Jade Colgan - State Coordinator VIYAC
Barkindji Mob, 25
I'm the State Coordinator of VIYAC, I absolutely love my job, I have completed yr 12, VCE. I have a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University. I love the outdoors especially the beach and camping! Love shopping and shoes a little too much... My family are my heart and soul and my friends are so important to me!
What VIYAC means to me: Being the Coordinator of VIYAC is just great, I love it. The fact that i get to work with all these amazing, inspiring and passionate young people is just amazing!
Favourite Colour: Blue, Green, Orange and Red! sorry cant choose...
Favourite Food: Thai, Italian, Greek and Chocolate
Favourite Type of Music: Hrrrrmmmm lots, House, RnB, and i love chilled out music and love the bands Salmonella Dub and Fat Freddy's Drop!
Believe and all is possible!
Simone Andy
Cummeragunja- Yorta Yorta People, 24
My hobbies are taking photos and scrap booking.
I love Art, especially drawing and painting.
I have Completed Cert III in Children's Services, i have worked at the Yorta Yorta LALC, Yappera Children's Services, VACCA, SNAICC & Kinder Haven Northlands. I'm currently working at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation as Project Officer for Koori Maternal Services, and i have also established a Small Business doing cultural resources
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAc is great i love meeting other indigenous youth, sharing and Talking about youth issues in Victoria and having a say on youth issues in Victoria.
Favourite Colour: Green
Favourite Food: BBQ food
Favourite Type of Music: All types of Music... love Lou Bennett's music
Nikayla Bamblett
Gunditjmara, 20
I am a 20-year-old Gunditjmara woman from Torquay. I have a son, Jakiah, and he means the world to me. I completed my VCE in 2005 and have been working in different jobs since then. I've worked in hospitality, I've worked at VACCA, Aboriginals Advancement League and now I am currently working for the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Ltd (VACSAL) as the assistant finance officer, also administration for Ocean Country Park in Torquay. I have currently differed my studies of Commerce at Deakin University in Geelong, but I am participating in Frontline Management Training through Swinburne University and one day I hope to fulfil my dream of becoming and accountant and then one day a finance teacher. Life is full of surprises and I just go with what I'm giving. I love what I'm doing and I love helping people, especially my community. I have a lot to be thankful for in my life and I wouldn't change a anything in it. I believe that family and community are the same thing and that they all should be treated the same, because my community is my family. They are there for me and I will always be there for them.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is a good resource and a great
opportunity for me because I get to meet other youth that have the same focus and drive I do, that is to give back to the community and to have a voice for those youth who can't speak for themselves
Favourite Colour: Red, it always looks good on me
Favourite Food: To many to choose from, Ice-scream, Pizza, Mums Potato Salad
Favourite Type of Music: All, depends on what mood I'm in
Live life to the full and dont let anyone tell you, you can't be great
Dixon Patten
Yorta Yorta, Gunnai. Gunditjmara and Wiradjuri mobs, 21
I work at the Koorie Heritage Trust as a cadet in the Exhibitions Unit currently studying at Deakin University at Burwood undertaking a course in Museum Studies. I have 5 brothers and 5 sisters. My hobbies include; art, music, basketball, literature, movies. I'm a pretty outgoing person who loves a challenge and to try new things. I have a competitive spirit, but I am pretty humble. I am flexible in my thinking and am a very understanding and loyal person. I believe in the value of family and friendships; we werent meant to be in this world alone! - and thats one thing I cant say I am biggest mob of family!... I say I am flexible cause Im not limited to a genre, scene, style, atmosphere, tone etc... am that I am. My Idols in life are my parents Carol Wright and Dixie Patten, grandparents Rochelle Patten and Alf Bambett, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jnr, Lauryn Hill, John Legend, Jack Patten, William Cooper, Sir Doug Nicholls, Marg Tucker.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is a great way to build relationships with extended members of the community that we dont normally interact with. It is a voice that represents the Indigenous Youth and a means to talk about issues that affect us and provide an outcome or suggestions in a positive manner that is acted upon. Its a unity and is well represented by many areas as members come from different places geographically, spiritually, emotionally and professionally; but all have common goals with the Indigenous Youth in mind. I am grateful to be apart of it and it is a great experience for me to grow as a person because I am learning leadership skills and learning from other members and the wider community and at the same time offering my knowledge and experiences.
