An indigenous peer support program based in the Pilbara was the recipient of the Howard Read Fund’s inaugural grant round.

 

Roebourne Girls FX group received the grant to purchase sewing machines, fabrics and dance wear, including shoes, as part of its efforts to promote a positive peer culture amongst Aboriginal girls in Roebourne encourage regular school attendance.  The girls participated in activities such as grooming and deportment, fashion design, modeling, and dance.

 

The program was designed to assist the girls develop their self esteem and self confidence whilst learning a variety of new skills.  With the help of the Howard Read grant, the girls learnt to design, sew and model their own fashion creations in a way that reflected their own special culture and environment.  The dancing shoes enabled the girls to participate actively in a local dance program.  This enhanced their team work in an enjoyable and positive learning environment.

 

The Howard Read Fund, created under the umbrella of the Western Australian Community Foundation, aims to support indigenous education and business development.