The Reciprocal Mentoring program is based on the Indigenous ethic of reciprocity – a tradition that is a fundamental responsibility for relationships with all life.
The concept of reciprocity describes Indigenous peoples’ ancient practice that draws from our interconnectedness with all our physical and social structures. Reciprocity has been a social adhesive for Indigenous peoples; it is the glue that has ensured our survival. Reciprocity is about sharing, about understanding that our survival depends on the dissemination of knowledge, of food, shelter, songs, art and stories and so forth.
The concept of the Program is described in Dharug language and Te Reo:
Bayala Ngara Ngurragu
In Dharug ‘Bayala’ means sharing, talking, yarning knowledges and ‘Ngara’ means deep listening, learning, thinking, sitting, peace. Ngurragu is referring to Country.
Whanaungatanga Manaakitanga
In Māori, Whanaungatanga is about relationships, kinship and a sense of family connection. It is created through shared experiences and working together and provides people with a sense of belonging. Manaakitanga is about hospitality, kindness, generosity, support – the process of showing respect, generosity and care for others.
The Reciprocal Mentoring Program is comprised of two activities:
Day of Collaborations
A community day where CEVAW RFs and HDRs are selected to share their research with Indigenous community organisations.
On-Country Learning
Everywhere you are, you are on-Country//Whenua. The on-Country experience is offered annually. In odd years, the experience is offered in collaboration with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community. Every second year an opportunity to travel to Aotearoa and learn from Māori and Pasifika peoples is offered.
The Reciprocal Mentoring Program brings together Indigenous family violence professionals and provides CEVAW HDRs and RFs an opportunity to share their research and understand the priorities of Indigenous communities as they navigate the violence of colonialism. The Program provides opportunities for CEVAW members to learn from Indigenous professionals about what will benefit communities in terms of research and outputs and develop, gain a deeper understanding of the concept of reciprocity and how to practice it, and experience Country/Whenua with Indigenous peoples. Both activities are targeted to CEVAW HDRs and RFs.
