Bawamarra Cultural Services
Oct 31, 2024
At Bawamarra Cultural Services, we believe in the power of connection to culture as a source of healing, resilience, and identity. The Buwanha Mentoring Program was born from this belief, designed to support young people—particularly Indigenous youth in Out-of-Home Care (OOHC), non-Indigenous youth, and those with disabilities—in discovering their unique strengths, cultural identity, and emotional resilience.
What Makes Buwanha Unique?
The word Buwanha, meaning “to grow” in Wiradjuri, reflects the essence of the program. Grounded in the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) framework, Buwanha combines psychological expertise, lived experiences, and Indigenous spirituality to provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed environment that addresses each young person’s cultural, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs.
Through mentoring, our program fosters:
Cultural Identity: We guide mentees to reconnect with their culture, build pride in their identity, and engage in cultural practices such as language immersion and cultural knowledge-sharing.
Resilience and Belonging: Cultural activities and connections with Elders, mentors, and Country help mentees develop a strong sense of belonging and resilience.
Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: Through culturally safe and therapeutic mentoring, we support young people to navigate life’s challenges, overcome adversity, and grow with confidence.
A Culturally Safe and Inclusive Approach
The Buwanha Mentoring Program stands out for its inclusivity. It serves not only Indigenous youth but also non-Indigenous children and those with disabilities, creating a culturally safe and supportive environment for all. This inclusivity is built on principles of respect, deep listening (Dadirri), and honouring cultural protocols, ensuring that each mentee feels valued and understood.
Building the Future of Indigenous Mentoring, Together
In future blogs, we’ll dive deeper into specific aspects of the Buwanha Mentoring Program, exploring the importance of connection to Country, cultural immersion, and the ways our mentees are empowered to thrive. Each week, we’ll share success stories, insights, and practical tips for embedding Indigenous perspectives, whether in mentoring or workplace settings, offering readers a firsthand look at the transformative impact of cultural-centered mentoring.
By nurturing a deep respect for culture and promoting social and emotional wellbeing, the Buwanha Mentoring Program offers youth the tools they need to grow and embrace a future grounded in their identity and strengths.
Stay Tuned!