Issue:

26,2004

Page:

10-11

Abstract

Cover Profile in pictures and words

Keywords:

Young fathers, children, families

What is it with young men today showing off their offspring as though it’s something to be proud of.  

Kori Bragg is one such guy. “I look at children as trophies - certificates of achievement. Something to be proud of. Something you want to go on about and say "Hey, look at this, this is mine, I made it." “

And if that’s not macho enough for you, take this one:

“It makes you feel nice to be able to provide for your family, and not only to provide but to treat them as well. I'd like to be able to give them a lot more than I can give them at the moment. There's a lot of things that I'd like that I can't buy, but that's not so important. It's much more important that [my partner] and baby have what they need and want.”

At 25, he certainly keeps the babes coming. Partner Candice is pregnant again, and they are expecting a girl in September. They have a son, Kairo, about 18 months old, and Kori has another son, Jordan (7), from a previous relationship (all pictured left).

Not that it’s always easy managing the tribe. There’s always a danger that Jordan, who stays with dad every weekend, feels left out of the cosiness of dad’s “new” family. Says Kori:

“I wish I didn't have to give him back [at the end of the weekend]. I'm trying to make him a part of my new family as much as I can.”

He has talked with his former partner and with Jordan to see if there is any chance to have shared custody, and according to Kori it is looking good.

So what’s the attraction about fatherhood for Kori?

“Enjoying your children - that's what makes me feel good about being a dad.”

And:

“Watching them do something that they do simply because you taught them.”

Proud of being a dad? You bet!