WAALI celebrated 15 Yorga Djenna Bidi (YDB) graduates at Government House, hosted by His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM and Mrs Dawson. The event saw WAALI’s Circle of Elders, Board, staff, family, friends, sponsors, and employers supporting the yorga (women) on their leadership journeys.
The graduates’ speeches highlighted their achievements, including strengthened cultural identities, a wider sisterhood network, and individual leadership development. WAALI honoured graduates Anouska Bonney, Raylene Clayton-Bonney, Ashton Drage, Georgina Egan-Peel, Lieshia Green, Kristy Indich, Kelsee Kickett, Lois Little, Caitlan Markiewicz, Jodie Riley, Letiesha Warner, Victoria Ford, Kristy Weston, Rachael Pearson, and Kristeen Penny for their dedication.
The YDB program provided tools for the women to continue as community leaders, offering networking opportunities and promoting self-care. The 2024 graduates inspire other yorga on their leadership paths. Founded by Dr Robyn Smith-Walley and Rishelle Humes, the program continues to grow and inspire Aboriginal communities.
WAALI thanks all stakeholders for their support and wishes the graduates success. The Alumni program ensures ongoing relationships and leadership development. In 2025, WAALI looks forward to supporting more mob in their leadership journeys.
