Kokoda Youth Foundation
Our Youth Programs
KOKODA CHALLENGE YOUTH PROGRAM
Kokoda Challenge Youth Program
Aimed at 15-17 year olds, this 9 month life skills program is for teens from all walks of life. It is built around our core values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice, while being focused on training for a peak overseas hiking experience.
Throughout the program, kids are challenged and mentored through weekly endurance hikes and volunteer community service to learn the skills that build personal strength and resilience to help overcome adversity and succeed.
On the Right Track
On the Right Track
On The Right Track (OTRT) is available in select high schools for students aged 13 - 15. This in-school program takes a proactive approach to support at-risk youth, aiming to prevent them from engaging in criminal activities and becoming disengaged from education.
The program runs one day a week and includes three months of training to prepare for the 48km Kokoda Challenge. It aims to foster self-discipline and resilience while helping participants push beyond their personal limits.
Following the training, students engage in three months of community service, giving them the opportunity to build positive connections within their local community.
Digital Detox Program
Digital Detox Program
Our Digital Detox Program (DDP) gives 12-14 year olds the time and space to disconnect from technology and become more conscious of their digital habits.
This fully-funded 8-day camp takes place every school holidays at our outdoor education facility, Kokoda Park, and has proven success for teens who are showing signs of digital dependence.
Through a series of adventure-based activities and educational workshops, participants create healthy new habits and boundaries in order to thrive in a digital world. It also provides parents with input and 6 months aftercare support.
Isurava Regional Reset Program
Isurava Regional Reset Program
KYF's new Isurava Regional Reset Program is a structured, phased intervention for Ipswich and Gold Coast youth aged 8–17 who are at risk of disengagement or justice involvement.
Delivered as part of the Queensland Government's Regional Reset Program, it combines trauma-informed practices, outdoor experiential learning, daily emotional regulation, and goal setting, all in a safe mentoring environment.
This fully-funded program offers a transformative experience with ongoing support for young people and their families.
How We Help
Success Stories
Over the last 20 years, the Kokoda Youth Foundation has proudly supported more than 1,311 teenagers through our locally run youth programs. We have seen huge life transformations, not just in the form of physical fitness but in our participants’ mental resilience, community contributions, sense of purpose, and social connections.
We are proud to share some of their incredible journeys.
Our Partners
SEE OUR RECENT SUCCESS STORIES
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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.
