Reflecting on the AIATSIS Summit 2023:
A Week of Inspiration, Knowledge, and Connection
The AIATSIS Summit 2023 brought together Indigenous people from all over Australia for a momentous five-day conference on Whadjuk Noongar Boodja. This exceptionally well-run event covered a wide range of topics, showcasing the breadth and depth of the speakers’ experiences. The summit left a lasting impression, inspiring us with the incredible progress being made to enhance the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Shannon, our team member, found the dedication and work being done to bring positive changes for Australia’s Aboriginal people truly inspiring. The summit showcased how these efforts resonated globally, providing encouragement and motivation to indigenous communities worldwide. As Shannon puts it, “It was a wonderful opportunity to hear new perspectives from all over Australia. Hearing so many positive ideas for a shared goal is very exciting.”
Teressa, our Community Engagement Consultant, appreciated the chance to connect with like-minded Indigenous individuals from all corners of Australia. The warm welcome from Whadjuk CEO David Collard and the overall camaraderie experienced throughout the week made the event an unforgettable experience for Teressa. Reflecting on the discussions surrounding the Voice to Parliament, Teressa emphasized the importance of pushing the Referendum forward, believing it to be a crucial step toward developing policies that benefit all Indigenous people. She states, “Don’t get caught up in the propaganda and negative views from various persons. Once the voice is in Parliament, then policies can be developed for the betterment of all Indigenous people of Australia.”
Nerilee cherished the opportunity to spend quality time with our ALS and TR crew during the AIATSIS Summit. The connections made and the camaraderie shared with colleagues were priceless to her. She believes that meeting new people, listening to peers, catching up with old friends, and hearing about the amazing things they are doing always energize and inspire her.
Chris, another member of our team, was inspired by the summit’s organization and the diverse range of topics covered. The breadth and depth of the speakers’ experiences showcased the amazing progress happening to advance the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It was truly eye-opening for Chris to witness the incredible work being done.
In the backdrop of the AIATSIS Summit 2023, ideas, experiences, and insights merged to create an atmosphere of inspiration and empowerment. Through the perspectives of our staff, we caught a glimpse of the transformative power of the summit and its immense value for our team and the broader aboriginal community. As we bid farewell to this year’s summit, we carry with us memories and connections, ready to continue making a difference for future generations.
A heartfelt thank you to AIATSIS and all those who made this incredible event possible. Until we meet again!
