Using hip hop’s healing powers
FIVE young Cairns people who use their love of hip hop to steer others away from a life of crime have been recognised for their efforts.
Semi Naborisi, Daniel Butler, Ben Stallard, Win Phan and Lakisha Chan were nominated for the 2017 Queensland Young Achiever Awards for their work at Cairns PCYC’s hip hop space, The Cypher.
Facilitator Linda Butler said 26-year-old Brinsmead dance teacher Semi Naborisi, nominated for the Leadership Award, had been a “big brother” figure to hundreds of local youth during the past six years.
“He has a special way to bring out the utmost best in everyone,” Linda said.
“He has changed youth that were on the path of destruction to a path of success.”
Even when he was in hospital last year, Semi guided young people through their dance routines via computer, phone and conversations.
“He always places others before himself.”
Bachelor of Business student Win Phan, nominated for the Leadership Award, has helped many other young people become leaders, dance teachers and choreographers.
He has also launched an annual hip hop battle, learned basic Auslan to communicate with hearing-impaired youth, and fundraised and busked to buy equipment.
Manunda volunteer Lakisha Chan, nominated for the Cultural Diversity Award, had demonstrated empathy and compassion – integrating different cultures, social groups and abilities “as one family”.
She has learned sign language, organised fundraisers, prepared meals and motivated others, even when dealing with issues of her own.
“She never fails to put the needs and wellbeing of others before herself,” Linda said.
Brinsmead lad Ben Stallard, who is autistic and suffers from epilepsy, started the first disabled hip hop crew in Cairns.
He also teaches choreography, mixes music and volunteers at Arc Disability, Salvation Army, church and youth groups, all while holding down a paid job.
Linda said Ben, nominated for a Community Volunteer Award, had overcome years of bullying to build bridges between able and disabled youth.
“The impact of having a youth like Ben in the program is immense,” she said.
Despite being ill for much of the past year after kidney and knee operations, Daniel Butler of Earlville gives unconditionally to others.
Nominated for the Cultural Diversity Award, he helps set up and pack up the weekly hip hop sessions, gives performances, runs dance workshops and mentors youth in gymnastics and tricking moves.
“While he has his personal obstacles, Daniel does not let these stop him from volunteering and giving to others,” said Cypher facilitator Alice Chan.