Manny Williams is a proud Kalkadoon, Pitta Pitta & Bundjalung man from his father’s side and Thai heritage on his mother’s side. Raised in Mount Isa North West QLD on Kalkadoon Country working in various roles within the Youth and Community services sector. He is a strong advocate for our youth, especially those affected by the juvenile justice and child protection systems. Manny worked previously as a facilitator delivering activities that help a young person strengthen their social and emotional wellbeing and cultural identity. Manny is currently living and working in Gimuy (Cairns).
“Being a part of the inaugural Fullaship Program in 2022, I experienced first hand how much Culture is Life is invested in amplifying the voices and lived experiences of, as well as the personal and professional development of young people. Now joining the team, I get to experience this everyday and support other young people, to find their voice and create spaces where they can grow, heal and learn. I feel very honoured to have been welcomed to team and work alongside the deadly mob at Culture is Life. I get to learn every day from a diverse and extremely talented group of people within a organisation that aligns with my values and creates safer environments for young mob through some deadly programs, projects, policy, research and social impact campaigns.”
“As I sit here on the esplanade in Gimuy (Cairns) reflecting on the first Fullaship intensive of 2024 held on Wurundjeri Country, I can’t help but smile as my body fills with love and care. The very first value that one of the fellows shared with the group in our first workshop. Witnessing this small collective of gifted, like-minded, passionate and caring young mob connect over five days was something special to be a part of. A word that was gifted to the group by one of the fellows ‘Gurrutu raypirr’i meaning obligation to Lore, a word specific to Arnhem Land.
This reaffirmed that it is our obligation as young story-tellers and aspiring leaders, to ensure we continue connecting to Culture, Language, Country and Community. Not only is it vital for our spirit and well-being, but also as our obligation to our old people to ensure knowledge and practices are learnt and passed onto future generations. Those beautiful words shared have set the foundation for this year’s cohort and as these next few months slowly pass by, the growth that will come in 12 months will be incredible to witness. As an alumni, I understand how each intensive holds its own unique experience and learnings, so I’m looking forward to planning intensive 2 that will be held in Tropical Far North Qld in Gimuy Walubara Yidinji and Yirrganydji Country and surrounding Nations. A place I have called home for the past 3 years that has kept me safe and grounded being off Country. This second intensive will provide its own experience that each fellow can learn and reflect on.”
– Manny Williams (Kalkadoon, Pitta Pitta and Bundjalung)