Scholars experience Aboriginal Dreaming in Sydney

Australia Awards Africa aims to showcase Australia’s unique cultural heritage by providing scholars opportunities to learn about the local history of their region while On-Award. On Sunday 21 April, 15 scholars convened at Sydney’s historical Cadman’s Cottage to experience the illi-Langi The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour.

The dreaming tour introduced participants to local Indigenous culture showing the connection between the natural environment and Aboriginal thinking. Scholars handled local vegetation while learning how the natural characteristics of plants were used to create shelter and tools, whilst marriage and sharing resources helped form connections between different Aboriginal ‘mobs’ to maintain peace.

Sustainable use of marine and natural resources is a key feature of Australian indigenous culture. Scholars were amazed to see how these communities promoted a no-waste culture long before sustainability became mainstreamed in recent years preventing extinction of endemic species prior to colonisation.

Using photographs and the local surroundings, scholars also learned how Lore was maintained through select Lore People (one male, one female) who were responsible for punishing those who committed crimes. Reflecting on societal practices, one scholar noted that engaging in this tour allowed them to think about ways they can preserve Indigenous culture and protect marignalised groups in their home country, Ethiopia.

Following the walking tour, scholars met with the Program’s On-Award Coordinator in small groups to discuss the importance of networking and forming professional connections to support Reintegration Action Plan (RAP) Implementation.

RAPs are a key component of a scholar’s award; they aim to identify a development issue to be addressed through accessing world leading education at Australian institutions and networking with professionals/organisations. Before arriving in Australia, scholars are expected to set objectives that will support their country’s development, which can be measured once they return home. While in Australia, scholars should review their objectives reflecting on how their studies are shaping their thinking and where they may need to change their objectives to maximise their ability to make an impact. Meeting with scholars in Sydney served as a reminder that RAPs should be reviewed and updated regularly, with the meeting providing a dedicated timeframe for active review of RAPs and a chance to seek advice from peers and the Program.

After reviewing their RAPs, scholars split into their field of study working together to create a mind map of networking opportunities available to them in their region. Each group created mind maps of sector and university-based networks, with each identifying a key activity they will complete in the next three months to help them achieve the objectives of their RAP.

Regional events allow scholars to connect with one another and the program while providing a unique opportunity to experience local Indigenous culture. Australia Awards Africa will continue to host regional events across state capitals throughout the year.