Program Highlight: First Nations to Fiji
In November 2023, the stage was set for the inaugural “First Nations to Fiji” study tour, a tailor-made program designed to enrich the experiences of Australian First Nations students. As they embarked on this immersive journey, the air crackled with the promise of new discoveries and profound connections.
Every aspect of the program was meticulously tailored to foster understanding and forge meaningful connections between Australian Indigenous students and their Fijian counterparts, transcending the boundaries of geography and culture. The itinerary promised a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and community dynamics, inviting students to delve into the intricate complexities of the Pacific region and gain a deeper appreciation for its diversity.
From interactions with governmental agencies to grassroots organisations, students were fully immersed in a diverse spectrum of experiences, gaining invaluable insights into the social dynamics shaping the region. A poignant highlight of the journey was the visit to the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, a beacon of hope and advocacy in the fight against gender-based violence. Here, students bore witness to the unwavering strength and resilience of Fijian women, whose collective action stood as a testament to the power of solidarity. Engagements with organisations like the Fiji Council Of Social Services (FCOSS) also provided students with profound insights into community-driven development and the transformative potential of grassroots activism. The excursion up the Navua River offered students a serene encounter with the timeless beauty of the Fijian landscape, culminating in a traditional kava ceremony that underscored the enduring significance of ritual and tradition in fostering community bonds.
Customised for the University of Southern Queensland, Charles Sturt University, and the University of the Sunshine Coast, this transformative journey held deep significance for Indigenous students, offering them a rare chance to reconnect with their ancestral heritage and reclaim a sense of belonging. As the study tour drew to a close, its impact resonated far beyond academic confines. For Indigenous students, it served as a beacon of empowerment, reaffirming their resilience and agency in the face of adversity.
Armed with newfound perspectives and a profound sense of interconnectedness, they returned home not merely as students, but as catalysts of change, poised to tackle tomorrow’s challenges with unwavering courage and conviction.
