Kedron-Wavell is proud to announce a powerful new partnership with The Boss Boxing, a culturally safe and inclusive First Nations-owned gym transforming lives one punch at a time.
Founded by former Queensland ANBF Welterweight Champion, Sammy Leone, The Boss Boxing is more than a gym, it’s a culturally affirming environment for the next generation of athletes.
With a mission built around three E’s —enable, empower and equip—this grassroots organisation uses the discipline of boxing to deliver positive outcomes for participants.
For Mr Leone, boxing arrived at a pivotal moment in his life.
“I started boxing at 22, when I wanted to make some serious changes for my daughter,” Mr Leone says.
“I found boxing—and I never looked back.
“It gave me discipline, routine, and structure. And those three things changed everything.”
The Boss Boxing invests in its people outside the ropes—offering mentoring, crisis support and pathways to employment.
“We’ve helped thousands of people since we launched in 2019.
“Sometimes that’s through training. Sometimes it’s groceries, or financial assistance.
“We’ve even housed people and offered ways of out of gangs and street life.
“Sometimes it’s just being there when no one else is.”
For Kedron-Wavell General Manager, Vjorn Bradow, the partnership is grounded in shared values and a long-standing commitment to community.
“We’ve been honoured to support The Boss Boxing previously through our Community Grants Program,” Ms Bradow says.
“Seeing firsthand the transformative work they do at the intersection of sport and community service made it clear this was a partnership worth deepening.
“The connection runs deeper than funding. It reflects Kedron-Wavell’s commitment to being a truly inclusive organisation—one that champions cultural diversity, equity, and meaningful relationships with First Nations communities.”
“The Boss Boxing reflects so many of the values we hold close at Kedron-Wavell—care, connection and service.
“Their work uplifts individuals, supports families and strengthens our community.”
Looking ahead, Kedron-Wavell’s support will help The Boss Boxing continue offering wraparound services to those in need.
“Boxing is the best pre-employment program out there,” Mr Leone says.
“It teaches you to show up, push through, be accountable.
“These are skills that transfer to every part of life—career, relationships, education, everything.”
And while the gym welcomes everyone, it’s proud to be a First Nations gym grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander worldviews, cultural practices and the principle of self-determination.
“Self-determination is central to everything we do,” Mr Leone says.
“We want young mob to know that they can achieve – in sport, in work, in life.
“With the support of partners like Kedron-Wavell, we’re training the next generation of athletes—and empowering our community, one future at a time.”