What is Gamarada?

Gamarada, meaning ‘comrades or friends’ in the Gadigal language of the Eroa Nation is the name that has been given to our program by Uncle Shane Phillips (Tribal Warrior Association). The Gamarada men’s group emerged out of recognition of unmet needs and lost potential among men in Redfern. It is an organic, community developed and driven program which is providing a safe way for Indigenous men to come together to heal themselves and aid in the healing of others.

“Healing is a spiritual process that includes therapeutic change and cultural renewal.”

(2008 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner’s Social Justice Report).

Traditional Indigenous healing methods form the core of the program with some Eastern and Western influences. Throughout the program there is also an emphasis on practical techniques including stress and anger management and the promotion of life skills.  

“Gamarada is a grass roots program driven by goodwill. The principles of the program are age old. Its about respect for self, continuing our culture and taking responsibility for our actions”

- Ken Zulumovski, Gamarada Leader

Gamarada is owned by those who attend the program. It is an opportunity for participants to join together as brothers, to create a safe space for self-growth and healing, and to support others. The program aims to build greater respect for Aboriginality, equip participants with practical skills, and to empower them within their wider community. Achieving these aims is supported through the building of inner strength, discipline, willpower and self-control.

Gamarada recognizes a necessity to heal those who will become leaders so that their full potential to achieve their own life goals and to help others is realised. By empowering individuals we hope they will use their knowledge to teach others. David Leha is the first graduate of the program who has done this. He has been approved by Corrective Services to run sessions within the department.

To see Gamarada in action please watch short clip below :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctCYng2gz4I

or check out our YOUTUBE page for more videos.

http://www.youtube.com/user/gamarada07?feature=watch

 Current Programs

• - Gamarada Men’s 10 week program
• - Two day Healing and Life Skills Workshop
• - Anger Management and Self Healing Session
• - Biyanga Naminma

For more detail on the programs listed above please head to our Programs Page (LINK)

Biyang Naminma is currently running at from 5:30-8:00pm on Monday Nights until the 19^th December at the Redfern Community Centre (corner of Hugo and Caroline Streets).  

Please email Ken Zulumovski (ken.z@gamarada.org.au) for further information regarding the programs listed above.