How PCYC Helped Delanda Find Her Voice

Amber Griffin

Three years ago, after a period of adversity, boxing classes lead Delanda to PCYC Mount Druitt where she found belonging. Now, at 15 years old she’s at the club every day, participating in youth programs, volunteering at the front desk, and helping run gymnastics sessions.

“I came here knowing no one, and I quickly felt part of the family. I like to call PCYC my second home because when I’m not at home, I’m here and I feel very welcome here. If I didn’t have PCYC, I wouldn’t have anywhere else to go after school and I wouldn’t be active,” Said Delanda.

Recently, Delanda participated in PCYC youth program, Blue Star. It’s designed to foster personal development and leadership skills, offering practical, real-world experiences that empower young people to step up in their communities.

As part of the program, participants pursue Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh levels, amass 40 volunteer hours and physical recreation hours, earn First Aid and CPR certification, and attend multi-day camps and treks – Delanda most recently joining 28 other participants on a four-day camp at Point Wolstoncroft on the Central Coast.

“We had a cultural day, we learnt how to sail, we went canoeing, we did stand up paddle boarding, we rode bikes. I made lifelong friendships and developed valuable life skills, I can have an open conversation now with someone I don’t know, I can be in a new environment and be myself.” Said Delanda.

Reflecting on the last three years, Delanda says her confidence has skyrocketed and she feels like a new person, looking forward to maintaining a lifelong connection to PCYC.

PCYC Mount Druitt Club Manager Jasper Villasana said, “Watching Delanda grow and develop into the person that she is now, especially compared to how reserved she was earlier when she first met us, it’s extremely rewarding.”

Delanda also has a close relationship with the NSW Police Youth Engagement Officers who work in partnership with PCYC, which has kept her on a positive path in life.

Senior Constable Tina Davis said, “Delanda struggled with bullying and self-doubt. Together and working with the NSW Police Force, we have worked on reframing these challenges through boxing and finding a safe place in PCYC,”

“I have watched her develop an admirable sense of grit, desire and motivation to now not only participate but attend and win professional boxing tournaments. She has transitioned from a shy, withdrawn young girl to becoming a resilient problem-solver who tackles adversity with patience, curiosity, and positive decision-making.”

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How PCYC Helped Delanda Find Her Voice

Amber Griffin

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