Richmond’s Korin Gamadji Institute (KGI) has received over $970,000 in funding from the Federal Government to continue its successful Richmond Emerging Aboriginal Leaders (REAL) program.

The KGI has been delivering the program to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 13-16 years since 2011, with more than 180 participants from all over Victoria and Central Australia completing the program to date.

The program focuses on building leadership, cultural affirmation, active participation, health and wellbeing, as well as personal and career pathway opportunities, which, ultimately aims to develop the next generation of leaders.

“We are extremely proud of the work the Korin Gamadji Institute does,” Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said.

“The REAL Program is unique and is creating important outcomes for the young Indigenous people that participate in the program from all over Australia.

“It is fantastic the Federal Government has recognised the positive impact this program is having and has subsequently provided support so we can continue to develop and grow our program.”

Belinda Duarte, Director of the Korin Gamadji Institute, said the KGI and its programming is having a positive influence in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander space.

“Together, with our partners, the KGI has created a space that supports cultural pride, with initiatives like the REAL Program, that gives our young participants the confidence and support to consider their roles as future leaders,” Duarte said.  

For more information about the KGI or REAL Program, go to www.kgi.org.au.