Via netball and other strategies to engage, empower and educate Indigenous people in remote and regional communities across Queensland, the Diamond Spirit program, through its Educate pillar, has benefitted thousands of students – many of them from Year 7 right through to Year 12.
Diamond Spirit Educate creates culturally supportive and safe opportunities for First Nations girls and young women to build their capacity as it relates to sport, academics, health and wellbeing, and culture.
Below are two statements from Year 12 students on the impact Diamond Spirit Educate has had on their lives.
“Since joining I have seen Diamond Spirit go from just another class where you play a bit of netball into so much more. I’ve had the opportunity to join the Diamond Spirit Leadership Camp and spend a couple nights at UQ and catch the first game of the Indigenous netball round. This gave me the opportunity to get to connect with other Diamond Spirit students and think more solidly of my pathway beyond school.
This program and the opportunities I have been given along with it has helped me accept my Indigenous identity without the guilt I once associated with it. Growing up without a connection to my culture, not even the name of my mob, made me feel lost and unsure of who I am. Do I identify myself as Indigenous? Is it wrong to do so? Will I be accepted as a fair individual? The Diamond Spirit program has given me my answer - I am unapologetically an Indigenous woman.
The experiences I have received are priceless. I hope that more girls are given the same opportunities I have received.”
“Diamond Spirit has truly changed my life for the better. It has not only helped me develop my sporting skills and leadership abilities, but it has also given me a deeper understanding and appreciation for my culture.
One of the most memorable experiences I had with the Diamond Spirit program was the Leadership Camp we attended last year. It was a three-day camp where we learned about different leadership styles, participated in team-building activities, and engaged in discussions about Indigenous identity and cultural heritage. It was an empowering experience to be surrounded by like-minded Indigenous girls who were all striving to be leaders in their own communities.
During the camp, we were also given the opportunity to hear from inspiring guest speakers who shared their personal journeys and success stories. It was incredibly motivating to see Indigenous women who had overcome challenges and achieved great things in their careers. Their stories gave me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities.
Another aspect of the program that I have found to be invaluable is the mentorship opportunities. As a senior student, I have had the privilege of mentoring younger girls in the program. It has been incredibly rewarding to see them grow and develop their own confidence and skills. Being able to provide guidance and support to these younger students has not only strengthened my leadership abilities, but it has also given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
The sports component of the program has also been a highlight for me. As Indigenous women, we often face stereotypes and misconceptions about our abilities in sports. However, through the Diamond Spirit program, we have been able to prove that we are just as capable and talented as anyone else. The netball training sessions and competitions have not only improved our skills on the court, but they have also instilled a sense of pride and confidence in our abilities. It has been amazing to see the growth and development of our team, both individually and collectively.
In addition to the sports and leadership opportunities, the Diamond Spirit program organises cultural camps where we can learn and connect with our Indigenous heritage. These camps have allowed me to deepen my understanding of my culture, traditions, and history. They have given me a sense of belonging and identity, which is so important for Indigenous youth.
Overall, the Diamond Spirit program has had a profound impact on my life. It has provided me with opportunities for personal and academic growth, as well as a strong connection to my culture and community. I am grateful for all the experiences and friendships I have gained through this program, and I would highly recommend it to any Indigenous female student. It truly is a life-changing and empowering program.”
For more information on Netball Queensland’s Diamond Spirit program, click here.
Established in 2019, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is an agency dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of all Queensland and reducing health inequities.
To find out more about Health and Wellbeing Queensland and the work they are doing across Queensland, click here.
