The Confit Pathways Mission

At the heart of Confit Pathways lies a resolute mission: to significantly reduce the rate of recidivism among young Australians. Our journey is driven by the belief that employment, education, and the nurturing embrace of a supportive community are pivotal in reshaping the lives of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated youth.

In Australia, the cycle of re-incarceration is a pressing challenge. Astoundingly, 61% of young individuals aged 10-17 re-enter detention within six months of release, with this number rising to 80% within a year. This alarming statistic not only speaks to the personal struggles of these young lives but also highlights a considerable societal and financial burden. The annual cost of imprisonment for a young person in Australia stands at an eye-opening $511,000 – a cost that extends beyond dollars and cents, impacting communities and future generations.

Confit Pathways is committed to breaking this cycle. Our programs are meticulously designed to instill a positive attitude and mindset in young people, focusing on the transformative power of employment and education. By fostering a strong sense of belonging and community, we aim to guide those in our program towards a successful reintegration into society.

Our approach is more than just a strategy; it's a lifeline for many young individuals who are on the brink of losing hope. Through our efforts, we not only aim to reduce the numbers returning to incarceration but also to build a foundation for sustainable, positive change that resonates throughout communities and across generations.

In essence, Confit Pathways is more than an initiative; it's a movement towards a brighter, more hopeful future for young people who deserve a second chance to make a meaningful contribution to society.

Impact and Achievements

A Record of Transformative Success

Confit Pathways is not just about ambitious goals; it's about tangible results. Through our innovative programs, they have forged a path of measurable and meaningful change, impacting the lives of young people and the broader community.

Partnership with UNSW: A Framework for Measurable Impact

‍In the pursuit of efficacy and transparency, they have partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW) to develop comprehensive quantitative and qualitative evaluation methodologies. These methods enable them to measure the impact of programs across several key areas:

• Mental and Physical Health: They track improvements in the mental well-being and physical fitness of participants, recognising these as fundamental pillars of successful reintegration.
• Sense of Community and Support: Their initiatives aim to cultivate a strong sense of belonging and support, essential in navigating the challenges of reintegration.
• Engagement in Education and Employment: They measure how programs help participants pursue educational opportunities and gainful employment, crucial steps in breaking the cycle of recidivism.
• Recidivism Rates: Ultimately, their success is reflected in the reduced rates of re-incarceration among  program participants.

Key Achievements: A Legacy of Change

• Reducing Recidivism: A significant percentage of their program participants have successfully avoided re-incarceration, evidencing the effectiveness of our approach.
• Economic Impact: By preventing re-incarceration, Confit Pathways contributes to substantial cost savings for the government and taxpayers. Considering the high cost of youth incarceration in Australia, our impact extends beyond individual lives to the national economy.
• Personal Transformations: Beyond the statistics, their greatest achievements are seen in the personal stories of change. Young individuals, once caught in a cycle of offending, have found new paths in life through our program—embracing education, securing employment, and rebuilding their lives with confidence and purpose.

The Power of Positive Change

‍The achievements of Confit Pathways underscore our belief in the potential of every young person. Their impact is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of mentorship, education, and community support. As they continue their mission, they remain committed to enriching lives and creating a ripple effect of positive change across society.

Methodologies and Innovations

A Pioneering Approach to Youth Justice

Confit Pathways stands apart in the landscape of youth justice through its unique and innovative methodologies. Their approach is a holistic blend of fitness, mentorship, and continuous support, both during and post-incarceration. This method not only aids in reducing recidivism but also in empowering young individuals with the tools and mindset needed for a positive future.

Three-Phase Program Structure: A Comprehensive Journey

1. Mentorship Through Lived Experience: The first phase of our program is built on the powerful foundation of mentorship. Our mentors are individuals with lived prison experience, offering an unparalleled level of empathy, understanding, and real-world insight. This relatable mentorship fosters trust and encourages open, impactful dialogue, creating a strong mentor-mentee relationship that forms the backbone of our program.
2. Industry Training and Upskilling: In the second phase, we focus on equipping our participants with practical skills and knowledge. This includes industry-specific training and upskilling, preparing them for meaningful employment opportunities upon their release. By providing these skills, we empower our participants to see beyond their current circumstances and envision a future filled with possibilities.
3. Post-Release Job and Education Opportunities: The final phase extends our support beyond incarceration. We assist our participants in securing job opportunities and accessing further education, ensuring that the progress made within the program continues into their everyday lives. This ongoing support is crucial in helping them navigate the challenges of reintegration into society.

