A Platform for Change: Empowering Youth Through Basketball

Beyond the court, Binar Futures offers more than just a place to play basketball. Founded in 2011, this organization has grown from a small initiative into a powerful force for positive change. The club runs its own league, conducts school clinics, and holds training sessions four nights a week. However, its true mission lies in using basketball as a gateway to improve health, education, and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal children.

An Unlikely Journey Begins

Adam’s involvement with Binar started when he helped run Night Hoops, a program aimed at diverting at-risk youth from antisocial behavior. Recognizing the need for more structured activities, Adam decided to take some of these kids and enter them into a league in another part of Perth. As the team manager, coach, and bus driver, Adam quickly realized the profound impact these car rides had on the children. Conversations evolved from casual chats to meaningful discussions about life and school, creating a trusted space for open dialogue.

These journeys became an integral part of Binar’s culture. Adam recalls, “When I look back now, those car rides were crucial in building trust and understanding. It wasn’t just about basketball; it was about giving these kids a stable environment they could rely on.”

From Struggles to Success

Adam’s personal journey mirrors the transformation he seeks for the children in Binar. Growing up in a loving home, he made poor decisions during his teenage years, including couch hopping and engaging in illegal activities. A turning point came when his girlfriend became pregnant. This event prompted him to reassess his life and make significant changes. Quitting alcohol and drugs, Adam focused on providing a better future for his child.

This newfound commitment led him to purchase his own dry-cleaning business in 2003, which later expanded to Midland in 2007. By 2014, Binar had become another full-time job, but with the support of his family, Adam managed to balance both roles. His wife and children often helped out at the dry-cleaner, allowing him to dedicate time to Binar’s growth and development.

Facing Tragedy and Building Resilience

Despite its successes, Binar has faced heartbreaking challenges. In 2022, teenager Cassius Turvey, a beloved member of the program, was tragically attacked and later died in hospital. Cassius was considered a leader in his community, and his loss deeply affected everyone involved. Adam recalls the difficult days following the incident, particularly how Mechelle Turvey, Cassius’s mother, handled the situation with grace and resilience.

Mechelle played a pivotal role in preventing community backlash. Her selflessness and ability to unite people in grief brought the community closer together. Adam notes, “Mechelle did an amazing job of putting her trauma aside to ensure everyone supported each other through this tough time.”

Expanding Horizons and Future Ambitions

Binar Futures has come a long way since its inception. With full-time staff and an office, the organization continues to grow and evolve. Adam’s ambitions include expanding into more schools and communities, establishing a sports complex for programs, and entering teams in prestigious competitions like the Western Australian Basketball League.

Reflecting on his journey, Adam acknowledges the importance of his past experiences. He believes that his struggles as a teenager allow him to connect with children facing similar challenges. His ultimate goal is to prevent any child from experiencing the trauma and pain he once did. “I want to give as many kids as possible a chance to thrive without encountering unnecessary hardships,” Adam says.

Binar Futures exemplifies the transformative power of sport. Through basketball, it provides a platform for Indigenous youth to excel academically, culturally, and personally. As it continues to grow, the organization remains committed to empowering the next generation and creating lasting change.