Young Queenslanders achieve great things through Dukes
Article in the QLD Government publication
'Namalata Thusi - Autumn 2010 Edition'
The Duke of Ed offers Participants the chance to gain new skills, have new experiences and make a difference in their community - positive outcomes are noticeable at the Nintringanyi Cultural Training Centre in Cairns where invaluable work is underway to address issues relating to the high rate of disconnection of young Indigenous people from learning and employment opportunities.
Currently, 12 Indigenous young people are working towards completing their Duke of Ed Bronze Award at the centre.
Irene Kebisu, 23, a young Torres Strait Islander, says participating in The Duke of Ed program creates great opportunities and possibilities for her future.
“Dukes has given me the chance to do things that I would not have dreamed of doing,” Irene says. “There were times that I didn’t think I would make it through, but it has been a great challenge and made me enjoy life even more.”
Kyh Mye, 19, of South Sea Islander and Aboriginal descent, has achieved personal goals.
“Being involved in Dukes has been a great experience for me, particularly the adventurous journey,” Kyh says. “For our practice journey, we hiked for two days in the Atherton Tablelands, where it was great to be in the bush and see the beautiful scenery. It
was great to see the youthsin our group developing indifferent leadership roles –we have all learnt a lot.”
From left: Shanny-Jo Teale, Kyh Mye, Melissa Bann (Nintiringanyi Cultural Training Centre), Kerrilee Lampton, Irene Kebisu, Edward Lampton, Kenny Kebisu and Tyson Kebisu.