‘I want to excel’: young Galiwin’ku local thrives in traditional owner-funded position
Date: Jul 10, 2020
Evellena Wanambi loves her job as a Youth Sport and Recreation (YSR) Officer at the East Arnhem Regional Council in Galiwin’ku. Thanks to funding provided by Galiwin’ku traditional owners, she is employed to support young people in her community to reach their potential.
Traditional owners are supporting this employment through their youth diversion project, which they are delivering using the NLC’s Community Planning and Development Program.
Can you tell readers a bit about yourself?
My name is Evellena Milimarr Wanambi, but everyone calls me Miliy. My skin name is Galikali. My clan group is Marrangu. My Homeland is Raymangirr. I am 24 years old and I have lived in Galiwinku my whole life. I completed my schooling in Shepherdson College. I enjoy cooking food and playing sports. My sports are football, basketball and volleyball.
What is your job?
I started working at sport and recreation in 2016 as a casual employee. In 2018 I became part time and in 2020 I was promoted to a fulltime coordinator. I am passionate about providing educational, sport and recreation programs for the youth.
My role consists of assisting and supporting the delivery of the Youth, Sport and Recreation (YSR) program; helping with after-school care and vacation care; helping the senior officer and coordinators when needed; being safe at work; and being a good role model for young people.
What are some of the challenges faced by young people at Galiwin’ku?
Galiwin’ku is an isolated community, which makes it hard for young people to be exposed to opportunities like elite sports pathways and entertainment activities. YSR is one of the only services to entertain youth. Young people and the community find the shop and traveling expensive, which limits money spent on opportunities.
What are some of the highlights since you’ve been in the job?
Since working at sport and rec I have seen many kids, youth and families engaged and having a great time at our program. Some of the highlights of my career include: running sport competitions, such as edor [a chasing-and-tagging game for a large group], basketball and volleyball; running community events, such as the colour run, disco and festivals; facilitating and supporting youth and adults in Women’s AFL training, Galiwin’ku Football League and inter community competitions; and facilitating hunting and bush trips for families.
What do you want to do in the future?
I would like to excel as an YSR Coordinator and fulfil the roles and responsibilities involved. And in the future I would like to be a respected community leader.