Yuuingan Dhilla Yari: Indigenous Languages Forum

About the Forum  

This year, Yuuingan Dhilla Yari returns as a Forum with the theme Create to Connect: First Languages in Action, highlighting the many ways Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are being strengthened, shared and celebrated through community, creativity, education and cultural practice. Bringing together language practitioners, creatives, educators, researchers, organisations and community members, the one-day forum will explore how First Languages are being activated through community initiatives, education, digital storytelling, contemporary media and public programs.  

Guided by MC Scott Wilson, the day will centre conversation, connection and knowledge sharing, featuring a keynote presentation followed by a facilitated panel conversation. The afternoon program will then open into a community yarning space designed for networking and exchange with practitioners, organisations and fellow attendees, including community exchange tables, Creative Residency spotlights and curator tours of Through Mununjali Eyes in kuril dhagun. 

Keynote Speakers 

We’re pleased to welcome a keynote from Common Ground, co-presented by CEO Gemma Pol and Vanessa Morris. Common Ground is a First Nations-led not-for-profit organisation that uses storytelling, education and advocacy to amplify First Nations voices, strengthen pathways for storytellers, and build greater understanding and accountability across systems such as schools, media and public life. Grounded in truth-telling, reciprocity and justice, Common Ground works with communities to share knowledge in ways that support connection, challenge dominant narratives and imagine stronger futures. 

Following the morning program, the afternoon will open into a more informal community yarning space for networking, exchange and connection. The afternoon will include opportunities to: 

• Visit community exchange tables with practitioners and organisations working across language, education, collections, cultural heritage and creative practice 
• Learn about resources, programs and pathways that support First Languages work 
• Take part in curator tours of Through Mununjali Eyes in kuril dhagun 
• Hear from Creative Residents through spotlights featuring First Nations artists and language-led creative projects 

Whether you are already deeply involved in language work or just starting to explore what is possible for your community, this year’s forum will offer space to listen, learn, connect and be inspired. Learn more about the forum.