The National Empowerment Project (NEP), led by the Langford Aboriginal Association (LLA) and supported The University of Western Australia’s School of Indigenous studies, has been delivered to Boronia residents for the second time thanks to grant funding from the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
The landmark initiative promotes wellbeing through community participation and by gaining a better understanding of cultural history to review family relationships.
"I didn’t know much about land rights and referendums, I didn’t understand those terminologies and just labelled myself as not worthy person," one of the six graduates said.
"When you are caught in a cycle of drugs and alcohol and domestic violence, you forget deep down you’re a strong Aboriginal woman and you come from strong Aboriginal people."
Residents in the program engage with Elders to learn about the Stolen Generations, intergenerational trauma, family violence and the role of Aboriginal parents today.
"A lot of the women had never processed their trauma," Boronia’s Family and Community Services Manager, Sue Andrews said.
"It’s so promising to see them engage with counselling for the first time and deal with past traumas to move forward with their lives and reintegrate back into the community."
The program also focuses on developing personal skills to deal with stress, problem solving, managing conflict, and fostering healthy relationships, and concludes with a cultural activity completed by the residents, such as an art or dance project.
The graduates say they’re ready to take what they’ve learned back into the community, and to share with their own families, to begin a new chapter in their lives.
"I know more about myself more about my traumas and how to heal from them I know how to communicate a lot better," one of the women said.
"Whereas before I felt alone, now I feel connected and a sense of belonging. It’s like a strength awakens inside of you."
