One of the best ways to ensure that culture is passed from one generation to another is to build into the youth – so that one day, they might carry that heritage and pass their culture on to the generations after them. Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative is deeply committed to empowering the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. By focusing on cultural connection, community well-being, and practical skill-building, Wathaurong offers practical support for young people to thrive while they stay rooted in their heritage. Read on as we explore how we are doing everything we can to create lasting opportunities and inspire the young people in our community.

Youth Initiatives

It is important to grow and develop every aspect of a young person. So, we offer several programs and initiatives designed to support the holistic well-being of Aboriginal youth. A core focus is creating a space where young people can connect with their culture, learn about their history, and build community bonds. These initiatives aren’t just about skills and support services, they’re about fostering pride in Aboriginal heritage and identity. Through these programs, youth develop resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging.

One of the most significant initiatives is Karroong Kanyool, which translates to “Home of the Young” in the Wadda Wurrung language. This space, located at one of the original Co-op sites in Forster Street, Norlane, was designed specifically for and by our local Aboriginal youth, offering a variety of resources and activities. Karroong Kanyool provides areas for creative and cultural expression, including arts, storytelling, and community gatherings. It also houses medical rooms for GP and mental health support, a sensory room, a computer lab, and a basketball half-court. These things help to create an inclusive environment where youth can access physical and mental health support, learn new skills, and connect with others in their community. After-school and holiday programs are also available for all ages, further enhancing Karroong Kanyool’s role as a community hub.

Youth Aboriginal Mentoring (YAM)

Since we believe in building into even the youngest members of our community, our Youth Aboriginal Mentoring (YAM) program provides valuable guidance and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary school students. Held weekly during the school term, YAM is more than a mentoring session – it’s a chance for youth to learn about their cultural heritage, gain essential life skills, and build relationships with mentors and peers. The program runs every Monday from 4 pm to 5:30 pm and includes transportation options to make it accessible to anyone who might need it. With YAM, youth have the opportunity to strengthen their connections to the community and gain confidence through the positive influence of role models who understand our unique cultural backgrounds.

Building Stronger Families

We know that strong, supportive families are essential to empowering Aboriginal youth. The Wathaurong Family Services team offers a range of culturally respectful programs and support systems to help parents and caregivers provide a stable, nurturing environment for their children. These services include training programs that equip parents with the tools to support their children’s education and development. For families experiencing challenges like family violence or involvement with Child Protection, we offer culturally appropriate assistance to navigate these situations and help them find positive outcomes in difficult times.

By supporting parents and caregivers, we ensure that young people have a solid foundation at home, which is crucial for their growth and success. A strong family environment allows them to feel secure and empowered, knowing they have the backing of both their family and the broader Aboriginal community.

Youth Social & Emotional Wellbeing

A core part of our mission to empower Aboriginal youth lies in supporting the social and emotional sides of life. Wathaurong’s Social & Emotional Wellbeing team provides a range of culturally appropriate mental health and wellness services, including counselling for drug and alcohol issues, psychology services, dual-diagnosis support, and the Bringing Them Home (BTH) program, which offers guidance for those affected by intergenerational trauma from the Stolen Generations. The team also offers cultural mentoring, helping youth navigate modern challenges while staying connected to their cultural roots.

Education Initiatives

Education is one of Wathaurong’s main areas of support for Aboriginal youth. Our educational initiatives go beyond standard academics, focusing instead on life skills, career readiness, and mentorship. 

Our approach to education is rooted in cultural understanding. Youth are encouraged to pursue their academic and career goals in ways that honour and celebrate their heritage. By integrating educational programs with cultural initiatives, we ensure that young people not only succeed in traditional settings but also thrive in environments that respect and value their Aboriginal identity. Our programs emphasise practical skills and employment resources, helping young people prepare for the independence and economic self-sufficiency of adulthood. Wathaurong also has a close partnership with the Barwon Local Aboriginal Education Consultant Group (LAECG) who provide information, advocacy and support for parents and students through the education system at all levels.

Empowering youth together

By empowering  Aboriginal youth, we’re creating a legacy that connects past, present, and future. By fostering cultural pride, resilience, and practical skills in our young people, we’re empowering them to lead with confidence and purpose. Every initiative, from educational and health programs to family and social well-being support, equips youth with the tools to thrive while staying deeply rooted in their heritage. Learn more about our youth programs or contact us to get involved and see how you can contribute to empowering our youth and ensuring that they’re poised to uphold and carry forward the rich traditions and values of our beloved community.