Over 18 weeks spanning terms two and three, Mark Burns of Gerringong led the third annual Building Young Men program with 14 Year Ten students from Kiama High School. 

This mentoring initiative is based on the rites of passage model developed by Dr. Arne Rubinstein and includes a 24-hour challenge and an overnight camp. The program aims to support the mental health and development of young men during a critical stage of their lives.

Burns, CEO of The Man Walk, explained that the rites of passage model follows three key stages: separation, challenge, and return. He sought to replicate this through the program’s structure.

“Traditionally, a rite of passage might involve a challenge with your village or tribe—like going out to hunt with your uncles," says Burns. "That would be the separation and the challenge. The return happens when you come back, and the tribe honours you as a man, with new responsibilities." 

Without formal rites of passage in modern society, Burns believes young men seek their own ways to prove themselves, which can sometimes lead to risky behaviours. 

“They’re wired for that transition at 16," Burns explains. "Without proper guidance, they may try things like reckless driving, experimenting with drugs, or other risky behaviour."

This year's program involved mentoring from nine men of all different backgrounds and ages, a 24 hour walk around Win Stadium which finished at half-time of the Dragons match and an overnight camp at Kangaroo Valley.

The initiative has been a huge success. Both students and parents have reported significant positive changes in behaviour and attitude following the program. 

“I’ve received wonderful feedback from the young men and their parents," says Burns. "Parents have told me they’ve seen huge improvements in behaviour and attitude at home.” 

Teachers have also noted marked changes in school performance. “Kiama High reported a significant decrease in absenteeism, improvement in grades, and better behaviour in class. They say it’s the best program they’ve had,” says Burns.

One of Burns’ favourite outcomes of the program is the camaraderie it fosters among the students. 

“One of the guys told me he didn’t even know some of the others before, and now they’re best mates,” he shared. “They come from different backgrounds—some sporty, some more musical—but by the end, they’re a team. They look out for each other now, and will for the rest of their lives.” 

Burns stresses that mentorship and guidance at this age is vital. “I had mates who started to go off the rails at 16. I was lucky—I had a stable home and good guidance, but not everyone has that. Sixteen is a key age where you can make decisions that either set you on a good path or cause problems down the line.”

A key focus of the program is encouraging respect, honesty, and thoughtful decision-making, especially in relation to women. 

“We talk about respect and decision-making with young women, and the guys were amazing in those discussions,” Burns says. “This kind of focus is critical for us to move forward as a society and address issues like disrespect, sexual abuse, and violence.”

Due to limited resources, only 14 students can participate each year, and they are selected through a two-page application process. For those who aren’t selected or parents who want more information, Burns recommends The Making of Men by Arne Rubinstein. 

“It’s a great resource for understanding boy versus man psychology,” Burns said. “And I’m always happy to chat with parents or students who want to learn more about how to help young men make good decisions.”