Latrell Mitchell's Winmarra Foundation: Empowering Indigenous Youth

0:00From Adelaide, this is your March 12th update. NRL star LaTrell Mitchell is shining a light on his win-mara foundation ahead of a big rivalry match between his South Sydney rabbit holes and the Sydney roosters. Instead of chatting football, he focused on the group's emerging leaders program, a 10-month initiative for indigenous youth. It builds skills, confidence, and cultural ties through mentorship in places like Brewerina, New South Wales. Mitchell has deep roots in the name win-mara, tied to his birthplace near Tire and the stories of his people in the Manning Valley. He picked Brewerina for the pilot because the community means a lot to him, and giving back feels essential. He's seen kids transform from shy to self-assured, knowing their heritage and dreams. Take 17-year-old Darnell Hetherill, a program graduate. He nailed his driver's license on the first try, started coaching young footballers, and landed his dream gig as Brewerina's youngest rural fire, Service Cadet.

1:02Darnell credits the program with boosting his leadership and resilience, and he praises Mitchell's quiet community work beyond the footy field. The foundation's efforts make economic sense too. Co-founder Sunny Brayer points out that guiding kids like Darnell away from trouble saves big money millions in youth justice, education dropouts. Mental health and welfare costs for just 30 youth. Getting them out of juvenile detention is far cheaper than the alternative. Now self-funded, the Wimmar Foundation seeks philanthropic and government backing to expand. Mitchell hopes it creates future indigenous leaders, passing on elders wisdom to every community long after his playing days. CNN is brought to you by our sponsor. Do not just listen to podcasts. Get lost in them comfortably. S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com