1. Initiation Many Aboriginal people in Australia hold rituals to prepare boys for manhood. The Elders of the tribe decide when the boys are ready – usually between 11 and 13. They go to live in the outback. The boys’ bodies are painted and they dance with the leader of the clan. The Elders tell stories about practical tasks such as hunting and the use of herbs to heal people.

2. Initiation These boys in Tanzania are wearing special clothes as part of their coming of age ceremony.

3. Initiation In Japan, Seijin No Hi or Coming of Age Day is a celebrated every January. There are speeches by local leaders. Young women wear bright kimonos and men wear new suits. They are given a gift and they promise to become responsible members of society. They may visit temples or shrines or celebrate in town with friends.

4. Initiation In Mexico, girls celebrate their Quinceanera on their 15 th birthday. After this a girl is seen as ready to marry though many now choose to wait. The girl’s mother crowns her with a tiara. Her father takes away her satin slippers – a symbol of childhood and gives her a pair of high heeled shoes! There is a big party like a wedding.