2023 Victorian Father of the Year: Gabriel Carazo Takes Local Action
YMCA Victoria is honoured to announce Gabriel Carazo as the 2023 Victorian Father of the Year. Gab has emerged as a beacon of light in Victoria's Macedon Ranges, a region struggling with alarming statistics about isolated men and their mental health.
Founding the RAD Dads (Responsive and Active) community, Gab has created spaces for open discussions about challenges facing new and expectant fathers; addressing challenges identified in the recent study on male identity in Macedon Ranges.
“It's all about offering more alternatives for new dads. Our focus is on action, not just conversation. Through RAD Dads, we've tapped into dads' individual interests and hobbies to motivate them.” said Gab.
Addressing long-standing issues like social isolation and the accompanying impact on men's mental health, Gab's RAD Dads group supports the local community by moving away from traditional stereotypes and cultivating a stronger, healthier image of fatherhood.
Gab’s hope is that the approach he has developed can be easily replicated elsewhere. Inspiring others to take his lead and form a RAD Dads in their local community.
I envision RAD Dads becoming a model that can be adapted to various local communities. It doesn't require special qualifications; it simply requires motivated individuals willing to make time and create connections. It's about fostering a space where dads can bond over shared interests, from mowing lawns to flying kites, and in doing so, they enhance their own well-being while setting positive examples for their kids.
Gab's motivation, rooted in his own anticipation of fatherhood, inspired profound personal changes. Keen on being actively involved in his children's lives, he refocused his efforts towards prioritising family time.
Nominated by his partner Andie for the statewide award, Gab’s commitment to creating a tight-knit and supportive community echoes directly with the study's recommendation for interventions to enhance social connectedness amongst men in the region.
Please visit RAD Dads for further details.