‘Birrugan Bros’ Project is a transformative initiative, spearheaded by our First Nations Community Connector, Kev Dumas, to empower Aboriginal boys aged 12 to 24 in the Toormina and 2452 area.
Grounded in core principles of empowerment, equity, and accountability, Birrugan Bros celebrates culture, fosters meaningful relationships, and champions positive change. Our approach values; local engagement, prioritising the active involvement of young people and the local Aboriginal community in decision-making and program delivery.
Birrugan Bros was established by a group of Aboriginal boys and young men, symbolising collective identity and cultural security. Led by Kev Dumas, the project prioritises the well-being of local male First Nations youth through culturally responsive initiatives.
So far, the program has achieved significant successes with the writing and recording of the Birrugan Bros music track.
‘We’re the Birrugan Bros, young, black and handsome. This Gumbaynggirr land where ya standin’ (chorus line from Birrugan Bros first track, written and recorded with Grow The Music). These lyrics echo the sentiment and the sense of belonging and cultural pride at the core of this project.
Other successful initiatives include the facilitation of On Country Excursions, yarns and bonding activities, and a co-designed ‘Bro Speak’ program for First Nations students in the Bongil Bongil Community of Schools.
Proudly supported by community partners, the project is guided by an Advisory Group consisting of Aboriginal men from various sectors, including the NSW Police Force, Department of Education, NSW Health and Social Services.
Key to the success of Birrugan Bros is collaboration across school settings and the Toormina community.
Kev, as Becoming U’s First Nations Community Connector, plays a pivotal role, working closely with families, youth, and the Bongil Bongil Community of Schools. His contributions to Aboriginal Education Programs, Personalised Learning Pathways, and consultations with the AECG ensure our project remains responsive to both young people’s educational and cultural needs.
Through collaborative efforts and culturally enriching activities, this project has achieved remarkable outcomes in a short period of time.
Place-based Engagement: Birrugan Bros Project in Toormina engages the local Aboriginal Community, addressing specific needs collaboratively. With strong community ties, it ensures relevance and sustainability by involving families, leaders, and Elders in designing goals and activities.
Cultural Knowledge and Empowerment: Prioritising cultural identity, the project embeds traditional knowledge into its community and school-based programs, fostering pride and resilience among young Aboriginal men. This approach strengthens connections across the Bongil Bongil Community, respecting First Nations perspectives and experiences.
Holistic Development: Built on relationships, Birrugan Bros program emphasises the role of local First Nations mentors in ensuring positive outcomes for young Aboriginal men. Mentorship, combined with culturally sensitive education and vocational training, cultivates cultural well-being and fosters the emergence of future Aboriginal leaders.
