Est. 1996 · Byron Bay
Making Rites of Passage Mainstream Again
Our Vision
To make Rites of Passage mainstream once again.
For thousands of years traditional communities globally have used Rites of Passage to guide their people through life’s critical transitions. In the modern age we’ve lost these rituals, and in turn, have lost many of our young people.
We are working to create a world where all people and communities thrive by reintroducing healthy Rites of Passage. We believe that by building strong communities, a healthy sense of belonging, and helping people discover their unique gifts and talents, we can support communities to thrive.
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Lives Touched
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Core Programs
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School Partners
What we stand for, always.
These aren’t words on a wall. They shape every program we design, every camp we run, and every school we partner with.
01
Connection
We heal through connection. With self, others, community, and the natural world.
02
Vulnerability
True strength is when we open up, not when we shut down.
03
Belonging
Every voice matters. Every story counts.
04
Support
A circle that holds each other without judgement.
05
Transformation
Change and growth that benefits the individual and their community.
06
Trailblazing
We’re reimagining Rites of Passage, challenging outdated systems, and leading the way for a more conscious, connected future.
Dr. Arne Rubinstein
Founder & Director
Medical Doctor (MBBS)
Executive courses — Harvard & Oxford Universities
Order of Australia (OAM) — 2024
30+ years in rites of passage work
450,000+ lives impacted across 25 countries
A globally recognised expert on Rites of Passage.
Arne Rubinstein, OAM is a globally recognised expert on Rites of Passage. He has attended executive courses at Harvard and Oxford Universities and in 2024 he was honoured with the Order of Australia (OAM).
With over three decades of experience, his transformational work has impacted over 450,000 individuals across 25 countries. Dr. Arne is dedicated to reintroducing healthy Rites of Passage into modern society.
After 15 years in Emergency Medicine, he left to set up programs that support organisations, families and individuals to thrive. His programs have gained recognition from major corporations and educational institutions worldwide.
Driven by a vision to reinstate healthy Rites of Passage into the mainstream again, Dr. Arne collaborates with diverse cultures and organisations, including schools around Australia and multiple Indigenous communities.
Sharing ancient wisdom with the modern world.
From camps for families to training for educators and speaking for organisations — ROPI’s work reaches every level of community.
Parent–Child
Camps
Deepen your bond with your child and learn how to support them through life’s critical transitions.
Training
Learn the foundations of authentic leadership for personal growth and the ability to facilitate transformation in others.
Schools
Build a healthy, resilient, connected school community with programs designed by ROPI and delivered by trained educators.
Speaking
Inspire your community with new wisdom and ideas. Dr. Arne speaks to organisations, schools, and communities worldwide.
The humans behind the work.
Real people who genuinely give a damn. Every person on this team shows up with their whole heart.
Voices that don't lend their names lightly.
“Their approach seamlessly blends ancient wisdom with modern educational practices, creating programs that resonate deeply with young people as they navigate the challenging transition to adulthood.”
Nick Johnstone
Former Principal, Bishop Druitt College
“The combination of practical tools, space for self-reflection, and connection to a like-minded group of humans was incredibly powerful. It helped me step into a more grounded, clear and compassionate version of myself as a leader, facilitator and human.”
Jen Ziegner
Founder, Mountains & Marathons
“It was life-changing. It gave me a framework for supporting others, but more importantly, it gave me clarity and courage in my own life. I’ve since brought this work to schools and communities and continue to see the ripple effects.”
Lars Verburg
Founder, Rites of Passage Netherlands
“This program has been the most meaningful and significant work we have ever been part of as high school teachers, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Dane Robinson
Dean of Studies, Somerset College
Belonging, mentorship, and a genuine moment of becoming.
We have been doing this work for over 30 years because young people deserve more than the world is currently offering them. If you are ready, we are here.