Description
Abstract
Purpose: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Australian) young people seek to have agency, autonomy and self-determination to contribute to solutions for their own wellbeing. However, there is a lack of literature describing the establishment by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people of their own organisations. This article provides a detailed case study of such an organisation (Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good, DIYDG) that was established in Cairns by a group of young people after a community tragedy which resulted in the deaths of 8 children. The study explores the factors driving their empowerment and processes they implement to empower others.
Design/methodology/approach: An in depth-case study was performed and includes data, interviews and observations spanning from 2012 to 2023. This paper was co-written by founding members of the organisation.
Findings: Motivated by a sense of powerlessness, young people formed a collective as a form of resistance. The DIYDG Way, is their empowerment model that enables them to guide 11 community programs, ensuring ongoing youth involvement and opportunities for empowerment. Their family structure and grassroots led programs highlight the importance of whole community responses in youth empowerment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
Originality/value: This paper describes the establishment of the DIYDG organisation and provides important insights into the ways Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people believe they can be empowered and the challenges they face.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, youth empowerment, First Nations youth, young people.
