National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) invites all Australians to reflect upon our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to consider the part each of us may play in advancing reconciliation. This year’s theme, “All In”, stands as a powerful reminder that reconciliation does not occur upon the sidelines; rather, it demands commitment, sustained action and enduring partnership. It is precisely this conviction that informs the approach taken by Engineers Without Borders Australia (EWB).
At EWB, our Reconciliation Action Plan recognises that meaningful reconciliation is built upon relationships grounded in trust, respect and shared purpose. In keeping with this commitment, EWB staff participated in RMIT University’s National Reconciliation Week webinar, Reconciliation in Action, joining students, staff and community partners to consider what genuine partnership entails in practice.
The conversation that ensued proved both instructive and affirming. It showcased compelling examples of enduring collaboration with First Nations communities, and reinforced that reconciliation is strengthened through practical action, accountability and sustained relationships, rather than through isolated, one-off initiatives.
Reconciliation is strengthened through practical action, accountability and sustained relationships, rather than through isolated, one-off initiatives
Focusing upon the “All In” theme, the discussion reaffirmed that lasting change requires the embedding of reconciliation within the very manner in which we learn, work and partner each day. Our partnership with the Ngarara Willim Centre at RMIT University continues to deepen. Together, we are establishing more equitable pathways into STEM for First Nations young people, as well as for other communities that have long faced barriers to participation.
Our collaboration reflects a shared commitment to culturally safe learning environments, to Indigenous mentoring, and to the creation of opportunities for young people to see themselves represented within engineering, technology and science. Together we are enabling young people to engage with university environments, to connect with Indigenous mentors, and to explore pathways into higher education, internships and future careers in STEM.
Our partnership embodies the spirit of “All In”, acknowledging that reconciliation is not achieved through isolated projects, but through enduring relationships in which organisations listen, learn and work alongside First Nations peoples to bring about shared outcomes. At its foundation, this reflects a truth about engineering itself.
At EWB, we understand that engineering is, ultimately, about people. The building of a more equitable and sustainable future depends upon diverse perspectives, respectful partnership and the creation of opportunities for all to contribute. It is in that spirit that we pause to acknowledge those who have travelled this path alongside us.
At EWB, we understand that engineering is, ultimately, about people.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our colleagues at RMIT University and the Ngarara Willim Centre for their leadership, generosity and continued collaboration. Together, we are helping to forge pathways that enable a greater number of young people to pursue STEM, while contributing to a future in which reconciliation is embedded within the way we work, learn and innovate.
For reconciliation remains the responsibility for each of us. And this National Reconciliation
RECONCILIATION
NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK
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