In this special blog post, the directors of Wanta reflect on their incredible journeys through 2024.
From significant milestones and highlights in their programs to the challenges they’ve conquered, each director offers a personal perspective on the year’s successes along with a sneak peek at the exciting plans ahead.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our directors and employees for another year of dedication and hard work, especially in some of the most remote and isolated areas of Australia.
Henly Taka – CEO
This past year has been great for Wanta, and I want to extend a big word of ‘Thank you’ to our Board members, dedicated staff, funding partners, stakeholders, and community members for their remarkable support.
Throughout the year, Wanta has successfully implemented a variety of beneficial programs aimed at children and youth in the remote Indigenous communities of Yuendumu, Ntaria, Arlparra, Ngukur, Kalkarindji, and Lajamanu. I especially appreciate our Board members for their unwavering commitment to representing these communities during our quarterly meetings. Their participation in the meetings is crucial in ensuring that our programs effectively serve young people in the communities, while also fulfilling our governance responsibilities as outlined by ORIC.
The Brighter Futures program has been a cornerstone of our initiatives, offering exceptional training and educational opportunities for youth in these communities. One notable example that we are using as a model for future programs is our Bagai Barista café, which provides practical, hands-on learning experiences and skill development for young people in Ngukurr.
Our Stronger Communities for Children (SCfC) program continues to have a positive impact on the lives of young people in Ntaria, thanks to the strong support from the Local Community Board (LCB) which is comprised of respected elders and community members. Their involvement is vital in tailoring the SCfC program to meet the community’s needs.
Wanta staff from Yuendumu and Ntaria also undertook reward trips with students to Sydney and Melbourne respectively. For many students, these journeys were eye-opening experiences, as they had never travelled outside the Northern Territory (NT).
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the organisations, government agencies, and stakeholders that have supported our work, including the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Central Land Council (CLC), Granite Mine Affected Areas Aboriginal Corporation (GMAAAC), Future Generation Global (FGG), Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal (FRRR), and the Northern Territory Government, through the Department of Health. The financial assistance from these entities is instrumental in enabling Wanta to carry out our work in the remote communities.
I also want to acknowledge the principals and teachers in all the schools within the communities that we serve.
Finally, my appreciation on behalf of Wanta to everyone who has contributed to our organisation in any capacity in 2024. Your collective efforts make a significant difference in the lives of young people that we serve, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.
Blake Romaker – Lajamanu Program Director
What a year it’s been for Wanta’s Brighter Futures Program in Lajamanu! 2024 has been filled with growth, exciting new ventures, and unforgettable travel experiences.
One of our biggest highlights was the development of Tanami Treats, our social enterprise café, in partnership with Lajamanu School. Imagine a mobile café trailer rolling around community, serving up delicious coffees, teas, smoothies, and home-baked goodies – all prepared and sold by our amazing students! This initiative provided invaluable hands-on experience and boosted job readiness skills. As a part of our job-readiness program, Wanta also supported Lajamanu School in delivering Certificate II qualifications in Hospitality and Construction for senior students, further expanding their career pathways.
Adventure was also on the menu this year! Twelve of our senior students embarked on an incredible two-week journey to Perth, exploring the city and the bush. We cheered on our talented athletes at the Michael Long AFL Cup in Darwin, followed by the inspiring Michael Long Camp. And to top it off, we explored Darwin and Nitmiluk National Park on a well-deserved reward trip. Liam Patrick also supported a school trip to Melbourne! Even our staff got in on the action with a trip to refresh essential certifications like First Aid, CPR, and Bronze Medallion.
Of course, the heart of our program remains strong. Throughout the year, students embraced a diverse range of activities, from morning bike rides, hands-on cooking lessons, and sport after school to immersive bush trips on country. We continued to guide students in obtaining essential personal documents, preparing them for the workforce. Our invaluable partnership with Lajamanu School allowed us to deliver engaging alternative education sessions on topics like alcohol and other drugs, health and hygiene, and job readiness.
The Wanta Lajamanu team itself continues to grow in size and experience! Liam Patrick, a cornerstone of our program, is now in his 9th year with Wanta. Mervyn Rose and Blake Romaker continue to make incredible contributions in their 2nd year, and we welcomed Tiffany Edwards, who joined Wanta earlier this year.
As we head into 2025, Wanta Lajamanu is energized and ready to deepen our positive impact on the community.
Indi Drendel – Ngukurr Program Director
At the Ngukurr WANTA Program we and our participants have had an epic 2024! Our Social Enterprise cafe Bagai Barista opened and boomed and has become what some locals call, the “life source” of Ngukurr community! The students welcome customers to their cafe every morning, delivering delicious coffees, hot chocolates and more.
