The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Nallei Jerring Koori Youth Leadership Project held their 2018 graduation last Wednesday at VU Whitten Oval.
This year saw 19 students complete the six-month program, including James Mulliet who spoke to his peers at the graduation ceremony.
James said that the program had allowed him to mature as a leader, while helping him connect with indigenous culture and the broader Australian indigenous community.
“This year I have been able to grasp a greater meaning of leadership,” said James.
“I have completely changed my mind on (many) things, and I feel that this journey has been a forward step into becoming a mature voice in today’s society.”
Throughout the program, participants are encouraged to come together to tackle social issues that they feel strongly about.
“This group has shown me that we need to continue educating and giving these experiences to the younger members of Australia, as they will be our future leaders,” said James.
The Nallei Jerring Koori Youth Leadership Project graduation occurred one day after the Club launched its first ever Reconciliation Action Plan in front of players, staff and community leaders at Victoria University Whitten Oval.
“I am amazed at the respect and willingness to learn that this great club has shown by releasing the Reconciliation Action Plan and providing the program that we are graduating from today,” said James.
“It means a lot to me that my favourite club provides such an opportunity for my culture and people.
“Thank you for teaching us about ourselves and what it takes to show great leadership.”
The Nallei-Jerring Koori Youth Leadership Project aims to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait islander young people by providing opportunities through the Western Bulldogs as a way of encouraging leadership within the local Aboriginal community.
For more information about the Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership Project, visit westernbulldogs.com.au/foundation
