“I really enjoyed being part of the program as it made me feel like I was always supported. It provided me with opportunities and friendships that have inspired me to grow in many ways and achieve my goals”, said Kyla, year 12 graduate and participant in our Deadly Sista Girlz program.
Deadly Sista Girlz (DSG) is a culturally-appropriate program designed to improve school attendance and education attainment amongst First Nations girls.
Recently our DSG program at Halls Head College had 6 of our participants graduate year 12!
It is inspiring to see young First Nations women graduate, not only because they’ve completed a great academic milestone, but they have also had a journey of personal growth and cultural empowerment for themselves and for their communities.
The DSG program focuses on building self-esteem and confidence, pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity, having practical cultural contribution in the community, positive social interactions, building relationships based on mutual respect, encouraging active self-development and yarning about sexual and women’s health, drug and alcohol abuse, road safety, healthy nutrition, financial literacy and healthy relationships.
Since 2007, over 6,000 girls have been reached through our DSG program! This year, we have supported over 1,100 students across 17 school sites in Western Australia and Victoria.
Our DSG program is led by strong First Nations role models who empower participants to make informed decisions about their health, education and future careers.
Year 12 Graduate and DSG Participant, Marilee said “Tahleshja (DSG Mentor) has always been there when I needed help mentally or with school work. I am grateful that DSG has always supplied me with lots of health stuff, such as food and hygiene. My favourite memorable time in the program was our Christmas party. It was really fun and enjoyable. We teamed up and put together gingerbread houses and at the end of the contest we all came together to decide on a winner”
Another participant, Daisy-Jane said “Tahleshja (DSG Mentor) was very supportive and welcoming. She was always there when I needed help with school work or just a friend to talk to, she was very motivating. Everyone I have met in the Waalitj Foundation Head Office were also very friendly. I loved the program and I hope Halls Head gets bigger and better as the years go by!”
Our DSG mentors offer a stable environment and aim to engage, educate, and empower girls to make positive choices for their health and futures. Participants benefit from having trusted mentors present and available on the school grounds, helping to build routine, encourage better relationships with the wider community, instil confidence and achieve goals.
“I loved the connection Tahleshja has with all of us girls. She is always checking in on us, how we were going at school and our wellbeing. I also loved being a part of the teams at the DSG carnivals I attended. They were about fun and building connections more rather than just going to play the sport.” said DSG participant, Aamarli.
DSG is funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, with support from corporate partners. Find out more.
