young people aged 13–18. Delivered by MADE Concepts, it aims to empower at-risk youth with confidence and better life choices.
Sports have the unique ability to break down barriers and foster positive engagement for youth facing challenges.
Acting Inspector Lester Brooks explained, “By giving them activities and helping them make better choices, we’re always going to be able to get some better outcomes for them as they grow older.”
The program’s success in places like Logan, the Gold Coast, and Toowoomba highlights its ability to meet local needs where access to regular sports activities is limited.
“We take these programs to the young people and communities where this engagement is needed or required, and we’re able to engage the community in profound ways,” said Project Lead Deola D’Brown.
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130+ young people have participated across Queensland so far.
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An average of 22 participants per session ensures meaningful interaction.
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The program has reached over 2,000 participants statewide through Queensland Government-supported activities, including in the Gold Coast, Townsville, and Toowoomba.
Take it to the Streets activitie
The impact is personal. Formerly reserved participants are now stepping into leadership roles. “We’ve had some young folks who were not able to speak confidently when we started this program, now they’re down there on the mics! They’re MCing the programs and calling out scoreboards,” said D’Brown.
Supported by the Youth Development Partnership Fund, a collaboration between the Queensland Government and Queensland Police Service, the program promotes physical and mental wellbeing while reducing antisocial behavior.
With activities scheduled for Bracken Ridge, North Lakes, and Chermside in the coming months,
Take it to the Streets continues to expand, delivering its mission of community connection through sports.
For more information, visit the Youth Development Partnership Fund or MADE Concepts.