Boarding Life

Indigenous Youth Leadership Program National Gathering

Pania, Ayla, Zahara and I recently travelled to Sydney to join more than 30 schools from across Australia for the 2026 Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) National Gathering. Bringing together more than 140 students, staff and mentors, the gathering was a wonderful opportunity for young Indigenous leaders to come together as a collective to celebrate culture, community and connection to Country.

One of the most memorable experiences was meeting Aunty Julie, a Traditional Healer and Indigenous Health Worker who supports young Indigenous people during times of crisis. Aunty Julie shared the importance of dance, language, acceptance and understanding who you are and where you come from. She taught us a powerful self-regulation practice centred on the symbolism of creating and nurturing a fire. As we slowly rubbed our hands together to create friction, we practised 4x4 breathing and visualised the fire growing before using long, slow breaths to keep it alive. We then placed our warm hands over our faces, noticing our pounding heartbeat before gently shaking our hands and saying “Yaloo”, meaning “see you again”. 

The students also participated in traditional dance led by students from St Ignatius College Riverview, whose passion and fearlessness were inspiring. Aunty Margaret led a historic rock tour around Sydney Harbour, sharing stories of how Aboriginal peoples lived sustainably from the land and the significance of totems, seasons, ancestors and Country. We learnt how knowledge is held within culture and passed between generations, and the importance of respecting and never over-harvesting from Country.

A Tribal Warrior boat cruise provided further opportunities to learn through stories, song, dance and traditional art of body painting. The students also heard from Indigenous professionals about their career pathways and relationships with Country throughout their adult life.

The gathering concluded with a formal dinner with the Smith Family and corporate partners. It was an incredibly enriching experience, allowing Pania, Ayla and Zahara to strengthen their leadership, deepen their cultural understanding and build connections with young leaders from across Australia.

Annabella Pettinau

Deputy Director of Boarding

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