How do you approach a conversation around mental health when for so many men its still shrouded in shame and silence? Its an ongoing issue around the world, but our Strong Young Men and Boys Program recognises the importance and urgency of bringing hard truths to the table. The thing that many people probably don't realise is that once someone opens up, so does the flood gate of other people sharing their stories, experiences and grief. The collective can be healing, and striving to achieve that is at the forefront of the programs mission.

For many First Nations People our connection to the land not only nourishes our physical health but also provides boundless space for our mental health to unapologetically exist. Getting back to the land has become a staple for the SYMP Program because it yields results.

Take our most recent program for example; it was a week of bringing men and boys together to learn, practice, live and breathe culture. Fishing, hunting, gathering, teaching and teamwork was the core focus of the super camp. But what followed when the days work was done was deeply impactful. Sitting around the fire brought on a sense of peace, and through that peace came the feeling of safety. Recognising that space was a safe one for men to exist in their truth allowed men to speak their truth.

How'd We Do It?

A lot of work went into making this super camp what it was, and what it has become over the last 12 months. An incredibly unique aspect of it was bringing members of two very different communities together on the one trip. Naiyu and Tiwi Islander Men working side by side, building brotherhoods and learning each others different ways of doing things resulted in both parties feeling proud of who they are, their country and their roles as men in their communities. Spear making and hunting was at the core of the days work and involved learning about the history and process of timber selection and preparation. Each community is different, so what may be used in the Central Desert for tools may vary to what's used in the top end.

Through each conversation, teaching and direction is where the trust between the men formed.

One of the participants from Nauiyu was O'Shea Johnson, a young fulla who made the trip with his dad Wally and whose keen interest and participation in the camp had its own impact.

Getting to have the men witness a father son relationship opened up conversations around that exact topic and the role fathers play in their families lives.

Overall the camp was a really strong success in its mission to build connections, open up safe spaces for conversations and to showcase the important role men play within their own families and communities. Bringing together the two communities is something we hope to continue doing into the future, so men can continue to feel proud and connected to their country while sharing their unique cultures with one another.

“Really great to get blokes together without beers and substances”

Super Camp Participant

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We love being able to do what we do, to provide community with programs that encourage, support and provide in whatever they desire.

To be able to keep this relationship lasting we need your help.

Your donation goes towards ensuring our ongoing services within communities survives and thrives long into the future.