Favourite Colour: Dont have a particular; but I do like baby blue
Favourite Food: anything Italian.
Favourite Type of Music: RnB, Hip Hop, Soul, Motown, Techno, Blues., Country (all blackfellas know at least 3 songs).....Anything with a good beat really and lyrics that I can relate to.
Keira Martin
Gunnai / Kurnai, 23
Born in Shepparton VIC, I have lived many places across Australia but my heart has always brought me back to Victoria to be close to family.
I have dabbled in many areas of employment from Childcare, Beauty Therapy, Hospitality to Business admin and Graphic / web design. I found my passion in this and now run my own business offering Business Consultancy, Graphic Design and Web Solutions.
My passion is showing other young Indigenous youth that anything is possible when you put your mind to it and assisting my community to expand their businesses potential.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC offers a great way for Indigenous youth across the state to get together and have a united voice. It embraces all of our individual and unique skills and offers a great way for us all to network. VIYAC works hard at giving us all an opporunity to make a difference within our own communities. I enjoy being part of VIYAC as it connects me with my community and my culture.
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Food: Thai
Favourite Type of Music: I enjoy all music except classical
'Real leaders are ordinary people with extraordinary determination'
Nathan Lovett Murray
Gunditjmara, Wamba Wamba, 24
Born in Heywood, I'm a proud koorie man who enjoys playing football and basketball. Like to spend time with family and friends.
What VIYAC means to me: Indigenous youth getting together and speaking about issues that effect our families and ourselves. Also being positive role models in the community.
Favourite Colour: Black
Favourite Food: Chocolate
Favourite Type of Music: Rap and House (a little bit of country)
Be proud of who you are and where you come from.
Whitney Solomon
Gubbi-Gubbi/Monaro woman, 20
My passion is my people and Hairdressing.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is very important to the changing of attitudes about indigenous people in the government sector which will then lead on to wider Australia. We are the future, so instead of being told all the time what we need, they can start to ask what we need, and learn to collaborate with us and our community.
Favourite Colour: Purple
Favourite Food: Greek & Japanese
Favourite Type of Music: Every type, I love music.
Lowell Hunter
Bardi Mob, One Arm Point W.A., 22
First of all I am a proud father of my beautiful son Djamari James Hunter he means the world to me .I grew up in Broome W.A. then moved down to Warrnambool when I was 6 to live with my father it was great to still be close to the ocean but every time I went swimming I froze my little moom off so I invested in a wetsuit.
I went to Warrnambool college and left at yr 9 I realised school wasnt for me and I wanted to be a tradesman so I started a 4yr apprenticeship which I thought I would never finish, but I did so im now a qualified plasterer and 4yrs was enough for me so now im Currently working as an Indigenous Liaison Officer at the Gunung-Willam-Balluk Learning Centre which is apart of Kangan Batman TAFE in Broadmeadows.
I have been in this role for about 1yr I really enjoy my job because as apart of my role as an Indigenous Liaison Officer I also supervise a Koori Youth Pathways Program which aims to engage At Risk male youth aged between 15-19, I decided that I wanted to work with Indigenous youth and help them with the various issues that they are faced with on a day to day basis and also help engage them into education.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is a great way to network and build relationships with other community members that i dont normally meet with. It is a voice that represents the Indigenous Youth and a means to talk about issues that affect us and provide us with ideas and solutions that then are acted upon in a professional manner. Its a unity that is well represented by many areas as members come from different places and all have different stories to tell, but all have common goals with the Indigenous Youth in mind. I am grateful to be apart of it and it is a great experience for me to enhance on my personal knowledge I am learning great leadership skills and learning from other members and other networks and I also get to share my experiences.
Favourite Colour: Ocean Blue like the waters of my country up One Arm Point way!
Favourite Food: My dad mum and sisters cooking especially her Currie Chicken mmm
Favourite Type of Music: I enjoy all types of music especially House and RnB
Without the love and support from my Family, friends, community members and elders I wouldnt be where I am today!!!
