Georgian student explores diverse Indigenous communities in Australia

Aug. 14, 2024

Tree planting, whale watching, guided walks through lush rainforests, and Indigenous culture and knowledge sharing were just some of the highlights of a recent two-week study tour in Australia. Eight Indigenous Georgian College students from various programs recently traveled to The University of Wollongong in Australia along with 12 other students from Cambrian College and Algonquin College to learn about Australia’s Indigenous people and explore their history and culture. The experience was part of a first-of-its-kind, immersive virtual reality project to foster connections among diverse Indigenous communities.

We spoke with Lauryn Edwards, a second-year student in the Indigenous Community and Social Development program, who shared how much this experience meant.

Why did you choose Georgian for your studies and how has your experience been so far?

I chose Georgian because it caught my interest as the only college with a program like this that also provides a co-op work term. The highlights of my Georgian experience would be the connections and relationships I’ve made with the staff and students in the Indigenous Resource Centre, and having a program coordinator who’s passionate about her job and takes great care of her students.

My main goal in life is to give back to my people and community. My passion lies in helping Indigenous communities, especially Indigenous youth, and this program is allowing me to envision myself doing this work. I always told myself I wanted to go into a career where I work with Indigenous youth or within the government.

How did you find out about this trip to Australia and what made you decide to apply for it?

Initially I took part in a research study in November of 2023, then I received an email regarding the opportunity from the college and discussed it with my program coordinator and she encouraged me to apply.

Can you describe the thoughts and feelings you had prior to going on the trip?

I was more excited than anything. I’m the first in my family to do something like this and I knew I had people from my community watching me as well, so I wanted to set that example of embracing new things and being excited to do so.

What was it like to experience Georgian’s virtual reality (VR) worlds and how did that enhance your learning?

Before going on this trip, I was part of an Indigenous Global Perspectives VR course and I got to experience the VR worlds. It felt so surreal to see the things I saw in VR in real life. The VR prepared me to be respectful and open when coming into Australia. I really wanted to make a good impression and show the staff and elders on this trip that I came here to exchange and retain knowledge with our relatives.

What did your day-to-day look like on the trip?

Our mornings started early, filled with workshops and activities, followed by some free time. Each day had a unique focus. One particularly memorable day was dedicated to learning about Indigenous people and their connection to the land. We began our morning with a walk through the University of Wollongong’s Botanic Garden, gaining knowledge about traditional plants and their uses. This was followed by a tree-planting activity, where we received insightful lessons about the significance of these plants. The day culminated with a visit to Hill 60, a historic site where First Nations communities once lived before the arrival of settlers.

What was the most memorable part of the experience for you?

My most memorable part of the entire trip was our time in Cairns and the Daintree Rainforest. Meeting our tour guides Jon Jon and Ben, along with the elders we respectfully called aunties and uncles, was an unforgettable experience. Listening to their stories as Indigenous people and connecting with them on a profound spiritual level was extraordinary. They have truly become my second family and I have built lifelong kinships that I’ll always treasure. I love my Yalada family dearly.

Is there anything that surprised you about the differences (or similarities) between Australia’s Indigenous people/culture/practices compared to Canada?

Something that surprised me was that they use some of the same slang that we use here in our First Nations communities across Turtle Island. So, it felt like I was home the entire time in Australia and it made it so much easier to connect.

What were some of the teachings/learnings you took away from the study tour and why did those stand out for you?

I came out of this with a bigger heart and spirit, profoundly enriched by the importance of Indigenous knowledge exchange. By disconnecting from our phones, I embraced the practice of living in the moment, allowing me to build deep, genuine connections not only with the people around me but also with the land itself.

This experience taught me to appreciate the wisdom passed down through generations, emphasizing the value of community, respect for nature and the interconnectedness of all life. It was a transformative lesson in slowing down, listening and truly engaging with the world around me.

What did it mean for you to be able to travel across the world for this study opportunity?

Attending this study trip and having the opportunity to travel meant everything to me. It was a dream I never imagined would come true. This experience wasn’t just for me; it was for my family and my community. It was for the rez kids to see that such opportunities are possible and that they, too, can achieve their dreams. This trip also brought healing to my inner child, fulfilling a deep-seated yearning and providing a sense of accomplishment. It was truly the trip of a lifetime, one that I will cherish and remember forever.