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Emergency assistanceCulture, spirituality, language, lore, family and identity all play a major role on a daily basis.
“My culture and identity are so much more than the words culture and identity.” Bianca, a Yawaru Karajarri woman from Broome, says.
“It’s knowing my language, knowing my lore, knowing my culture, knowing my songlines; my connectedness to my country.”
Bianca has been fortunate to learn about her culture and identity from a young age. Finding strength with the support from her family especially when she's experiencing difficulties.
"Culture and identity can be a constant source of strength. Whether you’re going through a rough patch or feeling at the top of your game".
Connecting with Culture
"It’s important to overcome feelings of disconnection from your culture and identity". "Remembering your own story is the most important thing". Maddy Wall from Ipswich, Queensland says.
“I’ve been disconnected from my culture, and I’d like to try to find where I’m from, so I can learn more about my culture side of things.”
If you would like to find out more about who you are and where you’re from, there are resources out there to help you.
You can reach out to organisations and services and get involved in local events that will help you meet your local community.
NAIDOC week held on 7 -14 July annually and it is a great time of year to put yourself out there. you can also get involved by volunteering and giving back to the community.
It is a life long journey for all to connecting with Culture and Country so don’t get disheartened if you feel like you are not connected right now.
Accessing support
“There’s no shame in seeking help from services that are here to help us,” Bianca says.
“We’re lucky that we have services that are set up to provide that support. Utilising services like headspace can help you handle situations in a safe environment. There’s no shame in seeking help.”
While feeling connected or disconnected to your culture can have an impact on your life, how you feel presently does not have to be how you well always feel.
Celebrating who you are as a young person and learning about who you are and where you're from is a journey you can start whenever you are ready.
Talk to your family, elder or a community member and you can always reach out to your local headspace centre.
