Fred’s passion for helping young people achieve their potential

Fred Alale, a passionate member of The Huddle advisory committee at North Melbourne Football Club, says he was honoured to be appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

Through The Huddle, which works with some of the most iconic sporting clubs in the world to help young people learn, grow and belong, Mr Alale said he loved mentoring others “to achieve their potential and giving back to make the community”.

“I am also passionate about showcasing the skills, talents and impacts of African Australians, among other multicultural communities, across Victoria and Australia,” he said.

Born in Nigeria, Mr Alale emigrated from the UK to Australia in 2010, and has been “honoured, privileged and appreciative of the immense opportunities Australia has provided”.

It truly is a land of opportunities that I’m proud to call home

His prestigious award recognised his enormous contributions to the African Australian communities in Victoria. He serves on multiple boards apart from The Huddle’s advisory committee, including chair of the African Music and Culture Festival, and is the treasurer of Africa Day Australia Inc.

“I feel it is a privilege to work with an awesome and talented group of people on The Huddle advisory committee at North Melbourne Football Club as I get to contribute to making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable youths and young adults by helping them learn, grow and belong,” he said.

“I am passionate about using my skills and experience to mentor others to achieve their potential, and giving back to make the community better. I am also passionate about showcasing the skills, talents and impacts of African Australians, among other multicultural communities, across Victoria and Australia. 

Mr Alale added the AFL and sports in general was a great tool for social inclusion and to help “break down barriers between cultures as it promotes a common language or team camaraderie”.

He encourages those who set a goal in life to adopt his mantra, “it is not how successful I am or how far up I get that matters, it’s how many people I can create similar opportunities for that is a true measure of success”.  

Alongside Mr Alale on the advisory committee of The Huddle and a committee member of the African Music and Cultural Festival, is Gary Lee who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the community through a range of organisations. •