Whilst we aren’t busy serving the community, participants have enjoyed the WANTA Room with its exciting new editions, and lots of Mario Kart races. Alongside the fun we have had great attendance and engagement in sessions on Cyber Safety, AOD and Drivers Education, with a few students obtaining their learner licences in the last few weeks of Term 4.
We’ve gone beyond Ngukurr and had some exciting trips out of community.
We went to Katherine to participate in the Hawthorn NGA Cup held in Katherine and also participated in one of the NTLC Meetings in Katherine and supported Ngkurr Learning Commission students throughout the year.
Our staff got to undertake their Barista Certificates to learn how to better teach our students the art of coffee making.
We enjoyed time on Country having exciting experiences with the NLC Rangers and learning language with the Ngukurr Language Centre and we got to assist students with putting on their own Art Exhibition in Darwin, which you can read all about in another Blog Post!
To end the year, we and the students are letting our hair down and having a dance to celebrate everyone’s hard work! We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings along.
Taren Williams – Director SCFC Program
The Young Women’s Room: Creativity, Connection, and Care
The Young Women’s Room is a welcoming space where girls can connect, create, and care for themselves. Staff engage with the girls through art and craft activities, helping them express their creativity and build confidence. Yarning time gives them a chance to share stories, offer support, and bond with each other.
A highlight of the morning routine is the beauty time. When the girls arrive at school, they can come in first to brush or straighten their hair and apply some moisturising cream to keep their skin fresh. This moment of self-care helps them feel confident and ready for the day ahead, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.
The Kids Club: After-School Fun and Relaxation
The Kids Club provides a safe and fun space for younger children to unwind after school. With activities like computer games, pool, outdoor games, and a relaxing snack time, the club helps kids de-stress and have fun. The staff create an atmosphere where kids can enjoy themselves, socialise, and relax after a busy school day.
For many kids, the Kids Club is a much-needed break where they can cool down and recharge. It’s a place to play, connect with friends, and enjoy a snack before heading home.
Both the Young Women’s Room and the Kids Club offer vital spaces for young people to relax, grow, and feel supported in a positive, fun environment. Whether through creativity, self-care, or play, these programs help nurture the next generation.
Praveen Kalaivanan – Regional Manager
The Brighter Futures program in Kalkaringi has had an incredible year in 2024, driving positive change by empowering Gurindji youth and delivering benefits for the entire community. With local Indigenous leaders at the forefront, the program has continued to create pathways for education, employment, and cultural pride while building a brighter and stronger Kalkaringi.
Gurindji Leadership
One of the most significant achievements of 2024 is the leadership of local Indigenous staff, who are running the Brighter Futures program on the ground. Engagement officers Keanu Roy, Keenan Barry, and Daniel Law form the backbone of the Kalkaringi team, and their dedication has had a meaningful impact on the community. Wanta Aboriginal Corporation is incredibly proud to have a program that is 100% run by Indigenous staff, reflecting the power of community-led solutions.
Keanu and Keenan’s leadership has been pivotal in delivering culturally relevant and impactful workshops. Keenan, who began as a program participant and is now a mentor, is a shining example of the long-term success fostered by Brighter Futures. Daniel Law, who joined the Kalkaringi team in 2024, has brought additional support and expertise to the program. His contributions have further strengthened the team, creating a supportive, culturally grounded environment for Gurindji youth to thrive.
Together, the team has delivered workshops covering critical topics such as respectful relationships, job readiness, and AOD awareness. Delivered in language, these workshops have helped bridge cultural gaps, equipping young people with life skills and a sense of pride in their identity.
Kalkaringi’s First Melbourne Trip: A Historic Milestone
In November 2024, Kalkaringi high school students embarked on the community’s first-ever interstate trip to Melbourne—a transformative six-day journey. For 13 Gurindji students, this experience marked their first time flying and exploring life beyond their region, creating excitement and lasting memories.
Supported by Kalkaringi high school teachers, assistant teachers, and Indigenous staff member Keenan Barry, the trip demonstrated the power of collaboration. Students visited iconic landmarks such as the MCG, Melbourne Aquarium, and Queen Victoria Market while connecting with Indigenous history through the Koorie Heritage Trust Walk. Preparatory workshops, led by Keanu, Keenan, and Daniel, ensured students were equipped with the values of resilience, teamwork, and responsibility, making the trip both fun and educational.
The success of the Melbourne trip highlights the power of community partnerships and the importance of providing Gurindji youth with experiences that broaden their horizons and instil confidence.
Youth-Driven Social Enterprises and Movember Support: A Game-Changer
2024 has also been a year of preparation for major initiatives set to launch in 2025. The Brighter Futures program is gearing up to establish two youth-driven social enterprises in Kalkaringi: a café and a barber shop. These enterprises aim to provide practical skills, employment opportunities, and a sense of ownership for Gurindji youth while delivering long-term benefits for the community.
