Testimonials
Sam Weily, Psychologist – Melbourne Indigenous Transition School (M.I.T.S)
"I had the chance to join a One Percent Program session aimed at connecting male First Nations students with their family and the men in their lives. About 30 of us gathered at Lee Point Beach, where Dante and Jahdai set up music, food, and exercises to foster our strength through connection. Their culturally sound activities helped us connect with ourselves and each other. After 2 hours, the vibes were high, and students were buzzing about it for days. One student even commented that it was the best session he has ever had. I highly recommend the One Percent Program and look forward to working with them again!"
We interviewed a 14-year-old male participant after attending our One Percent Better Communities session delivered in April 2023. He shared his reflections on the importance of resilience and self-awareness, stating:
"In today’s session, we learned about discipline and learning that life is going to be tough, but it’s not always going to be the worst. Life will always improve. Nothing stays the same."
Having attended several sessions in the community, he continued:
"I think it gives me a real good model of a good man or a good human being, you know? It just gives me a standard that I look up to. What I enjoyed most was just settling down and talking about feelings and life because I think it’s really meaningful and important."
When asked how he first heard about the program, he said:
"My mum signed me up for it. She thought it would really help, and, you know, after coming to it, I fully agree—it has really helped. Well, before coming, I always felt tired, I liked to sleep in a lot. But, you know, it’s been good. It’s been something that’s been getting me out of bed on the weekends instead of just, you know, sitting on my phone all day. So, I think it’s really good, and it’s keeping me active as well, doing all the exercise."
When asked if he would typically participate in something like this if the program didn’t exist, he replied:
"No, definitely not. I would usually be at home playing games, sleeping, or eating. So, I think that this is very good for building community, building connections, because, you know, men have committed the most suicides if you look at the statistics. And I think it’s really important to get a community of men together who will always support each other, who are strong together, and who will always encourage each other."
“As someone over 40, mental health wasn’t something we talked about growing up. We were raised to just tough it out, but that only gets you so far. When I joined the One Percent group, I was hesitant, but it was so welcoming. I found myself opening up to complete strangers, and they were opening up to me. It helped me rediscover my path, my direction, and my inner self. I’ve taken so much from this experience. The best 2 and a half hours I have spent on myself for a long time… Lots of personal reflection, emotion and growth. Looking after your mental health isn’t a weakness, it’s one of the most important things you can do for yourself.”
-One Percent Program Participant
"The YBMen program, led by Jahdai and Dante, has truly been a turning point for me. Their work and presence at our school inspired me to prioritise my wellbeing. Physically, socially, and mentally. I'm especially grateful for Jahdai’s powerful speech on Monday morning; hearing his story was insightful and deeply motivating. Thank you both for everything you're doing!"
-YBMEN Program Participant
"The activity was amazing! I loved how the session mixed exercise with genuine connection, it was such a great way to connect with the team differently. The One Percent team were super friendly and facilitated the session incredibly well."
-One Percent Program Participant