As I reflect on my 5-day experience visiting the Diagrama youth detention centers in Spain, guided by David, the CEO of Diagrama, I am filled with a mixture of emotions and a strong sense of conviction. The stark contrast between what I witnessed in these centers and what I have experienced in Australian youth detention centers is both eye-opening and deeply troubling.

In Australia, every visit to a youth detention center leaves me feeling depleted and haunted by the experiences of the young people there. The oppressive atmosphere, the lack of compassion and engagement between guards, educators, and young people, and the overall punitive approach all contribute to a sense of hopelessness and despair. It's clear that the current system, built on an English legacy and influenced by the US model of punishment over support and understanding, is failing our young people and our society as a whole.

However, my experience in Spain has shown me that there is another way. From the moment I stepped into each Diagrama center, I was struck by the positive energy, the laughter, and the strong relationships between the young people and their educators. It was evident that the young people were not just being punished, but were being given the opportunity to build resilience, develop new skills, and work towards a brighter future. The Diagrama staff had high expectations for these young people and treated them with respect, compassion, and a genuine belief in their potential.

One of the most powerful moments of my visit was sitting down and talking with the young people themselves. As we discussed the conditions in Australian youth detention centers, they struggled to understand how such a punitive and dehumanizing approach could be considered acceptable or effective. They spoke about their own hopes and dreams, and the trust they had in their educators to support them on their journey. It was clear that they viewed their time in detention not as a punishment, but as an opportunity for growth and transformation.

The interviews and analysis of the Diagrama model only reinforce my belief that this approach can and must be implemented in Australia. The quantitative data, such as the significantly lower recidivism rates in Diagrama centers compared to Australian youth detention centers, provide compelling evidence of the model's effectiveness. The stories and experiences shared by the young people, educators, and staff offer powerful examples of how this approach can transform lives and communities.

Implementing the Diagrama model in Australia will undoubtedly require a significant shift in mindset, policy, and practice. It will require us to confront and challenge the deeply ingrained beliefs and systems that have perpetuated the current harmful approach to youth justice. However, the potential benefits are too great to ignore. By embracing a model that prioritizes education, rehabilitation, and positive relationships, we can create a youth justice system that not only reduces recidivism and enhances community safety but also helps young people to heal, grow, and thrive.

As I reflect on my experience in Spain, I am filled with a sense of hope and determination. I know that change is possible, and that the Diagrama model offers a roadmap for how we can achieve it. By sharing my experiences and the insights gained from this visit, I hope to inspire others to join me in advocating for a more compassionate, effective, and just approach to youth justice in Australia.

We owe it to our young people, our communities, and our society as a whole to do better. The time for change is now, and the Diagrama model shows us that a brighter, more hopeful future is within reach. Together, we can create a youth justice system that reflects our values, honours the potential of every young person, and helps to build a stronger, more resilient, and more equitable society for all.

‍