THE ASPIRE HIGHER (ANTI KNIFE) PROGRAM

The Aspire Higher (Anti Knife) Program is a high impact violence reduction and holistic personal development program designed to change behaviour traits and negative mindsets, it uses advanced coaching methodologies combined with crime prevention workshops using the creative arts, motivational strategies, high level conflict resolution, non-aggressive knife defence and violence prevention. We view violence through the eye of public health and employ an evidence-based model proven to reduce violence in different cultural contexts.

The program focuses on building confidence, communication skills and self-esteem, while inspiring the participants to engage in education, training and employment. We use a combination of proven methodologies which compliment each other and both have a proven track record of working within the custodial setting and within the community. All our workshops are delivered by dynamic facilitators and the workers are labelled as being “credible messengers” (those with experiences of violence, gang affiliation and or offending behaviour). This allows for a cognizant connection with many of the participants and an approach which leads to a potent peer led program. Our non-violent conflict resolution sessions are based around cascading mediation skills, knowledge and experience, alongside the FAST (Fear Adrenalised Stress Training) methodology.

Research indicates that violence, like other behaviours is acquired or learned and this is done mainly through modelling, observing, imitating or copying until it becomes a behavioural habit. By employing a pioneering epidemiological model the Aspire Higher Anti Knife program uses advanced personal development and holistic methodologies to pivot the beginning of a behaviour change and a mindset shift. The strategy is to gain a positive shift in mindset which will impact other areas of an individual’s life beyond the programme.