Martu Leadership Program hits the ground running in 2020
Between late February and early March, over forty Martu Leadership Program (MLP) participants from all communities were involved in a suite of activities in Newman and Perth. This work continues to develop the capacity of the MLP participants to work confidently within the mainstream world and promote Martu aspirations.
Over twenty MLP participants were involved in several education sessions which looked at complex topics over a period of three days. These topics included the structure of the WA Government, the capacity of Martu to change government policy and practice, the methods by which these can be achieved, corporate governance, as well as ways to diversify and build the Martu economy.
The participants also discussed the process for defining non-Martu staff duty statements and subsequently reviewing staff performance. This process will assist Martu provide important feedback to KJ staff throughout the year. Public speaking was a key aspect of the sessions which help to build the confidence of MLP participants.
Several participants were involved in a number policy-setting sessions and prepared for meetings with several stakeholders covering issues such as diversion from crime, a program to combat recidivism, prison policy, early childhood education, redesign of the East Newman precinct, schooling for Martu kids in Newman, and a new program to keep Martu kids in Newman out of trouble.
An evaluation of a joint initiative with local police to aid Martu understanding of restraining orders was also undertaken.
A workshop was held to review KJ’s largest program — the ranger program. This review will look at the ranger program over the past 10 years and determine what is working well and what may need to be revamped. The review is currently on hold due to COVID-19 however everyone is very keen to have their voice heard and be part of shaping the program.
Cultural awareness was provided to members of the Newman police force, staff of the Shire of East Pilbara and school-teachers from one of the remote Martu communities. The feedback from the course was very positive and there has been a request for more sessions to provide staff with a deeper understanding of Martu culture and how to work in a cross-cultural context.
While the coronavirus has meant a large portion of the 2020 planned activities are on hold, the team are finding new ways to maintain the fantastic momentum the program has developed and provide support and training to Martu in communities while the lockdown continues.
