SALLY Comerford is passionate about seeing young people empowered.
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And, over the past couple of years, she has been developing a program with the help of like-minded individuals to provide practical tips and encouragement for young girls.
Empowering Young Women Anti-Bullying Workshops are tailored to different age groups, and presented at Muswellbrook Scout Hall.
In May, Ms Comerford will welcome a class of girls aged 5 to 7 to the Jiu Jitsu program.
Over six weeks, from May 8, the girls will participate in the age-tailored curriculum.
As well as teaching them how to defend themselves through Jiu Jitsu training, the seminars also aim to build confidence and encourage them to raise their voice.
For the younger age group, there is a high focus on fun exercises, while still showing them how to respect themselves and others, and have discipline and focus.
“If we can get to the girls at that age, we can set them up for life,” Ms Comerford said.
“It’s a good tool – I wish I did it when I was young.”
In 2016, there were 25 participants, with an average age of 11.
Ms Comerford said there were clear confidence improvements for the girls who completed the program last year.
“At the start, some even cried because they didn’t want to be there,” she said.
“At the end of the six weeks, they were laughing and confident.”
This year, Ms Comerford will continue to expand the initiative, and welcome back Stage One graduates to Stage Two.
The Muswellbrook mother said the program would not be possible without the help of the three Jiu Jitsu instructors – Dan, Mick, and Jason.
There are workshops available for other age groups, including a newly created program for young men.
They are also working towards expanding their work to Newcastle.
For more information, contact Sally on 0409 717 484, or visit https://www.sallycomerford.com/home
You can also find Empowering Young Women by Sally on Facebook and Instagram.