Empowering Our Younger Generation through Cultural Grounding and Community-Led Initiatives.

On August 22, 2024, Kubirriwarra Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation hosted a community information and consultation session at Mossman State School in North Queensland, supported by DATSIP. The event, facilitated by Kubirriwarra Yalanji Chairperson John Hartley, was well-attended, with over 50 representatives from government agencies, community service providers, Elders, and community members. Guest speakers included Jack Beetson from the Literacy for Life Foundation, who spoke on the crucial role of literacy and numeracy delivered by First Nation Peoples for First Nation Peoples, and Chris Anderson from GR8 Motivate, who discussed pathways to and alternative employment opportunities.

The day began with a formal smoking ceremony by Juan Walker and welcome by Kubirriwarra Elder, Janice Walker, followed by a welcome to the school by two ILF students and a performance by the Nganjin Muruku Wurinya (We All Dance Together) Mossman State School dancers. Guests then proceeded to the Parade Room, where they were welcomed by the school principal and the formal presentation began.

Guest speakers included Jack Beetson from the Literacy for Life Foundation, who spoke on the crucial role of literacy and numeracy delivered by First Nation Peoples for First Nation Peoples, and Chris Anderson from GR8 Motivate, who discussed pathways to and alternative employment opportunities.

John Hartley outlined what we mean by Health Equity and discussed the issues facing young people including the high levels of youth detention in Queensland and the ongoing impacts of this injustice on children and community. A plan to develop the Yalangkurr Wellbeing Centre was presented. This will provide a whole of life and whole of community approach to addressing the ongoing colonisation of Bama.