Date: June 23, 2021
The Big Dreams, or Buldau Yioohgen program provides a warm, welcoming, and culturally safe environment for First Nations youth to connect with their community, strengthen their cultural identity, and think beyond their current life circumstances.
With 33 First Nations youth (and their families) participating in the ongoing program (exceeding the target of 18), the program has ensured that 100% of students continue to engage in school or further education. 52 students and 17 mentors/staff attended the Hike to Higher Education on Maria Island, Tasmania, with near half of these students being of First Nations background. 91% of Hike to Higher Education youth surveyed said they would now consider University or a trade as an option post Year 12, versus 58% before the hike.
The Lyone Foundation's funding goes towards assisting these initiatives, as well as furthering a development at Atrium Place, the cultural centre and home of Buldau Yioohgen located in inner eastern Melbourne. It's a huge achievement for the program, with the site set as a place to gather and undertake cultural learning programs that share the vast history, culture and diversity of First Nations communities.