· Through Binar Futures' initiatives in sports engagement, youth leadership and youth development, Adam has encouraged young people to participate in a team sport and seek leadership opportunities to give back to their community.
· Adam's work embodies The Fathering Project's #SafeWithYou campaign, which educates, connects and mobilises fathers and families to create safe environments and brighter futures for children.
· The Fathering Project's annual Australian Fathering Awards showcase the critical role of fathers, father figures and workplaces in building safe, thriving families and communities.
Sydney, Australia – 29 August – The Fathering Project proudly announces Adam Desmond as Australian Sports Father of the Year 2024 for his work in building Perth's first Aboriginal basketball association aimed at using sport as an engagement tool to promote better health, cultural and education outcomes for young people in the community.
Binar, the Noongar word for Meteor/shooting start, began as a basketball team of six over 15 years ago. It has since grown into a vibrant community organisation that engages over 2,000 primarily Aboriginal children annually across Western Australia.
"I started Binar Futures because I saw too many kids slipping through the cracks, feeling disconnected from their culture and community," said Adam, "I wanted to create a space where kids could exercise while building a strong community and network and help to make sure no child is left behind."
Binar Futures partners with local schools to hold regional basketball tournaments, bringing kids together from across the state. By creating a safe space to celebrate and value culture and identity, Adam has supported many children to forge new pathways and break cycles of disadvantage.
"Binar's programs are designed to inspire the next generation to aim high, with a focus on personal growth, teamwork, and cultural pride," said Adam. "It is more than just playing basketball. We're building a community where kids feel they belong, where they can see their culture reflected and celebrated."
Many of the boys involved in the inaugural basketball team are now employed by Binar Futures, delivering the same programs that inspired and supported them to the next generation.
A Binar Futures youth leader expressed the impact Adam has had on their life, saying, "Adam has made me feel understood and supported throughout my whole lifetime. There were times in my life where it wasn't going great, and the support system I had around me wasn't the best. He provided me incredible support and told me I can do anything I set my mind to."
Adam's work embodies what research has proven: that fathers and father figures significantly impact a child's social, mental, emotional, physical and academic outcomes.
"We are incredibly proud to honour Adam as the Australian Sports Father of the Year 2024. His dedication to Binar Futures has not only transformed the lives of thousands of children but has also created a lasting legacy in the community," said Káti Gapaillard, CEO of The Fathering Project.
The announcement of the Australian Fathering Awards 2024 coincides with the launch of The Fathering Project's 2024 Father's Day campaign, #SafeWithYou, which underscores the crucial role fathers and father figures play in ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
"Adam embodies the very essence of what the #SafeWithYou campaign stands for, providing a safe space for fathers and children to play, grow and learn and we are thrilled to celebrate his remarkable contributions," said Káti Gapaillard.