Regan Howie
Barkindji Mob, 15
Im from Mildura and I like spending time with my family and friends. I love sports, especially football and basketball. I also love to travel.
What VIYAC means to me: Being able to have a say for the youth of Victoria and being able to talk up about the issues effecting youth in my community
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite Food: Pizza
Favourite Type of Music: Rap n Techno
Jamie Lee Mason
Wemba Wemba, 19
I am 19 I am currently working at the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.
I am a member of the Ramahyuck Aboriginal Community.
I spend me weekends having fun with me mates, my mates mean the world to me.
Although I am a very shy girl, once you get to know me I am very outgoing, love new challenges, love learning new things
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is a way i can voice my opinions, thoughts, passions and issues for my community. Anything to be able to help my communitys youth is another step forward.
Favourite Colour: Purple & Green
Favourite Food: Italian
Favourite Type of Music: Most types really, techno, house, RnB heaps
Nikki Butler
Larrakia/Wadjigan and Eastern Arrente, 24
In 2002 I moved from Darwin to Melbourne to complete a Bachelor of Social Work at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University.
In 2004 I graduated and have since focused on a career in Indigenous affairs, more specifically in the field of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child and family welfare. In 2005 I commenced employment with the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) as the State-wide long term supervisor for the Lakidjeka program, in which I was responsible for monitoring all Indigenous children on long term child protection orders across Victoria. In this position I had the opportunity to work with Indigenous young people on dual child protection and juvenile justice orders, and frequently visited young people in remand, and in ‘secure welfare’ (a child protection facility established for young people at risk of harm).
I am currently a project officer with the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC), which is the peak national non-government body in Australia representing the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. The work I engage in is rewarding with clear benefits for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. An underlying principle of the work/projects I undertaken is to support and encourage local communities to participate and contribute to government and non-government policies and program development in the areas of early child and family wellbeing, childhood development, parenting, prevention of family violence, child abuse and neglect, and more broadly in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander governance and organisational development.
What VIYAC means to me: I’ve decided to become a VIYAC member to take part in activities, discussions and meetings that will place the needs of Indigenous youth at the forefront and provide an arena to lobby government and other key stakeholders to hear and act on current issues for youth.
As a member of VIYAC I will be given the opportunity to connect with other like-minded young people/adults, and maintain my interest in identifying current issues our youth are grappling with, and actively seek ways to advocate these issues which would ultimately lead to the development of further programs and services for Indigenous youth in Victoria.
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite Food: Fish, mud crab, bandicoot and anything with chilli in it!
Favourite Type of Music: All types except heavy metal and techno
Emily Jane Fien (Bloomfield/Baksh)
Yorta Yorta, Cummeragunja, 22
I'm very shy person when you first meet me but can be quite loud once you get to know me better. I love playing all sports especially netball and making things from hand. I'm happiest when I have my family and friends around me, I am the eldest of my 3 Brothers and 2 Sisters. I was born in Shepparton and have lived in many places; Queensland, Canberra, NSW and all around Victoria and Melbourne. I have been to over 15 different schools and have worked since I was 16.
What VIYAC means to me: To be apart of a wonderful Young group who are very inspiring and who try to make positive things happen in their community, they do this by being involved and discussing issues of concern. VIYAC also provide a space for young people to network and discuss opportunities weather they be in training or having input into programs and services provided to youth. I really enjoy and love being apart of this positive and inspiring group as I get to meet other youth in my community who want to make a difference.
Favourite Colour: Pink
Favourite Food: Too many, I can't decide. Lets say Italian; I love pasta, pizza and tiramisu
Favourite Type of Music: Grunge, Heavy Metal, Rock, Rap, Hip Hop, Techno , Oldies, Country - I love it all. But my all time favourite band would have to be Nirvana and I love Beyonce!
Tim Kanoa
Gunditjmara, South West Vic & Iwaidja, NT, 22
I am from the Gunditjmara Tribe South West of Victoria and the Iwaidja Tribe Northern Territory. I call Portland home which is on the coast situated in the South West of Victoria; it will always be my home.