Innovative Aspects: Redefining Rehabilitation

• Mentors with Lived Experience: The use of mentors who have firsthand experience with incarceration sets our program apart. These mentors bring authenticity and credibility, offering guidance that resonates deeply with our participants.
• Physical Activity as a Cornerstone: We incorporate rigorous physical training into all aspects of our program. This approach not only improves physical health but also instills discipline, boosts self-esteem, and serves as a powerful metaphor for personal transformation and resilience.
• Continuity of Care: Our continuous support model, which extends beyond the period of incarceration, is pivotal in ensuring the long-term success of our participants. This model helps in maintaining the momentum of change and provides a safety net during the critical phase of reintegration.

Diverging from Traditional Interventions

Contrasting with traditional youth justice interventions that often focus solely on punitive measures or basic rehabilitation, Confit Pathways adopts a more integrative and empowering approach. We address not just the symptoms but the root causes of criminal behaviour, focusing on personal development, skill acquisition, and the building of a supportive community. Their program is designed not just to reform but to inspire and enable a complete transformation in the lives of the young people they serve.

Looking Ahead

Charting the Path Forward

As Confit Pathways continues its journey of transformation and empowerment, their vision for the future is both ambitious and grounded in a commitment to positive change. They are poised to expand our impact, innovate our approaches, and deepen our connections within the community.

Expanding the Reach: Going National

‍A key objective in our roadmap is the national expansion of our program. Recognising the widespread need for effective youth justice interventions, they aim to extend the reach of Confit Pathways across Australia. This expansion will allow them to impact more young lives, bringing their unique blend of mentorship, fitness, and support to youth justice centres in various states and regions.

Forging New Partnerships

‍To enhance the effectiveness and scope of their programs, they are actively seeking to develop new partnerships with educational institutions and employment organisations. These collaborations will provide our participants with a broader range of opportunities and resources, facilitating smoother transitions into employment and higher education. These partnerships are not just about providing opportunities but also about creating inclusive environments that welcome and support those with a history of incarceration.

Enhancing Digital Accessibility

‍In an era increasingly defined by digital connectivity, Confit recognises the power of technology in amplifying our impact. One of our key initiatives is the development of an App, which aims to bridge gaps in mentorship and support. This app will serve as a 24/7 resource for participants, offering access to training materials, motivational content, and a virtual community. By leveraging technology, they can extend our reach, providing continuous support and resources that are accessible anytime, anywhere.

Long-Term Goals: A Comprehensive Support Network

‍The Confit Pathways long-term vision involves not just reducing recidivism rates but also fostering a society where formerly incarcerated youth are welcomed back as valued members. They are committed to building more comprehensive support networks that address the various challenges faced by these young individuals. This includes mental health support, assistance in navigating societal reintegration, and the creation of safe, supportive spaces where they can continue to grow and thrive.

A Future Defined by Hope and Opportunity

‍Looking ahead, Confit Pathways envisions a future where every young person, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to build a positive and productive life. Their ongoing efforts and future projects are steps towards a society where second chances are embraced, and true transformation is possible.

Get Involved

Join Confit Pathways in Making a Difference

Your involvement can make a profound impact on the lives of young people and the broader community. Confit Pathways invites you to be a part of our transformative journey. Whether through volunteering, donating, or mentoring, your contribution plays a vital role in shaping futures and breaking the cycle of recidivism. Contact Confit Pathways by visiting the Contact Us page.

The Confit Gym

Welcome to the gym with a profound purpose—a place where fitness becomes the catalyst for transformation. The gym is located in Parramatta, Sydney.

Confit gym trainers serve as living proof of the limitless potential that arises when individuals invest in themselves. As former inmates, we are dedicated to assisting society in their journey towards freedom through the power of fitness. For them, training became the pathway to freedom while incarcerated—one that broke down the walls that once confined us.  

So what are you waiting for, start your Confit Journey now.

‍Make a Donation

‍Your donations are crucial in sustaining and expanding our programs. Every contribution, big or small, helps us in providing resources, training, and support to young people. To make a donation, visit the donation page, where you can contribute a one-time gift or set up a recurring donation.

Volunteer

Pro bono volunteers are invaluable to Confit. Some of the pro bono assistance they have received to date has been through volunteers from Google (who provide management mentorship) and Atlassian (who have built the website). They would love to hear from you if you would like to get involved. Some of the areas could be (again, are most definitely not limited to):

• Fundraising
• Grant writing
• Technical
• Accounting
• Legal
• Management
• Project management

Express your interest here!

Stay Connected

‍To stay up-to-date with Confit Pathways' progress and achievements by follow YJ:Your Justice. Subscribe here to be a part of our community.

Confit in the media

• UNSW partners with Confit Pathways‍
• NSW fitness program for young people in jail helping them to see 'another life is possible'
• From convict to con-fit: program keeping children out of detention