Canberra’s Kulture Break launches Unstoppable 24 to tackle inactivity and poor mental health in Australia’s youth

Posted on 12 May, 2026

For over 24 years, local charity Kulture Break has been using dance to transform and empower the wellbeing of young people in Canberra.

It’s a mission that has seen them impact more than 100,000 Canberrans and over 500,000 young people across Australia and around the world – and now, they’re taking their work one step further with the recent announcement of the Unstoppable 24 schools movement challenge.

A free week-long school movement challenge, Founder and CEO of Kulture Break Francis Owusu says the initiative aims to tackle a shocking statistic – that 70 percent of children aged two to 17 do not meet daily physical activity guidelines in Australia.

“Unstoppable 24 is about more than exercise, it’s about giving students a daily anchor in a world that’s moving faster than they are,” he says.

“We’re seeing the flow‑on effects – lower confidence, higher anxiety, and kids feeling disconnected from themselves and each other. More than ever, we see the need for a program like Unstoppable 24.”

Encouraging primary and secondary school students to complete just 24 minutes of movement each day, the initiative is designed to help schools build belonging, boost learning readiness, and strengthen resilience – all without adding pressure to teachers.

For Francis, the idea behind Unstoppable 24 first surfaced in 2021. He watched the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns on young people, and says that he couldn’t help but wonder how he could create something simple that encourages kids to get moving with their mates, tackle inactivity, and support better mental health.

“We were seeing kids stuck at home, spending more time on devices, less active, and becoming more disconnected from genuine connection with others,” Francis explains.

“From there – through our work at Kulture Break using movement to build resilience – we continued to shape the idea. We spoke with educators and parents and trialled it with young people. The feedback was really positive, which gave us the confidence to launch it this year.”

Francis Owusu, Kulture Break Founder.

Tackling the alarming increase in screen time in young people is an important focus of Unstoppable 24. Research from Macquarie University shows Australian primary and secondary school children are now spending 6.34 recreational hours a day on screens – up from 4.24 hours in 2017.

Highlighting a growing imbalance between screen time and active play, Francis says that moving for 24 minutes a day is achievable, memorable and sends a powerful message.

“Small, consistent habits can transform wellbeing,” says Francis.

“Twenty‑four minutes is long enough to meaningfully lift mood, energy, and learning readiness – but short enough that every school can fit it into their day without disruption…For kids who feel overwhelmed, 24 minutes gives them the chance to be active and let go with their teammates, and that’s the point.”

Personal trainer, author and television personality Michelle Bridges has also joined the initiative as an ambassador. With more than two decades helping Australians build healthier habits under her belt, she says that Unstoppable 24 gives students a simple, uplifting way to feel better every day.

“Movement plays a crucial role in how young people feel – it can lift confidence, improve mood and strengthen social connection,” explains Michelle.

“When done with friends, it becomes more enjoyable, which helps it develop into a lasting habit…I’m proud to support a program that helps young people strengthen their confidence, connection and everyday wellbeing.”

“When Michelle heard about Unstoppable 24 she immediately understood the heart of it,” adds Francis.

“Having her support brings national visibility, but more importantly, it brings a voice parents trust. She helps us reach families in a way that feels real and relatable.”

Francis Owusu dancing with students.

Unstoppable 24 will take place from Monday 7 until Friday 11 September, and schools can now register to be part of the challenge. Encouraging both students and teachers to move to raise $24 each, the money will go directly back into Kulture Break’s wellbeing programs. This will allow them to deliver more movement‑based resilience workshops, support teachers with practical tools, and ensure schools in every location can access the program at no cost.

Francis says that he hopes the challenge leaves students feeling proud of themselves.

“My vision is to empower one million “Unstoppable” students across Australia by 2030 – young people who prioritise their wellbeing, stay active together, and build resilience habits that last well beyond the school years.”

“When we help children move, connect, and feel confident in themselves, we’re not just improving their day, we’re shaping their future.”

For more information or to register your school, visit unstoppable24mc.com.