I now live in Melbourne and work at The Foundation for Young Australians as an Initiative Manager. I currently work on the Indigenous Youth Leadership Programme which is funded by the Department of Education Science and Training (DEST). This programme grants young Indigenous people from remote, rural and regional areas of Australia with a Scholarship to attend boarding schools which are selected as our education providers and university's across australia, as well as providing them with adequate leadership opportunities.
My interests are film making, song writing and music. My passion is my culture and the fundamental need to preserve and raise awareness of it. I do this though traditional dance and performing on a regular basis which helps to spread the awareness and also provide Cross-Cultural training to our audience.
My Ultimate passion is to help Indigenous Young people to achieve their goals and ambitions. Coming from my background I had a difficult time getting through Secondary College and I strive to help these Indigenous Young people who are in the same situation as I was to succeed.
What VIYAC means to me: I believe that VIYAC provides us, the Indigenous Young People of Victoria to have a Voice! It is a great example of youth participation and it shows that we too have an opinion on the issues that we are faced with as Indigenous Young People and it also provides us with the opportunity to talk about these issues in a safe space.
VIYAC is also about celebrating the Deadly Indigenous Young People all over Victoria who are involved in arts to academics and showcasing their talents and achievements by creating statewide gatherings that also create strong networks between all Indigenous Young People in Victoria which will help make 'OUR VOICE' stronger that it will be heard!!!
Favourite Colour: Black, Yellow and Red
Favourite Food: Nans Potato Salad
Favourite Type of Music: My favorite artists are Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals, Bob Marley and Xavier Rudd. I listen to all genres of music but especially pay close attention to the lyrics. Lyrics are what make a good song!
Ursula Smith
Arrentre people of East Alice Springs, 22
I grew up In Darwin, NT and moved to Melbourne at 17 to study Journalism. I currently work in the communications/media area.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is my opportunity to influence the decisions made affecting Indigenous youth. VIYAC is an opportunity to connect with other young Indigenous people and a way of helping other Indigenous youth in the community.
Favourite Colour: Pink
Favourite Food: Anything my boyfriend cooks - he is an amazing cook.
Favourite Type of Music: R&B, anything I can dance to.
Rebecca Phillips
Bangerang, 25
I work for Parks Victoria as the Indigenous Education and Interpretation Officer. I was born in Melbourne but grew up on my home country in Katunga and Numurkah. I studied Nature Tourism at La Trobe Uni in Bendigo and had a stint with CDEP part time. In my final year I had the opportunity to engage in the National Indigenous Cadetship Program - working with local and state governments to revamp and include an Indigenous influence on the Bendigo Naturally Brochures. After four years in Bendigo I applied for a Park Ranger job at Barmah and loved it, working there for 7 months. I then moved to Melbourne to work in the Indigenous Partnerships Branch in the Corporate sector of PV. Whilst working here I joined VIYAC and have been an active member since. Meanwhile my current role was being created and I realised this was the area I wanted to work in, Education. I hope that I can make a difference here.
What VIYAC means to me: For me it's like an outlet where I know my voice can be heard and people don't look at me like I'm from another planet. It's comforting to know (when your not in your hometown) that there are many other Indig Youth out there that want to make a difference for their community. It's motivating to know that your not the only one battling statistics, stereotypes and trying to debunk discriminatory myths. We share stories and advice and work together. I value my time with all the VIYAC members and the work that we do. Thanks guys!
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Food: passion fruit yoghurt
Favourite Type of Music: R'n'B and funk to dance to, but I listen to a bit of everything
Go Bombers!!!!
Michael Douthat
Krauatungalung - Gunnai /Kurnai, 24
24 year old Gunnai man from Gippsland. Member of the Ramahyuck Aboriginal Community in Sale, I started work with Parks Victoria in 2003 working in the Alpine National Park, during this time I have taken a lead role in dealing with Cultural Heritage and Indigenous land management issues. In my Community we have a large number of Indigenous youth, some of which have lost their way or have been misguided. I hope to gain some knowledge and experience from other VIYAC members that I can take back to my community and offer support for Youth going through the difficult time of dealing with identity and adolescence.
