Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people celebrate culture during NAIDOC Week

headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation will celebrate NAIDOC Week by sharing the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to honour their history, culture and achievements.

This year’s theme, ‘Voice, Treaty, Truth’ seeks to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s unique place in Australian history and society today. For generations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have looked for significant and lasting change. NAIDOC Week encourages all Australians to join in on the journey to finish the unfinished business of the country.

The stories, captured on film and published this week on the headspace website and Facebook page, highlight what NAIDOC means to three young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and aim to spark an important conversation about what the celebration means to young people – both indigenous and non-indigenous.

Bianca, a proud Yawaru and Karajarri woman and newly appointed headspace National Youth Reference Group member said culture and identity are so much more than words to her, it’s about knowing her lore, culture, song lines, and connectedness to country.

“We’re all on different journeys, and some of us are lucky to be immersed in our culture fully and some of us are on our journey to establish and reconnect to our culture,” she said.

Maddy, a proud Torres Strait Islander woman and fellow newly appointed headspace National Youth Reference Group member is one of those young people still seeking knowledge of her culture.

“I would really like to try and find where I’m from so I can learn more about who I am,” she said.

headspace Board member and proud Worora and Walmajarri woman, Katina Law said the nation’s history and heritage begins with Aboriginal people.

“NAIDOC week gives us an opportunity to recognise the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As a nation, we should take this time to reflect on the valuable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples make to our country,” said Law.

headspace Acting CEO, Julia Smith is proud to share these stories of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to learn and show others how they connect with their culture.

“We are proud to offer all young people living in Australia an opportunity and platform to share their story and their experience with mental health.

“This NAIDOC Week, we encourage everyone to learn the history of this important celebration, and hear the stories of these young people so that together, we can walk with our nation’s people and move forward to true reconciliation.” Julia said.

To view the headspace celebration of culture video and read the stories of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people visit, https://headspace.org.au/blog/connecting-to-your-culture-and-identity/.

If you or someone you know is going through a tough time, visit our website to find your nearest centre or call eheadspace on 1800 650 890.

For media enquiries please contact: Bronte Tarn-Weir, headspace Communications Manager on 0413 025 385 or btarnweir@headspace.org.au.