A First Nations designed and led education initiative in one of Western Australia's most remote towns has been recognised for its effective strategic delivery.
The Y WA's 'Education Engagement and Attainment Initiative' is known locally in Newman as Pakala Jijikaja Yankuni-la, meaning 'Get up young people, let's go!'.
The program was formally acknowledged for its impact and innovation, winning the Kooya Local Engagement Excellence Award at the AIM WA Pinnacle Awards recently.
Rooted in Martu language and named by local Elders to reflect aspiration and forward momentum, the initiative is designed, led, and delivered by First Nations staff.
The program's strategic approach is centred on Aboriginal decision-making, cultural authority and community co-design to strengthen educational engagement, wellbeing, and cultural identity among young people.
Program coordinator Sammi Ryder, of the Whadjak, Yued, Ballardong, Gnaala Karla Boodja and Wagyl Kaip Noongar nations with Jaru connections, said it meant a great deal to her team and the families they work with for the small, remote community program to be recognised at a state level.
"This award acknowledges the strength, resilience and leadership within our community," she said.
"It isn't just our win, it belongs to everyone in Newman."
The Kooya Local Engagement Excellence Award recognises organisations which show high-performing cross-sector collaboration, shared accountability, and the capability to navigate complex community environments through culturally-informed leadership and trusted relationships.
Award recipients receive $20,000 in AIM WA workplace training, with the Y WA to reinvest this funding to further build capability of its Aboriginal workforce and enhance service delivery across remote communities.
Y WA chief executive officer Dr Tim McDonald congratulated Ms Ryder and the entire program team for championing authentic community engagement every day.
"This recognition reflects your dedication, passion, and the meaningful work you do to help children, young people and communities in Newman flourish," he said.
Pakala Jijikaja Yankuni-la recently transitioned to a dedicated, culturally safe East Newman site, a move enabled by its strong Aboriginal leadership and deep community trust, which has redefined the model of youth support in Newman.
The service offers daily drop-ins, meals, mentoring, referrals, and coordinated support with key Aboriginal and mainstream partners, including the Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, local schools, and the West Coast Eagles.
The integrated model reflected a commitment to culturally anchored service delivery and sustainable community capacity building.
Early data from the program indicated increased youth participation, improved cross-agency collaboration and strengthened community trust, demonstrating the positive effect of First Nations-led program design in one of WA's most remote regions.
