This week, 23 Indigenous students, representing the regions of Victoria, returned to the ME Bank Centre for the second phase of their leadership training with the Korin Gamadji Institute.

The students were selected from the inaugural 2011 Richmond Emerging Aboriginal Leadership (REAL) Camps, to return for a second camp, and further their leadership skills and knowledge.

Throughout the camp, the students participated in a number of team building activities and leadership sessions.  A highlight of the camp was meeting Jirra Harvey, who designed Richmond’s 2011 Dreamtime guernsey.

Harvey spent time with the students, teaching them about Indigenous art, and challenging them to develop their creativity by completing an artwork template, which she had designed specifically for the camp. 

“With any work I do with young people, it’s all about self-confidence and about knowing that there are so many people in our community that are achieving so much,” Harvey said.

“There is absolutely no reason why our young ones can’t do anything they want.
 
“To watch these young ones grow up in such a positive way, and to see them get more confident in every session is a great thing to witness.
 
“These REAL camps are not school…you’re not there telling young ones what they need to be doing, they’re really taking leadership roles and are enthusiastic about it."

The camps aim to develop Australia’s next generation of Indigenous leaders.

“Our REAL camps are about creating an opportunity and a pathway which affirms and celebrates the unique role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people play in our future, through activities that explore aspirations, personal challenges, leadership and relevant lifestyles issues,” said Belinda Duarte, Director of the Korin Gamadji Institute

“I am inspired by the strength and pride in our young people, and excited by the roles they will play in creating a community that is enriched by our culture across every area of society.”