The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation lauds the achievements of 119 young First Nations graduates of the Nallei Jerring program.
Nallei Jerring provides a safe space for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to join and unite in their shared cultural heritage, grow in confidence, and build a sense of community with others who share their culture.
The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WBCF) is a nation-leading organisation that uses the power of sport to deliver life-changing programs and create impact that inspires.
Nallei Jerring is part of WBCF’s broader mission to foster community development through a range of social and educational initiatives, from Melbourne’s Inner West through to Ballarat and the South Australian border.
Nallei Jerring takes place in Melbourne’s Inner West and Ballarat and through a series of workshops and guest speakers, aims to build pride and knowledge in the hearts and minds of its participants.
The program culminated in a Camp and Yarning circle, giving the participants an opportunity to be heard.
“In bigger spaces, it’s harder to share, but here we could talk about our culture and feel heard,” explained one participant.
“We built strong bonds here. It’s great to meet other young Indigenous people who understand where you’re coming from.”
Katen Balla facilitates Nallei Jerring in Melbourne and Ballarat, and sees firsthand the value in immersing First Nations young people in culture.
“Cultural erasure of First Nations identity means that some of the young people have lost connection to a significant part of their identity, and that’s hard,” he said.
“Nallei Jerring can be their first encounter with Indigenous culture and an opportunity to learn but for others, it is a safe place for them to express themselves.”
A key highlight for many participants was the opportunity to attend camp on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, where they connected with culture and each other on a deeper level.
The experience was enriched by yarning sessions with Elders, who shared stories and wisdom, creating a safe space for learning and reflection.
Participants embraced the chance to push their limits and step outside their comfort zones, engaging in thrilling activities like zipline and the leap of faith.
A particularly memorable moment was a workshop led by the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) and Deadly Choices, a program dedicated to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to make positive, healthy choices for themselves and their communities. This experience left a lasting impact, reinforcing the importance of health, culture, and community connection.
Looking ahead, graduates expressed excitement about applying what they’d learned. “This program has opened up new opportunities for me,” said another participant.
“I’m ready to take on more challenges, knowing that I have the skills to succeed.”
Nallei Jerring is made possible by Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Major Partner, WorkSafe Victoria, as well as program partners, CDC Victoria, Love the Game, ADF, Greater Western Water (in Melbourne), Community Bank Buninyong (in Ballarat) and Department of Education.
