The background
The Yawa Network, named from the Boonwurrung word for "journeying together”, was established to reimagine resilience systems through the lens of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wisdom. This initiative, supported by the TACSI team, brings together First Nations peoples to explore and address the interconnected pillars of Country, culture, climate, and health.
Since its inception in 2021, Yawa has provided a space for First Nations communities who live on the five Kulin Nations (Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurong, Wathaurong, Woiwurrung, and Boonwurrung) in Victoria to connect and share their cultural knowledge, experiences and expertise, and host listening circles in order to create a strong First Nations-led network of healing and connection.
The vision
The purpose of Yawa is to nurture a self-sustaining First Nations-led network that not only strengthens community resilience but also promotes the wide appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wisdom.
By organising on-Country listening circles and annual in-person events, Yawa facilitates the sharing of First Nations knowledge and fosters collaboration between generations, between First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, and between places.
The approach
In Year 1, Yawa's core group conducted several on-Country listening circles, engaging with local First Nations communities to learn and share wisdom relating to Country, climate, culture and health.
These visits, coupled with cultural events that bring together First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, like the Millowl (Phillip Island) Whale Festival, have been important in building connections and gathering insights on what community needs to come together. Yawa's emphasis on slow, deliberate relationship-building ensures cultural safety and inclusivity, allowing the network to grow organically and sustainably.
Our approach foregrounds First Nations practices such as deep listening and storytelling, and creating safe spaces where people can connect without judgement. The network emphasises cultural grounding and the importance of First Nations leadership in tackling complex issues such as climate change and community health.
The insights
1.
Cultural safety
Creating spaces for deep listening and storytelling is crucial for nurturing trust and engagement.
2.
Youth engagement
Creating spaces for deep listening and storytelling is crucial for nurturing trust and engagement.
3.
Country Connection
On-Country visits strengthened cultural identity and provided healing spaces for participants.
4.
Collaborative Leadership
Shared roles and responsibilities within the network promoted collective ownership and sustainability.
What’s next
Yawa will continue to elevate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wisdom, engaging Kulin Nation communities and creating opportunities for deeper cultural connection.
The network plans to continue expanding its reach and impact through hosting more listening circles on Country with communities of all ages, further sharing its four-pillar approach to resilience and healing.
Join the Yawa journey and support our mission to strengthen community resilience through the wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Connect with us to learn more about our listening circles and how you can get involved. Learn more about Yawa on their website and follow Yawa on Instagram.