Cedric Varcoe facilitated the first of our Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency workshops, which were a great success.
The participants were captivated and educated by Cedric’s interesting storytelling about his culture, upbringing, and how he overcame addiction with the arts to heal himself.
The second workshop for Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency was facilitated by Derek Walker, who shared interesting tales of the Coorong, sharing information about the history of Aboriginal businesses, how PiPi Co. was founded, and how it has reached high success today by providing employment and sustainability.
Mark Koolmatrie, founder of Kool Tours, facilitated the third Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency workshop, which took us on a journey, sharing stories from the creation of Australia, through history, some of which were quite confronting. However, his gratitude for finding positivity in what may be seen as negative was infectious.
The creation of the Kool Tours Experience Trust focuses on learning from what has been done in the past, assisting business start-ups to move forward, and looking for solutions.
He says, “lead by a good example, do the best you can, and encourage others”.
These Cultural Competency workshop series, delivered by Ngarrindjeri knowledge holders, are supported by the Alexandrina Council’s Community Wellbeing grant to strengthen partnerships, increase confidence, and provide a better understanding of local culture to the Community.
People are enjoying the journey, participating in a deep dive of cultural history, business ethics, storytelling, and the arts. Please join us on the 6th June for the final workshop facilitated by Kyla McHugh, who will share information about language and the arts.
Vickie Schmidt – Volunteer Coordinator
