Recently Students from our Deadly Sista Girlz (DSG) programs at Darling Range Sports College, Katanning Senior High School, Governor Stirling Senior High School and North Albany Senior High School, attended a dinner hosted by the team at UWA’s Bilya Marlee Centre. Joining the students was DSG Program Manager Anita, Education Operations Manager Christina and Careers Pathways Coordinator Jemma.
The evening commenced with a beautiful Welcome to Country delivered by Elton Walley. Elton shared stories of the Derbarl Yerrigan/Bilya Marlee (Swan River and Estuary) that have been passed down through his family. He spoke about the many branches and streams that feed into the river and likened this to life, highlighting how we are presented with many pathways and choices throughout our journey. His storytelling was powerful, meaningful and resonated with everyone in attendance.
Students and staff were then given a tour of the Bilya Marlee Centre, where they met the tutoring team and learned more about the Bilya Bidi Program. The 14-week pathway program provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with a culturally safe and supportive entry pathway into UWA, delivered by the Bilya Marlee team.
Following the tour, students enjoyed dinner at UWA, with short presentations delivered between courses that provided further insight into the program and the opportunities available to students. The evening concluded with a Q&A session featuring Bilya Marlee Student Ambassadors.
Hearing firsthand accounts from First Nations Student Ambassadors about their university experiences was both inspiring and empowering for our students, helping them to see higher education as an achievable and accessible pathway.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect with university staff, learn about available supports, and experience a culturally welcoming university environment. Opportunities like these play a vital role in broadening horizons and exposing participants to the many opportunities available to them.
Deadly Sista Girlz is a culturally-appropriate program designed to improve school attendance and education attainment amongst First Nations girls. The program is led by strong First Nations role models who empower participants to make informed decisions about their health, education and future careers. Deadly Sista Girlz is funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, with support from corporate partners. Find out more.
