Yaama Georgia!
Please tell us a little bit about yourself. . .
“I am a proud Wailwan woman from the Gomeroi nation and a descendant of the Stolen Generations. I live on Biddegal country. I am in my second year of a PhD researching the importance of Indigenous youth in higher education having a voice on their wellbeing in research. My PhD thesis explores how Indigenous youth conceptualise wellbeing and what are the drivers and barriers to their wellbeing, with the vision of seeing more Indigenous youth thrive at university and having their wellbeing needs supported. I am passionate about Indigenous youth having a voice in research and seeing more Indigenous youth thrive in higher education and excel in life more generally.
Who is the Coota Girls Survivor in your family?
“My grandmother Aunty Alma Rachel Darcy”
Tell us a little bit about Aunty Rachel Darcy:
“I sadly never got to meet my grandmother however her story as a Coota girl survivor and her resilience and strength will forever influence our family. Nan’s love, resilience, perseverance and passion for our people to get an education has been passed down and has shaped each family member to be the strong, resilient and passionate family that we all are today.”
Always Was, Always Will Be. recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years.
What does this mean to you as a Stolen Generations descendant?
“As a Stolen Generations descendant and proud young Aboriginal woman this theme for me speaks truth and reminds all Australians that the beautiful country we all call home was and continues to cared for sustainably, by First Nations people for over 65,000+ years. Our continent can be restored when the colony realises the only way our Country can be protected from Climate change is through the direction and leadership of First Nations people, under the guidance of 65,000+ years of Indigenous knowledges and expertise.”
What are your hopes for First Nations people’s futures?
“My hope for the future is for First Nations voices, culture and knowledges to be embraced, leveraged and recognised with great beauty and respect.”