Seven young Indigenous leaders from Cape York recently completed a seven-week leadership program featuring workshops aimed at promoting growth, leadership skills, and cultural understanding.
The Cape York Institute Leadership Academy's Skills to Lead program conducted the workshops, offering participants insights into leadership and self-awareness within a culturally relevant setting.
As the sun rose on the day of their final workshop, participants journeyed through Guugu Yimidhirr and Kuku Yalanji country towards Wujal Wujal. Their aim was to connect with Elders and community members, focusing on reflections about Cyclone Jasper and the flooding that impacted the community.
On the way to Wujal Wujal, local Keshiah Sykes said she was keen to show the other participants around her hometown.
"It makes me feel proud not only being a participant of the program, but to also to host other participants on my country of Eastern Kuku Yalanji," she said.
Upon arrival, the young leaders participated in a smoking and cleansing ceremony with Elders Kathleen Walker, Billy Harrigan, and Robert Bloomfield.
During group introductions and sharing of family connections, Aunty Kathleen was proud to learn that few of the program participants were family.
"I assumed we were all strangers, but we are family," Aunty Kathleen said.
The group engaged in powerful dialogues, listening to stories of resilience and shared experiences while discussing the ongoing challenges faced by the community.
These conversations honoured the wisdom of the Elders and offered the young leaders invaluable insights to guide their future efforts.
"This is my bubu, this our home, I do not want to go anywhere," Aunty Kathleen said.
"We must be prepared for the worst, climate is always changing," Uncle Billy added.
After leaving Wujal Wujal, the young leaders felt enlightened by the Elders' stories and continued on to Dabu Jajikal Aboriginal Corporation at Ayton.
Upon arrival, Aunty Gladys and Uncle Cedric spoke about their connection to the land and the importance of leadership rooted in protecting and respecting Country.
Emphasising the need to learn from the land, they discussed the distinct nature of Indigenous leadership, which focuses on cultural heritage, collective responsibility, and the guidance of Elders.
The session highlighted how leadership in Indigenous communities prioritises relational dynamics and community wellbeing, differing from mainstream models.
The following morning, participants received certificates of completion, symbolising their readiness to apply the leadership values gained in both their professional and personal lives.
Stelton Britcher, one of the participants, reflected on how the program shaped his potential as a future leader in his community.
"I feel really proud of this certificate," he said.
"Our community needs more leadership programs like this."
Organisers said the program marked a crucial advancement in nurturing strong, culturally grounded leadership within Indigenous communities, ensuring Elders' voices remain central in guiding the path forward.
