What’s Happening?
Shalom Family Church in Townsville, with support from Carinity’s Collaborative Community Projects, is fostering the next generation of Indigenous Australian leaders through ‘The Mentoring Project.’
This initiative mentors 20 disadvantaged First Nations youth, providing cultural and faith-based activities, leadership development, and employment opportunities.
Why It Matters?
The program empowers young Indigenous Australians, helping them grow in their identity, culture, and leadership.
It creates a pathway for these youths to become change-makers within their communities, inspired by leaders like Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo.
The project bridges gaps caused by social isolation, financial hardship, and family violence, nurturing resilience and hope.
ceremony in Paluma Rainforest, on Nywaigi country.
Local Impact
Shalom Family Church, led by Pastor Andy and Emma Bollom, has a community of around 75 people, primarily Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Through their mentoring initiative, they provide faith, cultural education, and community service, strengthening connections with Carinity Education Shalom School and the broader Townsville community.
By the Numbers
- 20 First Nations youth aged 10–17 are mentored through the program.
- Participants engage in quarterly youth weekend camps, offering cultural experiences and family respite.
- The church community comprises approximately 75 members and 10 families from First Nations backgrounds.
Zoom In
Mentoring activities have included learning to harvest ochre on Nywaigi Rainforest Country, hiking Yunbenun (Magnetic Island), and foraging mangroves near Ingham, where participants cooked their catch on hot coals.
Andy Bollom shared, “Learning on country, and before our creator, is essential for faith and cultural identity formation.”
In December 2024, a five-day road trip to Yarrabah Aboriginal community allowed participants to serve, listen, and learn, contributing to their Christmas celebrations.
“By developing the core group, they will grow in their identity, culture, and leadership within their families and communities, and will provide a broader positive impact within their communities,” Andy said.
ochre on Nywaigi rainforest country.
Zoom Out
Inspired by Jesus Christ and land rights activist Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo, The Mentoring Project highlights the power of faith and perseverance in overcoming adversity.
“He was one man who overcame a disadvantaged background and much adversity yet changed the landscape of our nation for First Nations peoples,” Andy said.
What to Look for Next?
The Mentoring Project plans to continue its impactful camps and community service projects in 2025, further strengthening ties with the local community and nurturing the next wave of Indigenous leaders.
