The 15-year impact of an inclusive exercise program designed to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people while supporting diversity will be celebrated at an event next week.

Thriving in Motion’s partnerships with The University of Western Australia and Telethon 7, and its long-term impact for young people across WA will be showcased at an event on Thursday 12 November.

Speakers include Associate Professor Bonnie Furzer, the CEO and Founding Director of Thriving in Motion from UWA’s  School of Human Sciences, and Associate Professor Kemi Wright, COO and Founding Director of Thriving in Motion, a senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales and UWA graduate.

“Fifteen years ago, we started with a simple but powerful belief, that every young person, regardless of their medical, behavioural or social background, deserves a positive exercise experience,” Associate Professor Furzer said.

“Today, we are incredibly proud of the community we have built and the lives we have had the privilege of being part of.  This milestone is a celebration of our young people, our families, our team and the partners who have walked alongside us every step of the way.”

Sonny has grown from a child into a teenager in the six years he has participated in the program and during that time has built a relationship with his own body through movement.

Sonny's mum Zoe said he had developed a wonderful rapport with his exercise therapist throughout the years.

“The program is tailored to his abilities and needs and is very flexible and most importantly fun,” she said.

“It given him so much confidence and he attempts different skills that he would otherwise have shied away from if he were around his classmates at school.”

The event includes opportunities for guests to connect with the Thriving team, families and young people such as Sonny.

“What drives everything we do at Thriving is the evidence that when young people are supported in the right environment, they can achieve remarkable things,” Associate Professor Wright said.

“Over 15 years, we have seen children go from being too anxious to participate, to thriving in community sport and everyday life.

“This anniversary is a chance to reflect on that impact — and to look ahead with real excitement at what the next chapter holds for young people across WA and beyond."

The event will be held on Thursday 12 November from 6pm to 9pm at 5/2 Gibberd Road in Balcatta. To register click here.