Shooting Stars is proudly celebrating NAIDOC Week as the Program believes success starts with a strong identity to culture.
This year’s theme, Heal Country, calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect and maintain all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage.
Healing Country means embracing First Nation’s cultural knowledge and understanding of Country as part of Australia’s national heritage and that the culture and values of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders are respected equally to the cultures and values of all Australians.
Committed to strengthening participants cultural identities, Shooting Stars provides opportunities to gain cultural understanding and knowledge through Leadership and Reward Camps where participants engage with strong Aboriginal leaders and participate in on-country learning.
Kija and Jaru woman Skye Polkinhorne, a Year 9 Shooting Stars participant in Halls Creek, explained the power of being on her Country, Spring Vale and Osmond.
“When I am on my Country, I feel happy and safe, and that I can achieve anything,” said Skye.
“Being on my Country makes me feel connected to my culture, as we learn about the land. I feel proud of my culture when I am out on Country. I still have a lot to learn, and I learn something new each time I am on my Country or the other girl’s Country.”
Skye attributes her cultural knowledge and pride to the Shooting Stars Reward Camps.
“Shooting Stars helps us learn about our culture by taking us out on Country where we participate in cultural activities such as Smoking Ceremonies, cooking bush tucker and learning to sing in language,” said Skye.
“It’s a great thing, it helps us girls get to know more about our culture as well as each other.”
Shooting Stars Chairperson, Dr Glenda Kickett explained the importance of supporting the younger generations to see culture as a strength in families and communities.
“Culture can be quite empowering. When you know your culture and where you come from, it enables you to build pride and confidence in yourself,” said Kickett.
“I think it’s really important that Shooting Stars does these sorts of activities with our young women. It not only builds pride and self-esteem but knowing where you come from helps you navigate where you are going.”
“I wish Shooting Stars was around when I was a young girl.”
Shooting Stars engages with the communities it operates in to coordinate a number of Reward Camps out on Country to help participants strengthen their cultural identity to give them the best foundations for future success.
