Our Yanalangami: Strong Women, Strong Communities program was independently evaluated by the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The interim report highlights the profound impact of the program and affirms its role in creating lasting change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
The evaluation found that a high degree of change in the lives of participants can be directly attributed to Yanalangami, supporting significant personal and professional growth. For example, one alumna was appointed to a state industry advisory board, becoming the first Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person to be represented on that board. Another applied for and accepted a promotion she may not have otherwise considered, while another took on the role of Chair for a local Aboriginal organisation focused on domestic and family violence.
Beyond professional development, the evaluation revealed that Yanalangami produces life-changing outcomes in participants’ personal lives. Several women reported leaving coercive, unhealthy, or violent relationships as a direct result of their involvement in the program. This demonstrates how Yanalangami supports women to thrive holistically, personally, professionally, and within their communities.
Central to these outcomes is Yanalangami’s strengths-based, trauma-informed approach, which celebrates the capacities of women and their communities and fosters benefits that ripple out to families, workplaces, and communities. The evaluation reinforces what we witness every day, when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are supported to walk strong in their leadership, the effects are transformative and far-reaching.
We are deeply grateful to our Changemakers for sharing their experiences and insights, helping us continue to strengthen the program.
To read the Yanalangami Evaluation Interim Report, please click here.
With deep respect,
The Yanalangami Team
