Jack Thompson, an acclaimed Australian actor and a cherished cultural icon, serves as the esteemed patron of the IFProject. Renowned for his compelling performances on both screen and stage, Jack's deep, resonant voice and charismatic presence have not only entertained audiences worldwide but have also been instrumental in championing causes close to his heart. As the patron of the IFProject, Jack lends his voice to the pivotal role of narrating the foundational If poem, bringing a profound depth and authenticity to its inspiring verses. His involvement has been crucial in elevating the project's reach and impact, helping to convey the importance of mental wellness and resilience. Jack's commitment to the IFProject underscores his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the community, particularly in supporting mental wellbeing initiatives that offer practical and accessible resources.
Clint Hoffmann is the founder of the IFProject, whose personal experiences and passion for mental wellness catalysed the creation of this impactful initiative. Driven by a deep commitment to providing accessible mental health resources, Clint has utilised his background in EdTech to develop the IFProject into a platform that offers digital tools and supportive content. His empathy, innovation, and relentless drive motivates him to make a difference in the lives of others. Through the IFProject, Clint aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health among men and to foster a community where individuals are empowered to seek help and support. His dedication not only inspires those around him but also sets a powerful example of how personal adversity can be transformed into a force for widespread positive change.
Michael ‘Kaspa’ Kasprowicz, a former Australian cricketer known for his fierce fast bowling, serves as an ambassador for the IFProject. Throughout his career, Kaspa represented Australia in numerous international matches, becoming a beloved figure in the cricketing world for his skill and sportsmanship. Beyond the cricket field, Kaspa has dedicated himself to supporting mental wellness initiatives, bringing his leadership, resilience, and passion to the forefront of the IFProject. As an ambassador, he plays a pivotal role in promoting the project’s mission and engaging the community, particularly through sports and public events. His deep commitment to the cause is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact, using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness and to help men find the support they need to navigate life’s challenges. Kaspa's involvement significantly enhances the IFProject's visibility and effectiveness, inspiring others to join in supporting mental wellness across Australia and beyond.
Barry Hogg is a mental wellbeing therapist and a vital contributor to the IFProject, particularly known for his insightful presence in the IFProject’s 'How' mental wellness video content. With extensive experience in counselling and wellbeing, Barry brings a deep understanding of mental health challenges and therapeutic interventions. His approachable demeanour and expert knowledge make him an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance and support through theIFProject's digital platforms. In the 'How' series, Barry effectively communicates complex psychological concepts in an accessible and relatable manner, empowering viewers to take proactive steps towards their mental wellness. His commitment to the IFProject not only enhances the quality of the content but also ensures that it resonates with a diverse audience, providing practical tools and strategies to improve mental health and resilience.
The IFProject is honoured to collaborate with the renowned Australian artist, Geoff Todd, whose exceptional talent has brought a unique visual dimension to our initiative. Geoff meticulously crafted the 12 IF pieces, each creatively aligned with one of the 12 stanzas from Rudyard Kipling's iconic poem If, which also correspond to the chapters in the IFGuide. Through a fusion of colour, texture, and profound symbolism, these artworks deeply enrich the narrative of the IFProject, offering viewers and readers a multi-sensory experience that enhances their understanding and engagement with the core principles of resilience and perseverance taught in the IFGuide. Geoff’s work not only captures the essence of the IFProject's educational goals but also serves as a lasting visual testament to the power of art in conveying complex emotional and psychological landscapes.
Carmel O’Sullivan, a clinical psychologist, is a pivotal figure within the IFProject, bringing her extensive expertise and deep compassion to her role. Known affectionately as 'Aunty Carmel' for her nurturing approach, Carmel specialises in mental health care and therapeutic interventions, particularly focusing on trauma and resilience. Her work within the IFProject involves not only providing clinical oversight for content and programs but also directly engaging with individuals through workshops and therapeutic sessions. Carmel's ability to blend clinical acumen with a genuine, caring demeanour allows her to connect profoundly with those she helps, making mental health concepts accessible and relatable. Her contributions are instrumental in shaping the IFProject's approach to mental wellness, ensuring that it remains scientifically sound while also deeply empathetic and supportive.
D'arcy Short, a dynamic cricketer and a star of the Big Bash League, serves as an esteemed ambassador for the IFProject. As a proud Aboriginal athlete who has risen through the ranks from the Northern Territory to play for Australia in T20 and One Day cricket, D'arcy embodies resilience and dedication. His remarkable achievements include winning the highly publicised Player of the League title twice, earning him the moniker 'Box Office' for his thrilling performances. D'arcy's commitment to mental wellness and community support is evident in his active involvement with the IFProject since its launch in Darwin in 2017. Notably, he has adorned his cricket bat with the IFProject sticker, a significant gesture aimed at raising awareness about the cause. D'arcy envisions a future where every young cricketer carries this message of support and awareness by featuring the IFMen app QR code on their bats, thereby promoting mental wellness within the sports community and beyond.
Peter Ball is a social impact specialist whose strategic insights and profound commitment to innovation significantly enhance the IFProject. As a close friend and staunch believer in the vision of founder Clint Hoffmann, Peter brings a wealth of experience in developing strategies that drive meaningful change, particularly in the realm of mental wellness. His expertise lies in aligning project goals with impactful outcomes, ensuring that each initiative not only reaches its target audience but also creates lasting positive effects within the community. Peter's role in the IFProject involves advising on strategic direction, enhancing program effectiveness, and exploring new avenues for impact through cutting-edge solutions. His passion for making a difference is matched by his methodical approach to problem-solving, making him an invaluable asset to the IFProject team as they continue to innovate and expand their reach in the mental wellness sector.