COMMUNITY Fathers launched a game-changing education-based initiative known as EmpowerU at the Austerville Community Hall on April 23, drawing a crowd of prospective parents, mentors and locals. The initiative aims to mentor local youth to enrol for tertiary education and restore faith and optimism in the community.

Also read: Community Fathers empowers future career seekers

EmpowerU, the brainchild of Community Fathers founder Darian Smith, is not just application support. Smith said it involves mentorship, parent education, school partnerships and a disciplined, structured path to academic success.

“EmpowerU sparks hope in Wentworth. It’s not just about taking kids to university, it’s about changing the narrative of our community. This is not just about helping children apply, it is about disrupting a pattern. We are saying enough, enough with believing we are not good enough and enough with waiting for help from outside. We are the help, and it starts now,” said Smith.

The launch ceremony was a celebratory occasion for the residents, who came to the educational support session in record numbers for the first time. There were charged emotions as members of Community Fathers shared personal testimonials and emphasised the programme’s vision to address key issues like school dropouts, gang activity and drug abuse, by reaching out early to young people.

“Too many of our children have lost their way on the streets,” says Trevor Skippers, a Community Fathers member. “This programme is not a handout. It’s a hand-up. It’s us saying to our young people, ‘You matter. We believe in you. Let’s do this together.’”

The launch created a rush of interest from local high school learners, particularly matriculants, most of whom have already begun engaging with mentors in order to acquire knowledge about university life, student funding and career advice.

“We are building a culture of excellence, not dependency,” said Karl Smith, another founding member. “These children are not charity cases; they are future leaders.”

Mentor Allan Holmes also added that the power of the programme lies in its community involvement. “When a parent shows up, it sends their child the message they are supported. When a community shows up, it sends the world the message we are taking charge of our future,” said Holmes.

Community Fathers invites more parents, young adults and teachers to become part of the programme as it builds steam.

For further information, contact Darian Smith on 084 4321 972.

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