In a powerful new initiative, the Deadly Sista Girlz program has joined forces with the Waalitj Hub for the Wangening Bardip (Healing Stories) Exhibition, celebrating the voices and visions of First Nations girls.
In partnership with HIF, a proud not-for-profit health fund based in WA, the Deadly Sista Girlz program hosted an art competition. Deadly Sista Girlz students from schools across Western Australia and Victoria submitted their artwork for a chance to be featured in the exhibition, taking place this NAIDOC Week at Central Park Tower in Perth CBD.
Their works will be previewed alongside those of established First Nations artists, including Carol Martin OAM (Yamatji Naaguja and Noongar/ Geraldton), Jacinta Anderson (Noongar Yorga), Sara Riches (Ngadju, Wangkatja and Esperance Nyungar) and former Deadly Sista Girlz program participant, Erika Fernandez (Yamatji Naaguja/ Cockburn).
Erika, along with HIF’s People Experience Advisor, Hannah Swainston, recently visited DSG school, Yule Brook College, to have a sneak peek at some of the artworks entering the competition and chat to the girls about future career pathways in art. “It means a lot to see the next generation of young Aboriginal women given this kind of platform – where their stories can be seen and heard. It’s not just about the art – it’s about showing these girls that their voices belong in spaces like this,” said Erika.
With over 40 amazing pieces being entered in the competition, our judging panel had a tough job ahead of them. HIF People Experience Coordinator, Kirsten McManus, Bunuru Youth Mentor, Richard Kickett, General Manager of Education at Stratgey at Waalitj, Carly Davis and Business Coach, Jaime Silva, spent hours deliberating the final 12 pieces to be featured. You can see the selected artworks here. All artworks are available for sale with 100% of the proceeds to go directly to the artist.
A big thank you to HIF for making this competition possible and congratulations to all of our Deadly Sista Girlz who entered.
Speaking on the Deadly Sista Girlz and HIF partnership Chief Member and People Leader at HIF, Jen O’Brien said, “Our connection with the Waalitj Foundation has always felt like a natural fit – built on shared values and a deep commitment to supporting community. As a proud not-for-profit health fund based in WA and serving our community for over 70 years, we’re proud to stand alongside the Waalitj Foundation in this latest initiative. Partnering with the Deadly Sista Girlz program and supporting the Wangening Bardip Exhibition is a powerful way to help amplify the voices, stories, and creativity of young First Nations girls. It’s an honour for HIF to be part of it.”
Make sure you head to the Wangening Bardip Exhibition this NAIDOC Week to see our incredible winners. We will be running a People’s Choice Vote throughout the week so you can get involved and vote on your favourite piece! Running from the 4th of July to the 11th of July at Central Park Tower in the Ground Floor Lobby.