What VIYAC means to me: 1. I can be a voice for my community's Youth. 2. I get to network and meet with other VIYAC members that are passionate in dealing with Indigenous issues. 3. To gain positive outcomes for our communities.
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Food: Food that isn't Gourmet!
Favourite Type of Music: Most styles.
Try to practice what you preach!
Thomas Harrison
Wurundjeri, 21
My family is the Wurundjeri people. I am one of 4 children (the middle child to be exact!). I enjoyed hanging out with friends, going to clubs and enjoying the weekends. I have completed a Cert. IV in Youth Work and Cert. IV in Protective Care and currently I am studying a Diploma of Community Welfare Work at Swinburne TAFE. I have worked at Anglicare and Eastern Access Community Health. I began working at Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place (MMIGP) from its inception in early 2006 as the Youth Program Coordinator.
What VIYAC means to me: When I first heard of VIYAC, I was excited and delighted when Jade Colgan asked me to join the group. Having the opportunity to be on the VIYAC committee gives me the opportunity to represent my community and voice issues that are among the youth population. I want to be a positive role for my community and be a future leader in the years to come.
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite Food: Cabonara - yum!
Favourite Type of Music: R&B, Hip Hop and Dance
Kristen Bell
Gunditjmara, 18
Im a proud Gunditjmara women from Heywood, South West Victoria.
I finished year 12 in 2006 at the Heywood & District Secondary College. Moved to Melbourne to start work @ the Aboriginal Advisory Unit, Victoria Police.
My role is the Aboriginal Community Justice Panel Administrative Support Officer. I love working with Victoria Police and having the opportunity to meet many people, Im also currently undertaking a Diploma of Business @ Kangan Batman Tafe in Broadmeadows.
I love hanging out with friends & family back home. Like listening to music, the beach, living in the city, being back home in the country & coming to work everyday.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC gives indigenous youth a great opportunity to be heard in their community! Also gives me a chance to meet other indigenous youth, to share & discuss issues that many of us face today.
Favourite Colour: Pink & Black.
Favourite Food: Chicken Stir Fry
Favourite Type of Music: Missy Higgins, The Wreakers, Rob Thomas, Sneaky Sound System, Plumb, Goo Goo Dolls, Life House, Plain White T's and MANY MANY more..
Jon Kanoa
Gunditjmara, 25
I am a 25 year old Gunditjmara man born in Heywood but currently living in Ballarat, I have been actively working within Aboriginal Affairs throughout Victoria after completing my VCE in 2000. Some of my achievements are helping set up the Police/Koori youth group that is currently running through the Ballarat & Horsham Aboriginal Co-operatives. I have been an active member of the Grampians RAJAC (Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Council) and also was the State Co-ordinator for the VIYAC in recent years. I currently work with VALS (Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service) as the client service officer for the Grampians Region.
What VIYAC means to me: Being involved with VIYAC means a great deal to me by way of taking the next step towards addressing our issues not just on a community level but also on a government level. It allows todays young Aboriginal leaders to voice our concerns, network with other organizations and be a positive voice for other youth around the state.
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite Food: Roast
Favourite Type of Music: R&B, Rap & Country
Shantelle Thompson
Barkindji (Wilcannia), 24
My mother's family comes from Wilcannia, NSW and this is Barkindji land. I was raised in Dareton, which is still Barkindji land alongside the Murray river. The Murray is in my blood and it is home. I was raised by my father and lived with my three younger brothers. I have one sister and nine brothers makes for a very big family. Plus my sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws and all the cousins and aunties.
I am proud to say that I am also a mum to my beautiful daughter Nacinta (10months). She is head strong and stubborn like her mum. Life is beautiful and never boring with Nacinta in my life. I am blessed to say that I have a strong and loving partner in George. I am a scorpion and this means strong headed and stubborn and likes being right all the time.
I am involved in martial arts and next to my family and friends this is the next most important factor in my life. It gives me direction and strength and I couldnt ask for more. I love my sport and keeping fit.
