Troy Wilkins: A Hero for Troubled Teens

A Journey from Struggle to Redemption

Troy Wilkins is a man who knows what it means to face adversity and come out stronger on the other side. Growing up in Mount Druitt, Western Sydney, Wilkins struggled in school and often found himself in trouble. He wasn’t academically inclined, and as a result, he took the path of least resistance, which led him into a world of drugs and crime. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he became a father to four daughters. Determined to give them a better future, Wilkins decided to leave his old life behind and start anew. He moved to the Sunshine Coast, where he opened a gym and eventually discovered his true calling—helping troubled teenagers through martial arts and personal development programs.

From Martial Arts to Mentorship: The Birth of Teens Take Control

Wilkins’ journey to becoming a mentor for at-risk youth began when a primary school in Caloundra approached him to run martial arts classes for a group of disengaged students. The school explained that these kids were struggling academically and behaviorally, and Wilkins immediately saw a reflection of his younger self in them. “That sounds like me,” he thought, and thus, Teens Take Control was born.

Today, Teens Take Control is more than just a martial arts program. It’s a comprehensive initiative that combines strength, fitness, and personal development to help teenagers build resilience, confidence, and a sense of purpose. The program specifically targets kids from low socioeconomic backgrounds, many of whom come from single-parent families or environments plagued by substance abuse. Wilkins believes that providing these kids with stable role models and a supportive environment is key to helping them turn their lives around.

The Impact of Teens Take Control

The Teens Take Control program has already made a significant difference in the lives of 35 enrolled students, most of whom are from Nambour State College. The program is structured to include both physical training and personal development sessions, teaching the kids essential life skills such as respect, work ethic, and how to be a “good human.” For teenagers aged 15 and above, there’s an additional focus on employment skills, which has earned the program recognition and occasional state government funding.

However, despite its success, the program faces uncertainty due to inconsistent funding support. Wilkins has expressed his hope that the LNP government’s focus on early intervention and rehabilitation will open up new opportunities for Teens Take Control. He believes that with adequate funding, he can expand the program and create a more sustainable future for the youth it serves.

A Vision for the Future: More Than Just a Gym

Wilkins’ ultimate vision is to transform the warehouse on Norval Court in Maroochydore into a full-fledged youth center. He’s been advocating for this for over a decade, pointing out the lack of resources and safe spaces for teenagers in the community. “Councils build playgrounds for kids, but there’s nothing for teenagers,” he says. “When they’re bored, they get up to stupid stuff, and that starts a cycle—especially if they’re not going to school.”

A youth center would provide teenagers with a safe space to hang out, learn new skills, and connect with positive role models. It would also serve as a hub for community engagement, offering activities and programs tailored to the needs of local teens. Wilkins believes that such a center could be a game-changer in reducing youth delinquency and helping young people find their way in life.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Hope

Troy Wilkins’ journey from a troubled youth to a dedicated mentor is a testament to the power of redemption and the impact one person can have on their community. Through Teens Take Control, he’s not only helping at-risk teenagers but also challenging the system to invest more in their future. His story is a reminder that everyone deserves a second chance and that with the right support, even the most disengaged kids can thrive.

As Wilkins continues to fight for funding and resources, his vision of a youth center remains a beacon of hope for the Sunshine Coast community. With perseverance and determination, he’s proving that it’s never too late to make a difference in the lives of others—and that’s a legacy worth fighting for.