Metan Bacir Kapula / Confit Mentee's Story

Who am I? Just a young and dumb kid, trying to make money for the family. I took the fast route instead of the slow one. That's who I am.

My name is Metan Bacir Kapula. They call me the Turkish Stallion, that's better, you know. Whoever shows me respect gets it back, with more love. That's my way. Just don't cross my wrong path.

I've been out of juvenile detention for about five or six months now. Finding a job with Confit was a game changer for me. One of the boys from Juvi introduced me this gig, and since then, I've been working hard and feeling grateful.

I come from a Turkish family and we're a pretty normal, middle Eastern style strict but full of love. Everything's for family and that's why, as a man, you try to do the providing thing leading to trouble with the law. But now, with Joe and the boys, I'm getting better.

I got into trouble trying to make money for the family. We came from a broken house and I felt like I had to do my part, provide something to help. I did 10 months inside, got out for 10 days, and was back in for another 10 months. They dropped the charges because I didn't do anything. Just allegations, but they made me the better man I am today.

When Joe and the lads came into detention, it was like we could all relate. We've been through the same stuff, so it's good to have someone to talk to about it. Here at the gym it’s all about working and having fun at the same time, it's more than just a job. It's like a brotherhood, a friendship.

If you're getting out of detention, believe me when I say, these guys are brothers. They really looked after us, and I'm appreciative to Confit.

What's next for me? Inshallah, I'll start boxing again. That's been my dream since I was young and I want to stay out of trouble. My dream is probably to retire on an island in Turkey, nothing too much. Just casual, you know. Horses, quiet existence and a small house.

Tips on life? Look after yourself. To look after the people you love, you've gotta look after yourself. Stay healthy and strong-minded.

To Joe and the boys, just thank you. I appreciate it, straight out. That's it.

Reflections

Metan's story is a visceral reminder of the complexities that young people face when growing up in challenging environments. His journey from the streets to striving for a better life is a powerful narrative of resilience and redemption. It's a candid look into the realities that many young people face, and the crucial role that support networks play in their rehabilitation and growth.

His focus on family, the struggle for respect, and the pursuit of dreams reflect a universal human experience, yet underscored by the unique challenges of his background and circumstances. Metan's determination to turn his life around, his gratitude for the support he received, and his simple yet profound life philosophy offer hope and inspiration.

His story, raw and unfiltered, speaks volumes about the potential for change and the power of having the right support at the right time. It's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unyielding desire to pursue a better, more fulfilling life.