This Tuesday 4 August is National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. It’s a day when communities across Australia recognise that the children of today will be the Elders of tomorrow.
Save the Children Australia has been working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families for over 67 years. We are committed to supporting children to grow and raise their voice, ready to play their part in the future of this country. We work with children and families to get the best start in life; from early childhood education and family support, to building connection to country.
We have the privilege of working with children and their families who share with us their unique wisdom, strength, a proud history and connection to country. Hearing children’s voices today plays a crucial role in their development towards being influential Elders and leaders of the future.
A role model for youth
Danikka grew up in Armadale, a Perth suburb that is all too familiar with the complex challenges that can disproportionately affect Aboriginal children. A proud Noongar woman, she’s testament to what children are capable of, with the right people behind them.
She started attending Save the Children’s Youth Engagement programs at 13. Now, at 21, she’s a youth worker with Save the Children, supporting young people to thrive in their communities.
The Youth Partnership Project is just one of the programs where Danikka works with young people. The YPP works with a range of partner organisations to provide targeted support and inspire young people to take a better path. Children and parents get the help they need through referrals to appropriate services and consistent support. This early intervention program is changing the story for young people in Western Australia who, without the right support, are likely to have contact with the justice system.
Danikka knows Indigenous young people like her are capable of great things.