Stellar Step UP! Step Together: A New Program Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Stellar Step UP! Step Together is a groundbreaking program that offers dance and movement classes specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This initiative is the result of a collaborative effort between the local community group, The Stellar Company, and the Canberra First Nations dance group, Project Dust. The program has received funding from the ACT Government’s Healthy Canberra Grants program, with a focus on enhancing health education, intergenerational support, and connection to Country and culture.
Empowering Through Positive Partnerships and Community Connection
- The classes aim to promote positive partnerships, body acceptance, and social and community connection among participants.
- There will be a total of 280 classes scheduled over the next year, divided into seven series, each led by experienced teachers.
“Stellar Step UP! is proving to be a deeply powerful and empowering program,” commented Liz Lea, Artistic Director of The Stellar Company. This initiative addresses some of the barriers faced by First Nations people in living a healthy life, with a strong emphasis on maintaining connections to Country, culture, and community.
Emma Laverty, founder of Project Dust, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “As a proud Darug woman, I have a strong interest in Aboriginal contemporary dance, language, and history.” The funding provided by ACT Health has played a vital role in breaking down barriers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, providing access to spaces and activities that promote community involvement and physical activity.
Expanding Inclusivity
In addition to programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, The Stellar Company also offers classes for multicultural and LGBTIQ+ young people, as well as individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities. The organization is dedicated to offering opportunities for people of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities to participate in dance and fitness activities.
Collaborating with local dance and fitness businesses such as Dance4Fitness, Mudra and Moves, and Subsdance, The Stellar Step UP! Program aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all participants.
Impact Beyond Dance: Yawarj Mara, Strong Pathways Program
Another beneficiary of the Healthy Canberra Grants program is the Yerrabi Yurwang Child and Family Aboriginal Corporation, which runs the Yawarj Mara, Strong Pathways program. This initiative brings together Aboriginal young people from across the ACT, engaging them in cultural activities such as song, dance, sports, mentoring, skills development, and health education to promote empowerment and overall well-being.
For more information about the Stellar Step UP! program, visit their official website.
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