Galiwin’ku, NT

My name is Mariana Yalumbuwuy Gurruwiwi. I am from Galiwinku, Elcho Island.

I enjoy listening to music, spending time with family, and going hunting. I also really enjoy coming into work, especially when I get to work alongside other people and learn together.

Research and Community Work – Walking Together Program
I have been working with the Walking Together project for the past 18 months, supporting community health through point-of-care checks and education. I’ve done a lot of Djama (work) talking about health and supporting participants with their health information.

A highlight of my involvement was travelling to Garma Festival to present about the Walking Together project and share our work with a wider audience. This experience made me proud to represent my community and be part of a project that is making a difference.

Other Work Experience

  • Previously worked at the ALPA Store, where I gained retail and customer service skills.

Education and Qualifications

  • Attended:
    • Nakara Primary School, Darwin
    • Healesville Middle School and Worawa Aboriginal College, Melbourne
    • Djarragun College, Queensland
    • Shepherdson College, Galiwin’ku – where I completed my senior schooling

Certificates and Training

  • Walking Together Certificate
  • Mathematics Certificate (from school)
  • ALPA retail training (Register training)
  • Walking Together program training

Why Research is Important to Me
Research helps us find new ways to do things – to improve health, to learn more, and to help people in ways that are practical and meaningful. It also brings knowledge back to the community.

What Makes Walking Together Work Well

  • Helping people understand their health
  • Working alongside family and community
  • Sharing information in Yolŋu Matha and English so everyone understands

Special Skills

  • Experienced in point-of-care health checks
  • Bilingual: I speak Yolŋu Matha and English
  • Able to explain health information in ways that people understand
  • Confident in data entry using iPads and digital systems

Future Aspirations
I’m interested in continuing to work in health – especially with Miwatj Health and the Walking Together program. I’m also interested in working in childcare in the future, supporting children’s learning and development in the community.