Springfield’s Hymba Yumba Independent School held its annual school leaders badge ceremony early last week.
Hymba Yumba is an innovative school committed to teaching its children — known as ‘jarjum’ — the traditions of Australian Indigenous culture in an educational environment of unique facilities and programs like the visual art classroom and gallery.
On Tuesday, February 6, the school and its principal Karla Brady warmly welcomed all to the 2024 School Leaders Badge Ceremony, which included a behind-the-scenes tour of the school, entertainment from Traditional Owners, activities for jarjum and parents, food, and music.
During the ceremony, it was all smiles as jarjum Cienna and Allira were brought on stage and announced as the selected pair of leaders, and presented with their badges along with the principal and teachers.
They will lead various school activities such as student assembly (known as bynda), contribute to the development of a strong sense of community, and promote the school’s principles of respect.
To determine who would be chosen, the school undertook a rigorous nominations process at the end of last year.
Prospective leaders completed a written application and interview, before all jarjum participated in a secret ballot vote.
Foundation manager Kate Hassed called it a “celebration of the next generation of First Nation leaders”.
“As a School Leader, the jarjum will play a key role in fostering a positive and inclusive school environment by being actively involved in our Jarjum Representative Council,” Ms Hassed said.
“This Council will work closely with Hymba Yumba’s executive team, Elders and Parents Group, and our Board’s Educational Values Committee.”
Jordan MP Charis Mullen was one of many dignitaries in attendance.
“Congratulations to Cienna and Allira, the new School Leaders of Hymba Yumba Independent School,” Ms Mullen said.
“Amazing work by Karla Brady and her team as the school continues to grow from strength to strength.”
Hymba Yumba Independent School was established by the Hymba Yumba Community Hub Foundation in 2011.
A world-class arts facility is currently under construction at the school.
