‘Wanyaari’

means ‘To listen, learn & understand’

Terry Kildea - Wanyaari Founder & Inspiration

Terry was an Aboriginal Educator, Elder and Community Leader with extensive experience in all sectors of Indigenous education, research and reconciliation. He was born in Mooroopna on Yorta Yorta Country and raised by his grandmother from the Laanecoorie ‘Languycoorie’ mob and Loddon River mob of the Dja Dja Wurrung People in Central Victoria.

Terry enjoyed a distinguished and extensive career in which he held several senior positions in all sectors of Indigenous education. His career covered a broad range of education experiences which provided him with an in-depth wealth of knowledge, understanding of issues and challenges in Indigenous education. He is renowned for his passion for Aboriginal community empowerment, wellbeing and spirituality coupled with a pre-emptive, positive and confident attitude.

He was a highly dedicated and passionate Aboriginal educator and advocate for sustainable improvements for Indigenous students, People and Communities. He demonstrated the very highest standards of management and governance that has left a very positive legacy of pedagogical practices, educational values and inclusive practices for sustainable improvements in Indigenous education.

An outstanding feature of Terry’s leadership was creating opportunities that lead others to reach their full potential. His educational values, upbringing and culture knowledge were accentuated with the strong belief and commitment to continually make opportunities for improvements for Aboriginal People. He believed in the strength of his people and the power of education to change lives.

Terry was a respected Ngurungaeta and inspirational leader who led with passion, determination and heart, his footsteps paving the way for a better future for his People, while always honouring those who walked before us.

A unique approach

Here at Wanyaari, our approach can be characterised as holistic, culturally sensitive, and community-centered. We aim to address various aspects of individual and community well-being, including education, employment, personal well-being, and cultural strengthening, indicating a comprehensive and integrated approach to meeting the needs of the Aboriginal community.

Our programs and services are designed to be culturally appropriate and respectful, recognising the importance of Aboriginal culture in shaping individuals' lives and communities. This sensitivity ensures that our interventions resonate with the cultural values, beliefs, and practices of the community we serve.

Our focus on delivering programs and services directly to the local Aboriginal community demonstrates our commitment to engaging with and empowering community members. By involving community members in program design and delivery, we ensure that our initiatives are relevant, impactful, and sustainable.

Our engagement with non-Aboriginal organisations and businesses are underpinned by a collaborative approach that improves relationships and facilitated the best possible environment to implement initiatives. By working together with external stakeholders, we foster understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.

Overall, our approach values inclusivity, collaboration, cultural respect, and empowerment, with a focus on enhancing the well-being and resilience of the Aboriginal community.

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