Reclaiming identity: Empowering Aboriginal men and fostering healing through cultural camps
Yakuway Indigenous Corporation’s cultural immersion camps create opportunities for Aboriginal men across NSW to reconnect with Country, strengthen community ties, and foster a renewed sense of pride and empowerment.
Yakuway Indigenous Incorporation/Aboriginal Affairs NSW
Designed to tackle issues impacting Aboriginal men, these camps unpack common challenges faced when accessing healthcare, mental health, social isolation and disconnection from culture and Country.
Director and Chair of Yakuway Indigenous Incorporation, Malcolm Smith says: “We’ve been able to see how these camps transform lives, contribute to further healing, empowerment, and self-determination for Aboriginal men in our community.”
Aboriginal Affairs NSW has provided a Community and Place Grant to support the camps. These grants specifically support Aboriginal led programs to Close the Gap – including in areas such as culture, health and education.
Yakuway’s cultural immersion camps enable participants to connect with culture, rediscover a sense of purpose, resilience and motivation, and improve their lives. The camps have highlighted the importance of culturally led health interventions. There is now a renewed commitment to expanding the camps for the future.
Yakuway Indigenous Incorporation/Aboriginal Affairs NSW
They have also addressed health disparities by providing support for improved health literacy, encouraging early intervention, strengthening cultural identity and fostering strong peer networks.
“Seeing men who were reluctant to engage in discussions about their health now taking proactive steps toward positive change has been incredibly rewarding,” said Malcolm.
“One of the most significant outcomes has been the sense of empowerment and hope instilled in participants. Some even shared that these camps have helped them quit smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, seek medical support, and take a more active role in their families and communities.”