Our Respect and Responsibility Seminar for Year 10 and 11 boys in October 2024 was a discussion-based forum that emphasised personal responsibility and respectful behaviour and aligned with our College values and commitment to restorative practices, which focus on resolving conflicts and building relationships through understanding and empathy.
Five community leaders were invited to join us by alumnus Pastor Ray Moaga—the mastermind behind the program—for a day of inspiration and valuable life lessons. Our guest list included the following community leaders who shared personal life learnings and wisdom about what it means to combine masculinity and respect in our daily lives:
- Sam Tagataese from the NRL Dolphins
- Mike Anderson, CFO of Netball QLD/Firebirds
- Pete Godbold, chaplain for Brisbane Bullets and Red Frogs
- Lex Sagala, chaplain for Scripture Union
- Alele Vilifrom the Australian Army
Each guest shared insights into the unique pressures of their roles, defined what respect means to them, described experiences and mentors who taught them powerful lessons when they were young, and explained why good values are crucial in their work and personal lives. The teens were encouraged to consider how these pivotal values might shape their own lives.
At the heart of the seminar was a powerful message: God values each of us, and when we recognise that we are 'fearfully and wonderfully made,' it changes how we see the world and shapes our identity. This profound understanding helps us respect ourselves and others, even in challenging situations.
What struck me was how fully the boys engaged. They were polite and conducted themselves admirably. Their response far exceeded our expectations, and it’s clear that this event addressed a significant need. One student said, "They not only shared their life stories but were willing to discuss them with us on a personal level." Another said, "I learned that being respectful doesn't only help other people but myself also."
It was heartening to witness the students' newfound understanding of respect in their daily lives. One student said, "I hadn't really thought too much about respect, but I found out there are so many ways to show it."
This seminar is part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing respectful and responsible young people and we plan to hold more such seminars for both boys and girls in the years to come.
Denis Matthews
Secondary Teacher and Restorative Practices Coordinator
