When you meet Hayden, the first thing you notice is his energy—an infectious, confident presence that seems to radiate wisdom far beyond his 18 years. But what truly stands out about Hayden is his ability to connect. Whether he’s chatting with a group of teenage boys in a workshop or reflecting on his personal journey, he speaks with authenticity and heart. His story is a living example of what Top Blokes is all about: helping young men unlock their potential, embrace vulnerability, and step into leadership roles.
Hayden inspires us every day. We know his words will inspire you too. Listen to his story.
A rough start, a new path
For Hayden, the path to becoming a youth worker wasn’t always clear. Losing his mother at a young age and growing up with a father who was struggling, he experienced what he calls “a rough hand.” However, amidst the challenges, Hayden found two pivotal influences: his aunt, a seasoned youth worker, and the Top Blokes program, which he joined in Year 9.
“Top Blokes wasn’t just another school program,” Hayden says. “It gave me mentors I could actually relate to—men who had been where I was, who understood what I was feeling. That made all the difference.”
Through the 18-week program, Hayden discovered his own potential and the power of having someone believe in you. “I realised people saw something in me I didn’t see in myself,” he shared. “That faith was life-changing.”
From participant to mentor
Now, as a Top Blokes Trainee Youth Worker, Hayden is on the other side of the workshop circle. His path from participant to mentor reflects the organisation’s mission: to empower young men to become positive leaders in their communities.
Hayden’s relatability is his greatest strength. When he tells new participants that he’s been through the program himself, their faces light up with surprise—and often, relief. “It’s like they realise I’m not here to preach at them,” Hayden says. “I’m here to walk alongside them.”
He uses his own experiences to connect with the boys on topics that are often difficult to talk about, like anger, mental health, and even pornography. “I tell them, ‘It’s okay to feel angry. Anger is just an emotion—it’s what you do with it that matters.’”
Breaking down stigmas
A key part of Hayden’s work is challenging the stereotypes and stigmas that hold young men back. In a world where strength is often equated with silence, Top Blokes teaches boys that vulnerability is a form of courage.
“Being vulnerable isn’t weak—it’s how you grow,” Hayden explains. “The program creates a safe space where boys can drop their walls and talk about things they’ve been holding in, sometimes for years.”
One of the most impactful workshops Hayden runs is on the “Realities of Porn,” a topic rarely discussed openly. “Young men are learning about intimacy from porn, and it’s giving them a completely skewed idea of what relationships should be,” he says. “We’re here to break those misconceptions and have real, honest conversations.”
Hayden’s advice to young men
So, what’s Hayden’s advice for young men navigating the challenges of growing up?
“Stay open-minded,” he says without hesitation. “Take on new challenges, join programs, and be open to change. You never know where it might lead you.”
Why Hayden’s story matters
Hayden shows us the power of mentorship and community. It’s proof that when young men are given the tools to express themselves and the support to believe in their potential, they can achieve incredible things.
At Top Blokes, we’re proud to be part of that journey. We believe in young men like Hayden, and we’re here to remind every boy in our programs: You are capable. You are resilient. And you have what it takes to lead.
