Newsletter for the Rotary Club of Western Endeavour - Issue No.: 405 Issue Date: 5 Sep, 2010

We were very fortunate to listen to Madeline Anderson who spoke about her experience with RYLA and how she is now able to help her extended aboriginal family achieve their goals. Madeline gave a very moving presentation which had us all listening intently and learning from her.

Madeline comes from a family where she has 4 brothers and an extended family of about 50 people. She was brought-up by her family elders and with some mentoring by an Irish/Australian couple. She also explained to us about the role of elders in families.

Madeline was sponsored to go to Boarding School at Perth College in upper high school by the couple. This was the first time she was away from her family and she found this very challenging, but it has now helped her to be more confident. RYLA also provided her with the opportunity to develop and use leadership skills.

Madeline has a strong connection to family and is now helping her own extended family to set their goals, communicate in a positive way and be respected by everyone.

It is now her own goal to start the process with other aboriginal families and to have the support of the elders in each family group. The elders have a very important role in aboriginal communities/families and they want to improve the life of their families.

This was a very important meeting for myself and I believe everybody who attended was also moved by Madeline and her experience.  I am sure everyone wishes Madeline well in meeting her new goals for aboriginal families.

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Osborne Park for inviting our Club to this wonderful meeting.