Adding to the excitement is the involvement of the Movember Foundation, which is looking to support Wanta Aboriginal Corporation in making these enterprises a success. Movember’s reputation for improving men’s mental health and wellbeing makes this partnership a significant opportunity for the community. Their potential support could provide essential resources and expertise to ensure these enterprises thrive.
Movember is planning a site visit to Kalkaringi in March 2025, a key milestone that will allow them to witness firsthand the program’s progress and further strengthen their partnership with Wanta. This visit marks an exciting step forward for Kalkaringi, bringing national attention to the local efforts creating real change.
Celebrating 2024: A Year of Progress
As 2024 comes to a close, the Brighter Futures program has much to celebrate. The leadership of Indigenous staff, the success of life-changing events like the Melbourne trip, and the promising partnership with the Movember Foundation all reflect the strength and potential of community-led development.
With 2025 on the horizon, the program is set to achieve even more. The youth-driven social enterprises, led by local staff and supported by Movember and community partners, will open new doors for Gurindji youth and further strengthen the Kalkaringi and Daguragu communities.
This is a time of transformation, and we can’t wait to see how the future unfolds. With local leadership and national support, brighter futures are truly on the horizon for Kalkaringi.
Neil Mackenzie – Social Enterprise Manager
Looking back over 2024, it is wonderful to reflect on some of the amazing activities that were undertaken with the children and young people of Yuendumu. Apart from the staple offering of an inviting and engaging after school drop-in space where food, fun and friends formed a core of this safe and welcoming environment, the extra activities were both exciting and beautifully different.
An interstate rewards trip to Melbourne had eyes wide open with planes, trams, zoos, Wicked the Musical, tenpin bowling, a screaming cohort of 83,000 Bombers and Magpies fans at the MCG, and so much more.
We had art and creativity at the centre of our focus for these absolutely amazing young people as was health and wellbeing.
A street art and storytelling activity, run in conjunction with the Making Yuendumu Beautiful program, showcased creativity, imagination and artistic talent led by renowned street artist Kaff-eine. The end products of this incredible initiative now proudly adorn the walls of the Yuendumu Community Pool, while badge making sessions run by Tanya from the famous Alice Springs Beanie Festival, gave our young people yet another way to express themselves as they created badges that reflected what was important to them.
The health and wellbeing of our young people is something that forever remains important to Wanta, and hence we were so excited to introduce the incredible art of aerial yoga to those attending the drop in centre. Gabrielle from Invert You brought her amazing skillset and knowledge to a bunch of kids that had never seen this activity before but took to it like the proverbial ‘ducks to water’. With a focus on health, balance, coordination, teamwork and mindfulness, this was definitely a winner for all.
Finally, with awesome support from our local yapa team members, our ‘activities with purpose’ delivered throughout 2024 have resulted in an extremely beneficial and fun year for both participants and providers. To that extent, Wanta remains committed to providing the young people of Yuendumu with opportunities that help them grow and develop in an often challenging world, and so bring on 2025!
Zac Murfet – Arlparra Program Director
It’s been a big year for the Wanta program in Arlparra. Despite the Arlparra Wanta troopy doing its best to spend time at the mechanic rather than out in Arlparra, we managed to have a good, consistent program and some big interstate trips, which was the first time that has happened in quite a few years at Arlparra School. In June, a group of 6 fellas and two local adults (as well as myself) spent 6 days in Melbourne. Aside from the fellas nearly freezing to death, we managed to have an exciting and fun-filled time, with activities including going to the Eureka Tower, Luna Park, Phillip Island, Urban Surf the surf park, Melbourne Zoo and an AFL match at the MCG. We stayed in an airbnb in the city and did a lot of walking and tram catching around the city. For some of the fellas it was their first time flying and even seeing the ocean! A fantastic experience for the fellas and it was a privilege to be a part of it myself.
And we have just come back from a similar trip with a group of girls from high school! Again it was a 6-day trip to Melbourne, this time with 8 girls and 3 other staff. We battled through troopies not starting and a delayed flight which meant an unplanned stopover in Adelaide, but despite the setbacks we made it to Melbourne and the girls had a fantastic time. The Melbourne Aquarium, surfing at Phillip Island and a basketball match were just a few of the things we did across the time we had in Melbourne.
Also this year Wanta did a trip to Darwin for the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival, as well as hosting a basketball group and circus crew running workshops in Arlparra School. It’s been a pleasure working in the school and with the kids in Arlparra this year!
Thank you so much for reading our blog and for your support of Wanta throughout 2024. As we look ahead, we’re filled with excitement for the opportunities and challenges that 2025 will bring, and we can’t wait to continue this adventure together. Here’s to another amazing year!
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