Humans of GOTAFE – Kyrone Nathenial Black
With NAIDOC Week in full swing across our communities, it is a timely reminder of all the ways to support and celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Kyrone Nathenial Black is a Koorie Student Support Officer (KSSO) at GOTAFE.
Together with the Koorie Unit at GOTAFE, Kyrone was involved in assisting organise the GOTAFE Goulburn Valley League's Say No to Violence round held in June, which he says was a real learning experience.
“Tracy is a very strong person and has so much knowledge,” he said.
“She inspires me because of how much she does for the community without expecting anything in return.”
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is ‘For Our Elders’ – something which resonates strongly with Kyrone.
"NAIDOC represents to me a time for everyone to come together, enjoy each other’s company share stories and culture with the rest of our community. Younger generations look up to our Elders and thank them for paving the way for the younger generation to be able to live their lives the way they want to, and to be seen as a person. Elders are a massive part of the Aboriginal/Torres Strait culture, and they deserve to be celebrated."
As a Koorie Student Support Officer, Kyrone is using his passion for culture and love of helping others to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through their studies.
“Every day can be so different in my role,” Kyrone said.
Generally, his day starts with him checking in on some of GOTAFE’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students – which always puts a smile on his face.
“I check in to see whether they are needing any in-class support during the week,” he said.
“Once I have finished calling the students, I do some in-class support and help any community members trying to find the right information regarding further education.”
Kyrone’s favourite part of the job is seeing students finish their course.
This year, GOTAFE is encouraging community to celebrate and support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and their voices outside of NAIDOC Week.
“Take it upon yourself to learn and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history,” Kyrone said.
“Be an ally; treat everyone equally all the time and develop an understanding of cultural safety.
“Most importantly, take the opportunity to speak with fellow Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders and make them feel welcome - because they deserve to be here too.”