Finding Strength on Two Wheels
At 15 years old, Liam came to Youth Encounter carrying the weight of many things including anger, ADHD and behavioural struggles. Anger often felt like it controlled him, showing up in outbursts, harsh language, and difficulty keeping boundaries. What Liam really wanted was to feel more in control of his emotions and find healthier ways to express what was going on inside. Behind the frustration, though, was a kind and deeply caring young man who often just needed help to channel his energy in a positive direction.
The biggest barrier for Liam wasn’t a lack of potential, it was finding the tools to regulate his emotions and the right environment where he could feel respected, supported, and understood.
Liam joined Youth Encounter’s 1-on-1 Dirt Bike Therapy program, an experience that combines the adrenaline and focus of dirt bike riding with therapeutic practices like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and narrative therapy. Week by week, we created a safe space for him to be his authentic self, to let walls downs and to try again even after tough sessions. This was also a space where Liam was challenged and encouraged, to step into new opportunities and push past his comfort zone. In other words, step into his full potential that we saw in him.
On the track, Liam learned how to push himself, focus his energy, and apply new strategies for self-control. He chose self-control as one of his key values to work on, and the dirt bike became a way to practice it in real time. Beyond the riding, his strengths such as his loyalty, resilience, and kindness, were consistently affirmed, helping him see that his identity was bigger than his anger.
Liam’s journey wasn’t without struggle, but his perseverance paid off. He showed up most weeks, stayed engaged, and grew more self-aware along the way. By the time he reached the final stage of the program, that we call Puāwai (Celebration), the change was evident. Liam allowed himself to be vulnerable, expressing gratitude for the program and the people who supported him. His tears that day spoke louder than words, showing just how far he had come in recognizing his emotions and embracing his potential.
Receiving his certificate wasn’t just a milestone, it was a moment of empowerment. Liam held it with pride, proof that he had pushed through the challenges and come out stronger. He finished the program not only with new coping tools, but also with a renewed sense of stability, gratitude, and belief in himself.
Liam is motivated to keep growing and building on the foundation he has laid. His consistent attendance and eagerness to return show that. Liam’s story reminds us that every young person carries incredible potential. With the right support, opportunities, and belief, that potential can shine through. Today, Liam is stepping more fully into his identity and future, living life wide open.