Video: Children of a Generation

The warmness of being one with the land, feeling a sense of belonging and contentment became quite prominent whilst participating in the One Vision film. My nerves that were built up before starting this program quickly disappeared. I felt excited and attentive when discussing the messages that we were going to portray within the film. This gave not only myself but other Aboriginal students a voice to talk about issues and their hopes for the future.

After viewing the film, I was so proud of myself and fellow students. We successfully executed the message and story for a more unified future. We did this by going to our roots and sharing it through song and dance, which our people have been doing for many years. Aboriginal people often put off these opportunities because they are embarrassed or feel ‘shame’. This film shows that you don't have to be ashamed of your culture or worry about what others think of you. When we all come together anything is possible.

My name is Katie Ahoy and I am the current school captain at Banora Point High School. I am a proud Indigenous woman from the Anaiwan nation, located in the Armidale, New England region. Culture and strong family connections play an important role in shaping my personal identity. The sharing of knowledge and telling of stories creates a sense of belonging and understanding of my culture that I strongly identify with.

I am currently living ‘off Country’ and miss being home but being here has provided me with great opportunities. My involvement in programs at school such as, One Vision Productions, AIME tutoring, Beyond Broncos Girls Academy, NAIDOC celebrations and the School Representative Council have all been rewarding experiences. These initiatives have had a positive influence on my own personal development including things like building my resilience, confidence and cultural integrity.

My aspiration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait kids in schools is for them to recognise the strengths within themselves and realise their full potential. Much can be said for Aboriginal leadership styles and how that has contributed to my own success. I believe that we all have something positive to contribute towards our school and community while being more responsive to the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal people everywhere.

Banora Point High School allows for students to gain a greater understanding of Aboriginal culture and participate in cultural activities. Our school takes all of Year 7 on the’ Pathways on Journey’ excursion. This experience engages, teaches and allows us to have the opportunity to participate in cultural activities creating awareness of the Aboriginal culture. I believe the inclusion of these activities and cultural programs are an important addition to schools. It helps create an inclusive environment for all students which authentically and critically engages students. They celebrate students' engagement with our community and create a sense of togetherness.

These programs have helped me develop and acknowledge my personal identity as well as promoting acceptance and being inclusive of everybody. I have felt more conscious of the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and understand how these can be culturally sensitive. The video has empowered me because it is the final product culminating from doing these programs. My self-confidence has grown and I have deepened my understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. I have become closer and built relationships with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and others who have participated in these activities within the school.

We are the children of the next generation and together we can create a solidarity nation.