Bawamarra Cultural Services
Dec 22, 2024
Last month, I had the privilege of presenting at the THRIVE 2024 National Permanency Summit, an event dedicated to building better futures for children and young people in out-of-home care (OOHC). Held at Allianz Stadium, the summit brought together professionals, advocates, and leaders to share innovative approaches and strategies to improve outcomes for vulnerable children.
During my session, titled "Bawamarra Cultural Services: Fostering Healing and Growth Through the Buwanha Mentoring Program", I shared the transformative power of culturally responsive and trauma-informed mentoring. I drew from my own lived experience—growing up in a home affected by addiction and violence, navigating trauma, and eventually finding strength through culture and community.
The Buwanha Mentoring Program, meaning "grow" in Wiradjuri, embodies a vision for empowering Indigenous youth in OOHC by fostering cultural pride, emotional resilience, and connection to Country, family, and community. The positive reception from the audience reminded me of the importance of culturally grounded spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported.
I am deeply inspired by the passion and dedication of everyone I met at THRIVE 2024. The stories shared and connections made reaffirmed my commitment to breaking cycles of trauma and nurturing growth in young people through mentoring that is as holistic as it is impactful.
The journey doesn’t end here. Together, we can create more spaces for healing, empowerment, and cultural connection, ensuring that every young person has the chance to thrive.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful summit and to share the mission of Bawamarra Cultural Services. Thank you to everyone who made this event possible and to those who joined us on this journey.
