Our Djilba Youth and Family Support Program has been busy as our young men continue to strengthen their connection to culture, community and positive role models.
Recently, participants spent a day at the Bilya Joort Boodja Centre for Nyoongar Culture and Environmental Knowledge in Northam, where the team from Gundaring WA Aboriginal Service guided them through stories of country, culture and identity. The boys walked the grounds, listened to shared histories and engaged in meaningful yarns.
Days later, mentor Gerardo facilitated another group outing with Gundaring WA Aboriginal Services. Participants joined in for a hands‑on exploration of Perth’s waterways, learning about significant cultural areas and events. The day unfolded with fishing, lunch and plenty of yarns, all supported by strong male role modelling and a safe space to talk, learn and grow.
These experiences reflect the heart of the Djilba program, which supports Aboriginal boys aged 12 to 18 to build confidence, stability and a strong sense of belonging within their families and communities. The program offers a holistic approach that includes:
- Weekly group sessions where young men come together in a safe, supportive space to yarn about wellbeing, culture, employment and age‑appropriate topics that help build life skills and confidence.
- One‑on‑one mentoring, providing personalised guidance to identify each participant’s strengths, interests and challenges. Together, mentors and young people develop a tailored pathway plan that supports education, training and future employment goals.
- Connection to community, helping young people re‑engage with school, sporting clubs and other positive services that build routine, identity and belonging.
Our mentors work in a culturally grounded and family‑inclusive way to help young people strengthen connections, build confidence, engage with education and employment pathways and link in with community services.
These recent outings are just a glimpse into the meaningful opportunities the program continues to create for the young men walking alongside us.
