Encouraging the next generation of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to dream big

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday 15th May 2018.

An academy encouraging the next generation of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders to dream big will be launched in Melbourne this Wednesday.

The Buldau Yioohgen Youth Leadership Academy brings together community, cultural and sporting groups to support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as they strive towards their educational, employment and leadership goals. Buldau Yioohgen means “big dreams” in Wurundjeri language.

The program is facilitated by The Long Walk and Anglicare Victoria and involves Aboriginal organisations including Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative and Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative.

It links young people with community Elders, and industry and cultural experiences with partner organisations including Tennis Australia, Opera Australia, Australian National Academy of Music, Melbourne Victory FC, Racing Victoria and Federation University.

Anglicare Victoria Community Development Manager David Law said the program has been through a successful pilot phase and the launch signifies the collaboration of organisations to offer the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders’ guidance and encouragement to achieve their future goals.

“Buldau Yioohgen is all about promoting opportunities for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people so they will achieve their full potential. The organisations involved provide invaluable opportunities for all the young people who take part.

“Following the program, the young people return to local communities and those over the age of 15 form a youth advisory committee to advise the board at their local Aboriginal Co-operative, as well as paid work experience with one of the academy partners. They are also encouraged to form a Youth Advisory Committee in their community.”

The Long Walk General Manager Leanne Brooke praised the Academy.

“Buldau Yioohgen is a wonderful example of a range of organisations working collaboratively to develop future leaders and provide opportunities to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander young people.

“The Long Walk is all about promoting, celebrating, empowering and developing Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are proud to partner with Anglicare and the other partner organisations who are all committed to achieving the same outcomes – resilient, proud and strong Indigenous young peoples,” she said.

Interview opportunities available with David Law, Leanne Brooke, Aunty Pam Pedersen and young people from the program. Representatives from each partner organisation will be in attendance.

Further enquiries: Sarah Baird, Senior Media Advisor, Anglicare Victoria. 9412 6173, 0419 035 117,
media@anglicarevic.org.au

UPDATE Read our Buldau Yioohgen Newsletter