Gai Brodtmann (Canberra, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to pay tribute to another Canberra legend—Francis Owusu. Francis is the founder and CEO of Kulture Break and was a national finalist in Australia's Local Hero awards. Francis, from a Gambian background, moved to Canberra in his teens after living in Victoria. In Canberra, his life turned around with his discovery of dance and how it empowers kids and gives them an identity. Francis began organising after-school dance classes which have transformed and changed the lives of hundreds of young people.

When I met with Francis, he was full of passion and zest for Kulture Break, which is now operating in 30 schools and reaching almost 500 kids. It started in the Tuggeranong Valley. Francis Owusu connects through dance. He empowers young people and gives them a sense of self, social inclusion and wellbeing. As Francis told me, Kulture Break makes kids cool. It shows they have something to offer. It builds confidence and self-esteem.

Thank you, Francis and Kulture Break, for all you are doing to empower and transform the lives of so many young Canberrans. Thank you for giving so many young Canberrans a sense of purpose and direction and a love of dance.