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Brisbane Airport has long been a committed partner to the Arts and culture scene in Brisbane, and 2025 will mark some exciting...
The Boss Boxing (TBB), a recent recipient of Brisbane Airport Corporation’s Community Giving Fund, is not your average boxing gym – their aim is get the youth “off the streets and into the gym”.
The Boss Boxing was born out of a need from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Zillmere and surrounding suburbs, calling for a culturally safe space that fostered meaningful connections, inclusivity, and mentoring opportunities.
The Boss Boxing (TBB) entered the ring.
TBB run boxing lessons that enable and empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people while sharing and celebrating their culture. This inclusive gym, run entirely by volunteers, works with people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to help them build confidence and find community.
A former Australian Institute of Sport Scholarship holder and Australian Indigenous Boxing Champion, Founder and Head Coach, Sammy Leone utilises his extensive boxing experience to train and mentor the people – young and old – who walk through the gym’s doors.
“Boxing changed my life and taught me how to live for the better. As a result, I’m keen to help others live their best life.”
“Boxing teaches you discipline, self-control, resilience and consistency – you’ve got to turn up and keep showing up. These are all attributes that help you become a high-functioning individual in society. Boxing helps improve your social, emotional, physical and cultural wellbeing.”
Along with boxing classes, TBB offers mentoring, programs and pathways that provide the opportunity to forge strong, positive relationships with a like-minded community. They provide services for young people who are engaged in the youth justice system, work with NDIS providers to offer services, and run a program for Elders – women aged over 55, offering low impact exercise.
“We regularly hear from Elders and government departments that we’re doing a good job. They have confidence in our program, which is why they continue to refer kids to our boxing classes. We focus on changing the conversation and giving kids access to mentors and people doing positive things.”
Sammy first became aware of Brisbane Airport Corporation’s (BAC) Community Giving Fund after doing some online research and thought it was worth applying and ‘throwing his hat in the ring’.
“We believe in what we offer and the services we provide to the community, and that’s why we applied. We need to self-fund our programs so are always looking for community support.”
Previously working out of a small church hall which they’d quickly outgrown, the Community Giving Fund grant from BAC meant Sammy could move the gym to a permanent location and have financial stability to deliver a consistent service.
“The church hall was too small and we were having to turn people away. We started training outside, but often had to cancel due to the weather.”
With a growing membership base of over 150 people aged from five to 70 years, Sammy was keen to create a safe space where everyone could feel supported to share what was happening in their lives. Programs include Little Warriors, for those aged 5 to 10 years, Community Warriors for anyone aged 11 and above, a Competitive Boxers program for elite level athletes, and The First Nations Golden Girls Program for female Elders (55+ years).
“Our oldest and most active member is a First Nations Elder who is 70 years old – she attends eight classes a week!”
It’s thanks to funding from community grants like the one from BAC that TBB have been able to achieve great things this year. After securing a commercial lease and moving into a new premises in Zillmere, The Boss Boxing is now able to offer services to more people – continuing to provide a positive impact to those who need it most.
Impact comes in various forms – from providing regular, consistent fitness classes to sponsoring up-and-coming athletes – equipping them with gear and means to compete at a professional level.
Athlete sponsorship helps to overcome financial and social barriers and promotes equal access and a brighter future for all.
“Sponsorship gives athletes more than just gloves and head gear – it gives them hope. We give them the extra support they need and help give them a positive start.”
One athlete recently won at State-level and went on to box in Perth at the Olympic Games qualifying rounds. Other athletes have gone on to win medals, including two winning silver at the National Golden Gloves.
But there is no time to look back over at where they’ve been – Sammy is already looking ahead. His dream – to grow The Boss Boxing membership and services to support more First Nations people.
“We have been approached to be the hub of athlete development for the North Region in the lead up to the Olympic games. We’re hoping to grow our First Nations boxing academy. We want to be able to fund inhouse staff that can support the athletes and community.”
In order to achieve this dream, and to make a positive impact, The Boss Boxing is always looking for socially responsible organisations, just like BAC, to provide support. As for Sammy and his team of volunteers, they remain focused on showing up consistently for their members, enabling First Nations people to feel empowered and equipped both in and out of the boxing ring.
How can you help?
- The Boss Boxing relies heavily on the generosity of donors to continue offering boxing classes and services.
- If you wish to discuss monetary or equipment donations, or opportunities to work together for a brighter future, please contact [email protected].
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