Stylin’ UP Regional featured
Stylin’ UP Regional features in Issue 09 (Autumn 2010) of Namalata Thusi. The publication is produced by the Department of Communities and highlight key issues and best practice work in and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The publication has a state-wide readership.
The transcript of the article follows.
__
The ‘Pride in self, pride in community, pride in culture’ philosophy behind Stylin’ UP is inspiring young people in rural and remote communities throughout Queensland.
Stylin’ UP Regional, coordinated by Human Ventures (formerly SpeakOut), is a community and cultural development program that links into the annual Stylin’ UP Festival.
For four years, the program has collaborated with the communities of Cherbourg, Woorabinda, Hope Vale (since 2008) and Logan to develop dance, songwriting, music-making, MC and visual arts workshops that culminate in showcases in each community. Some of the young people will go on to perform at the Stylin’ UP Festival in Inala on 29 May this year – Australia’s largest Indigenous-owned festival of youth, music and culture.
Stylin’ UP Regional program manager Karrina Nolan says the workshops provide a forum for young people to develop new skills, document local stories, foster participation in community events and identify education and career pathways.
“It’s amazing to be part of a program and process that supports young people’s growth, to watch as they show leadership in their communities and set an example to others by being talented, strong and proud.
“It’s not always easy breaking down the shame, learning new skills and representing your community. These young people have something important to say and a critical role to play in future community business,” Karrina says.
Cherbourg Elder Aunty Lilian Gray says the program has helped young people discover their hidden talents and given them confidence to perform in public.
“Participating in the program has given the young people of Cherbourg the chance to reconnect with their traditional culture where they are able to express themselves through contemporary music and dance,” she says.
