Stronger In Our Way Men's Forum 2025
UPDATE: Over 60 men from the East Kimberley region gathered in Kununurra for the second annual Stronger in Our Way Men’s Forum, a pivotal two-day event focused on cultural strength, connection, and healing. Held recently, this forum is a vital initiative organized by the Kununurra Waringarri Aboriginal Corporation and the Gawooleng Yawoodeng Aboriginal Corporation, aimed at fostering community resilience and personal growth among Indigenous men.
The forum, which took place on October 10-11, 2023, attracted participants from Kununurra, Wyndham, Warmun, Halls Creek, and surrounding communities. Each day, attendees engaged in meaningful discussions, sharing their experiences and personal journeys in a safe, culturally grounded environment.
Participants emphasized their commitment to becoming stronger role models and leaders for the younger generation. “Men came together not just to yarn, but to take responsibility for themselves, their families, and for the young ones watching,” said a representative from the Kununurra Waringarri Aboriginal Corporation. “When men walk strong in culture and accountability, the whole community feels it.”
The forum addressed critical issues such as healing from trauma, rebuilding cultural identity, and supporting young men. Many participants voiced the belief that true healing cannot occur in silence; it flourishes when men unite, sharing openly and supporting each other without shame.
Key outcomes from the forum include the identification of future directions to bolster men’s wellbeing in the East Kimberley. Participants highlighted the urgent need for more culturally led healing spaces, emphasizing that culture, lore, and identity should be central to all healing practices. Additionally, they called for establishing a robust, culturally-based men’s workforce, which would be supported through shared practices, training, and community networks.
The discussions aligned closely with national Closing the Gap targets and the WA Government’s Aboriginal Empowerment Strategy, underlining a collective commitment to enhancing social and emotional wellbeing, reducing the over-representation of Indigenous people in the justice system, and strengthening families through Aboriginal-led solutions.
As the forum concluded, participants expressed optimism for the future, recognizing community-led prevention strategies as essential to reducing youth offending and incarceration. Regular men’s circles and ongoing cultural activities were identified as vital to maintaining momentum and fostering a supportive environment for mental and physical wellbeing.
The Stronger in Our Way Men’s Forum serves not only as a platform for connection but as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from cultural pride and shared responsibility. This event marks a significant step towards healing and unity within the East Kimberley communities, showcasing what can be achieved when men come together with purpose and accountability.
NEXT: The community is now looking forward to implementing the ideas and strategies discussed, with a focus on creating lasting impacts that resonate well beyond the forum.
