About Powerhouse Programs

J2M September 2020 Crew
J2M September 2020 Crew

Welcome to Powerhouse Programs, (part of The Complete Men Foundation, a registered charity). We are dedicated to supporting the emotional and social development of young people and their families. Our focus is on fostering emotionally intelligent, socially aware individuals who are passionate and engaged in their lives and communities.

Vision and Mission

Vision: We aim to cultivate communities enriched with young individuals who are emotionally intelligent, socially aware, and deeply engaged in life's myriad opportunities.

Mission: Our mission is to create and implement educational and practical programs for schools and families, blending emotional learning with life skills to empower the next generation.

Our CEO - Stephen Halsall

Stephen Halsall, the co-founder and CEO of Powerhouse Programs, is a registered psychologist but also a visionary in the field of adolescent development and family dynamics. His expertise lies in understanding and improving father-son relationship dynamics and the critical role of rites of passage in modern society. His approach is holistic, strengths-based and combines a working knowledge of academic research with practical, real-world tools and skills. Stephen's leadership has been pivotal in the evolution of Powerhouse Programs, leading the way in innovative program development that resonates deeply with families and communities.

Stephen's career is marked by a commitment to understanding the nuances of family psychology. He is particularly focused on the challenges faced during adolescence, crafting programs that address these with sensitivity and effectiveness, whilst supporting each parent to identify what changes and improves they can contribute to support. His approach is informed by a blend of traditional psychological theories and contemporary practices, making the programs within Powerhouse both unique and impactful.

Our History and Foundation

Powerhouse Programs was co-founded by Stephen Halsall and Andy Roy in 2009, stemming from a transformative experience at a men-only weekend in the Gold Coast Hinterland. This event sparked the vision for what Powerhouse Programs would become - a SE QLD organisation dedicated to fostering healthy family dynamics and supporting the developmental needs of young people. Over the years, Powerhouse has developed and refined a range of programs, including 'Journey to Manhood' and 'Building Bridges'. These programs have become cornerstones in the community, helping countless families navigate the complexities of adolescence and strengthen their familial bonds. Journey into Womanhood is a recent addition in order to provide families with teenage daughters a rite of passage to acknowledge their transition into adulthood. 

As Powerhouse grew and evolved, it became part of the Complete Men Foundation in early 2023 and enjoys a close working relationship with the Mens Wellbeing Association and other leading mens personal growth organisations.

Charity Status

As an integral part of the Complete Men Foundation, a registered charity with ACNC and enjoying DGR status, Powerhouse Programs is well-positioned to broaden its impact. Our charitable status allows us to reach a diverse audience, ensuring that our programs are accessible to all families, irrespective of their financial situation.

Mens Wellbeing is a not-for-profit community organisation which offers programs such as Common Ground, men's gatherings and resources in order to develop the wellbeing of men to foster healthy relationships, families and communities. We are proud to be partners in actively supporting each others' activities.

logo mens wellbeing

The Powerhouse Team

Our team is dynamic and expanding. We have a number of men and women that have knowledge and experience in diverse professional backgrounds and expertise in rites of passage programs and facilitation. Additionally, we invite young men as alumni from our programs to contribute and serve as positive role models for our teenage boys. Some team members have even completed their own teenage rite of passage and now facilitate our programs.

Returning young men and fathers have the opportunity to return onto the program and develop their personal awareness, emotional intelligence and develop greater understanding of the father-son dynamic. The benefits of working as a part of a team in this process are felt not only by the individual, but by their family and professional colleagues.

J2M Crew APR2023
J2M April 2023 Crew
We have received positive interest from people and communities asking to be mentored in how to develop their own rites of passage and how to bring our programs to their region. Please contact us if you and your community wish to discuss this and how we may support your vision. A professional colleague of ours, Doctor Arne provides Rites of Passage Leadership Training. Ongoing training and program mentoring can be provided by Powerhouse Programs. Please contact us to arrange a chat about introducing a Rites of Passage program in your area.