I work at the Mildura Aboriginal Corporation as Fleet manager, IT contact, Key register and phone handler. I would have felt better equipped if I was an octopus. I love my job, I am allowed self-direction and my job is very family friendly and a great place to work. Plus I get to work in with my community.
The people in my life who have the most impact on who I am today and who make me strong are my grandmother (nana Joan), my father, my daughter and partner and my best friend Simone to whom I wouldnt be where or who am today without her or these people. I would just like to acknowledge these people and say thank you, and tell you how much I love and cherish you.
So about me, I am a mum, partner, friend, sister, cousin, counsellor, daughter _ so many roles and I love every single one. This is who I am.
What VIYAC means to me: I have been involved in VIYAC since its conception. We fell apart once and now we are strong again. I am very proud to a part of VIYAC and even though the time I have left with VIYAC is short I hope to make the most of it and to help and see the group grow strong and proud. VIYAC has been a strong support net-work in my life and I just want to say thanks for that. Its not just a youth group, we are friends and its a very important group that is made up of some of the strongest young indigenous people Victoria has to offer. VIYAC is something I would recommended and strongly encourage every young indigenous person to become involved in.
Favourite Colour: Blue and Red
Favourite Food: Kangaroo, Pig (cooked hungi style) and good old-fashioned home style cooking.
Favourite Type of Music: Islander music and mixes, country, RNB, not that fussy really
Holly Charles Ireland
Yorta Yorta / Gunnai-Kurnai, 22
I'm 22 years old, studying arts/law at the University of Melbourne. I was born in Shepparton and my family moved around a bit before we settled in Geelong. I'm now living in Carlton in a sharehouse close to uni. I have a cadetship in the Victorian Government's Ministerial Taskforce on Aboriginal Affairs, and am also the Treasurer of the Indigenous Law Students and Lawyers Association of Victoria (Tarwirri). I love relaxing with my family and friends and being outdoors. My hobbies include music, art, reading, travel and going out!
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is important because it gives young people a voice, and a channel through which to express their feelings and concerns. It's also a great way to build networks with other like-minded people who are committed to creating a strong Indigenous voice on issues that really affect us.
Favourite Colour: Blue and green
Favourite Food: All - dad's a chef so I have to like everything!
Favourite Type of Music: All different types - music is the best! Love hip hop, chilled beats and bassy music, funk, soul, folk, acoustic and country rock
Caleb William Clarke
Kirrae Whurrong, 16
hi i am Caleb aka Rubber Ducky, i play drums in a screamo band and i also sing in the Heavy metal, NU-metal, Death metal band. .i use to play soccer, my team came second in 2007. I got two little brothers and one little sister that mean the world to me, i am a massive Metal head, I got the best mates and family eva and they all ways look out for me as i do for them, my idol drummer is Joey Jordison (Slipknot), I started to play drums 2006, and wish to do that for a living and also working outdoors. I will go through with my schooling ,i am basing my studies around wood works, music and PE. I also go for the Richmond Tigers in the ALF( don't pick on me for it lol), well that's all i can think of for now, so ill cya around
What VIYAC means to me: to me VIYAC means to, help out young Aboriginal kids, keep them off the streets, grog and drugs, and to talk about issues effecting Aboriginal culture, and it is away to open my voice to indigenous youth. And it will give me a chance to work with a wider range of people.
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Food: Italian, choc pudding
Favourite Type of Music: Rap, techno, country, screamo, rock, blues but most off all, Heavy Metal
John Secombe Nickname (Johnboy)
Wotjarbulik, 23
Hi my family back ground on me mother side I’m a gundijg- Mara men and dad side wotjarbulik I work for park Victoria I’m the indigenous FSO I play footy for Sunbury kangaroos me and my girl own our home together I’m also in a dance troop I’m the didgeridoo player I have been playing for a number of years. I’m keen for new challengers and love to learn new things.
What VIYAC means to me:
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite Food: Tuna Paddy's
Favourite Type of Music: Anything
Zach Green
Cunja Murra (Bendigo Portland), 19
My name is Zach Green, and im 19 years of age and come from town called Mansfield in the north east of victoria, im passionate about helping others in a time of need, especially the youth of today, im passionate about my people and my past, and believe that everyone should have a shot at succeeding.
