KCYP volunteer leaders
Volunteer
Kokoda Challenge Youth Program
MENTORING LOCAL KIDS
The Kokoda Challenge Youth Program has been the Kokoda Youth Foundation’s flagship program since its inception in 2005. Although the program has evolved over the years to better equip today’s youth with the tools to face challenges, the values remain the same: inspiring local kids to persevere through adversity using the values of the Kokoda Spirit – courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice.
KCYP relies on volunteer leaders to mentor young people through their journey of tackling the 96km Kokoda Challenge, embarking on a peak experience in Malaysia, and engaging in community service. You will be there to guide the Kokoda Kids every step of the way.
Applications for our 2025 KCYP Leaders is open – submit your application now!Â
Team building at Camp Kokoda
The program begins with a 2-day adventure camp at Camp Kokoda, our outdoor education facility in Mount Maroon. This is where the kids and your fellow leaders will get to know each other through activities like the giant swing and high ropes course, designed to push you out of your comfort zone and learn about group dynamics.
Applications for our 2025 KCYP leaders is now open – submit your application below!
The 96km
Kokoda Challenge
After the adventure camp, the team will dive into the training plan for the 96 km Kokoda Challenge, known as Australia’s toughest team endurance event. This will include weekly bushwalks through some of Southeast Queensland’s most stunning hikes, building strength and fitness to get ready for this unique experience.
Applications for our 2025 KCYP is now open!
The trip of a lifetime
After completing the Kokoda Challenge, the team will begin training for the peak experience, which will include the Sandakan Memorial March in Malaysia. The Sandakan Death March was a series of brutal forced marches committed against Australian and British prisoners of war during World War II in Borneo. The prisoners were held in a camp in Sandakan and subjected to harsh conditions, including disease, starvation, and mistreatment. This trek will follow their footsteps.
This trip will also include a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where a number of orphaned orangutans are cared for and white water rafting down the Kiulu River.
Applications for our 2025 KCYP Leaders is now open!
Community service
You will engage in regular community service activities, including helping Sea Shepherd put an end to polluted beaches, assisting disability workers on days out in the surf with Disabled Surfers Association, and volunteering at the Gold Coast’s Raw Challenge (followed by completing the course!). This is an opportunity for the Kokoda Kids to learn the importance of giving back and making a valuable impact in their community.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to volunteer at our Kokoda Challenge events, browse available roles and apply here .
What to expect
Mentor local kids in the community
Give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of young people.
Meet likeminded volunteers
Form friendships with other volunteers that will become lifelong friends.
EXPERIENCING HISTORY AND CULTURE
Keep experiencing history and culture
Hike the 96km Kokoda Challenge
You'll conquer Ausralia's toughest team endurance event alongside your group
GAIN NEW SKILLS AND LEARN HISTORY
Keep gain new skills and learn history.
GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY
Keep giving back to our community.
All expenses paid
Entry into The Kokoda Challenge, your trip to Malaysia and even your trekking pants and shirts will be covered.
About
Our People
The Kokoda Youth Foundation is a locally operated charity that has proudly supported Australian young people and their local communities for more than 19 years. Our experiential youth programs help young people gain physical and mental resilience, confidence, and instill in them Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice through the story of the Kokoda Campaign in 1942. These programs are run solely from donations from generous Australians, just like you.
