Inner Warrior: my journey from a life of crime to a leader of change by Jaye Pukepuke

Jaye Pukepuke’s memoir charts his extraordinary journey from the depths of crime to the heights of community leadership. As a former rugby league player, he doesn’t shy away from confronting the harsh realities of his past including armed robberies, time spent in prison and the crushing loss of his dreams.

“It was an addiction, like gambling, or drugs, or drinking. There was a huge rush of adrenaline, a sense of gratification. Then there was the comedown, and it left me wanting the feeling even more. So I had to keep on going. And by the end I had committed 15 armed robberies, before the police caught me. I’ve always said I’m glad they did get me, because I don’t think I would have ever kicked that habit on my own - and eventually, someone would have got hurt,” says Jaye, describing himself as a wayward 19 year old “sticking up gas stations for cash, cigarettes and phone cards, I wanted to have all the good things in life without doing any of the work to earn them.”

Although he served six years in prison, he says it took another decade to get his life back on track. Prison was more than a sentence, it was a major detour that underscored just how challenging it is to rebuild a life after incarceration.

Jaye writes with unflinching honesty about the true cost of his actions, but this is also a story of hope and the power of second chances. His personal transformation becomes communal through his founding of Bros for Change, a programme aimed at empowering young people. Drawing on his heritage, and Te Ao Māori Jaye fosters self-esteem, self-respect, and self-management in those who need it most.

This is essential reading for anyone interested in stories of redemption, the strength found in second chances, and the vital role of community and cultural identity in healing and change. Jaye Pukepuke’s memoir is not just a personal triumph, it also shares a message of hope, transformation and the belief that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. Learn more about Bros For Change.

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Harper Collins