Blake Griffith, a 26-year-old member of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation’s 2025 squad, sees running as more than just a physical challenge. For him, it’s a way to connect with his heritage and exhibit the resilience and strength of Indigenous leaders. Training for the New York City Marathon in November, Griffith embraces the mental and physical boundaries running helps him overcome.
Aside from his personal growth, Griffith is dedicated to giving back to his community. As a mentor for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and a coach for an Aussie Rules team, he aims to inspire and support young Indigenous individuals, echoing the guidance he received from a principal who prioritized engaging Indigenous students.
The Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF) not only supports athletes like Griffith but also focuses on nurturing community leaders and fostering positive change within First Nations communities. The foundation, which includes renowned figures like Johnathan Thurston and Lance Franklin, is committed to raising funds to expand its programs and events.
IMF’s Make Your Mark campaign encourages Australians to donate by participating in barefoot runs and offers digital playing cards featuring prominent athletes. The foundation’s goal is to double the number of free and inclusive events it organizes, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and support within Indigenous communities.
Griffith’s involvement with IMF has been transformative on a personal level. He emphasizes the significance of connecting to something greater than oneself and the importance of mental health support and community solidarity. By leading by example and showcasing the strength of young Indigenous leaders, Griffith aims to uplift and inspire others, creating a positive impact that extends beyond his immediate circle.
Griffith’s journey with IMF has already begun to influence the young people he interacts with, illustrating the potential for a ripple effect of positive change within Indigenous communities. By embodying resilience, leadership, and determination, Griffith epitomizes the spirit of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation and the broader movement towards empowerment and support for First Nations peoples.
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