I like all sport, especially footy and rubgy, currently studying yr 12, and in the future want to be a youth worker as well as a politiican.
What VIYAC means to me: Being able to represent my people.
Favourite Colour: Red
Favourite Food: Pasta
Favourite Type of Music: RNB
aS U THINK, SO U ARE, AS U IMAGINE, SO U BECOME.
Coral Reeve
Gundijmara, 20
I am currently studying Cert 4 in Professional writing and editing and I am on my way to becoming a Journalist.
What VIYAC means to me: Information coming soon
Favourite Colour: Pink
Favourite Food: Anything Chiken
Favourite Type of Music: anything from the 80's and 90's, Punk/Rock and alternitive
Life is what you make it and people shouldn't be stereotyped on their actions but on who they are
Winjirra Patten
yorta yorta & kurnia, 18
I'm currently doing year 12 at northcote high school. im hoping to get into latrobe uni in a couple of years doing a course in nursing.
What VIYAC means to me: An opportunity to have a voice and get involved with everything VIYAC has to offer me to better myself and make my words actions.
Favourite Colour: blue purple & pink
Favourite Food: Chicken
Favourite Type of Music: anything i can dance to LOL
i think everyone should smile because frowning is ugly. LOL
Kalimna Andy
Yorta Yorta, 15
nick names: keemsy and kimm. i am currently still at school at Thornbury High School in year 10. i love to surf and ride motorbikes.
love my weekends :) and hanging out with my family and friends.
What VIYAC means to me: too have a voice for indigenous youth
Favourite Colour: purple
Favourite Food: mum's cooking
Favourite Type of Music: rnb and hip hop
Nerita Waight
Yorta Yorta, 21
I am currently working as a Cadet at the Australian Taxation Office whilst undertaking a full time university degree in Arts/Law at Melbourne University. I am an only child (although I have a large extended family which makes up for it) who is of consequence fairly competitive in the professional sphere. I have previously undertaken work experience in my university holidays at Department of Justice and I did a stint at the Fitzroy legal service. I am passionate about the law and what it can achieve for aboriginal people.I am also fairly into politics through my degree and might one day pursue it after pursuing work in criminal law.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is a great resource to discuss issues affecting aboriginal youth and develop deeper understanding through the interaction of youth across Victoria.
Favourite Colour: Purple/Pink/Green/Yellow
Favourite Food: Rissotto & Pasta
Favourite Type of Music: All sorts RnB , 80's, Pop, a bit of rock etc
Jidah Clark
Framlingham / Tjap Whurrong, 21
I'm living in Melbourne at the moment while attending Melbourne Uni. I study arts(politics)/law and have a passion for the advancement of our people. I am also the Vice-President of Tarwirri - the Indigenous Law Students and Lawyers Association of Victoria.
What VIYAC means to me: VIYAC is the perfect avenue for young Aboriginal people to have discourse with government and other sectors of the community. It also presents us with important networking opportunities. Furthermore, taking part in VIYAC builds our capacity as leaders. I believe solidarity within our Indigenous communities is important if we are to move forward and VIYAC is a great means to foster it.
Favourite Colour: Black and Green
Favourite Food: Love cooking and love good curry.
Favourite Type of Music: Hip Hop, Soul, Country, Rock, Electro
Steaphan Paton
Gunnai/Monero-Ngarigo, 23
I grew up in Gippsland. I moved to Melbourne to study and work and I now live in St Kilda. I am proud of my heritage and have a close connection to my culture. I love being outdoors and being active. I also like to do artwork and play guitar. I currently hold a BA of Environmental Science and I work with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria as a Heritage Project Officer. I have a strong background in cultural heritage management and I would like to further my studies sometime in the future in the field of Archaeology.
What VIYAC means to me: I think it is important for young Indigenous people
to get together and discuss issues. It is also a great opportunity to meet other like minded Indigenous youth from around the state and hear what is happening in other areas.
Favourite Colour: Greens, Blues, bush colours.
Favourite Food: Mexican, Italian, Seafood...
Favourite Type of Music: Anything Acoustic, Blues, Folk, Country,
