KCYP volunteer leaders
Volunteer
Kokoda Challenge Youth Program
MENTORING LOCAL KIDS
become a KCYP leader and change young lives for good
The Kokoda Challenge Youth Program (KCYP) has been Kokoda Youth Foundation’s flagship program since 2005. The program has evolved over time to meet the needs of today’s youth, but the values remain the same: changing young lives through the Spirit of Kokoda and the embodiment of courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice. KCYP relies on volunteer leaders to mentor young people through their nine-month journey. This includes tackling the 96km Kokoda Challenge, embarking on their peak experience in Malaysia, and engaging in community service. As a valued volunteer, you will help guide our Kokoda Kids every step of the way.
Volunteering as a KCYP leader is a big commitment but provides an even bigger reward. You get to see the transformation of young people firsthand as you watch their confidence grow, and see them reach their full potential. This journey is unlike any other and must be experienced to be fully understood.
“What I didn’t realise when I first started on this journey was that working with these amazing young adults would turn out to be one of the most rewarding & humbling experiences I have ever had.” – Rodney, Kokoda Challenge Youth Program Volunteer Leader
Applications for our 2026 KCYP Leadership roles are now open
YOUR COMMITMENT TO SUCCEED
- 9-month commitment (May 2026 – Jan 2027)
- Weekly weekend hikes (20-22 walks total)
- Mid-week fitness sessions (18-20 sessions in total)
- Fortnightly community service (Oct 2026 – Jan 2027)
- 10-12 day peak overseas trekking experience in Malaysia. Fully funded!
- Must hold a valid Blue Card
Team building at Camp Kokoda
KCYP begins with a two-day adventure camp at Camp Kokoda, our outdoor education facility in Mount Maroon. This is where the new cohort and leaders get to know each other through activities such as the giant swing and high ropes course, designed to push you out of your comfort zone and learn about group dynamics.
Applications for our 2026 KCYP Leadership roles are now open
The 96km
Kokoda Challenge
After the adventure camp, the team will dive into the training plan for their 96km 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 prepare physically and mentally for this unique experience.
Applications for our 2026 KCYP Leadership roles are now open
The trip of a lifetime
After completing the Kokoda Challenge, the team begins training for the peak experience, which includes 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, as well as white water rafting down the Kiulu River.
Applications for our 2026 KCYP Leadership roles are now open
Community service
The final community service phase of the program is a highlight for many as our Kokoda Kids learn the importance of giving back and enjoy making a valuable impact in their community.
The Kokoda Challenge is the ultimate test, and the peak experience is the ultimate adventure, but there’s nothing quite like the feeling of helping charities who are making a positive impact on local lives.Â
Community service activities may include:
- Helping Sea Shepherd eliminate beach pollution
- Assisting the Disabled Surfers Association and their disability workers during their beach days
- Volunteering at the Gold Coast’s Raw Challenge event (followed by completing the course!).
If you’d like 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 20 years. Our experiential youth programs help young people increase their physical and mental resilience, confidence, and instil the Kokoda values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice through the story of the Kokoda Campaign in 1942. These programs are offered free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our supporters.
