Maindim Yangbala & Marrgi Jarndunil Program

In 2022 BYFH began a ground-breaking program: Maindim Yangbala (for boys) and Marrgi Jarndunil Program (for girls). The program balances on-country education (through cultural camps led by a senior Traditional Owner) with an intensive eight week literacy and numeracy course based in Broome. The focus of the on-country program is to instil in young people the overarching principles of responsibility and respect for authority. This is done by utilising a traditional Aboriginal methodology of connection to land and culture.

The literacy, numeracy and life skills aspect of Maindim Yangbala & Marrgi Jarndunil is delivered by qualified teachers. They engage the young people through fun, hands-on and experiential activities - such as building E-scooters! - which help develop vocational and trade skills and can be mapped against the national curriculum. The teachers are also supported by youth workers, who help case manage families, identify any disabilities the participants may have and link participants with other support organisations in Broome.

Maindim Yangbala and Marrgi Jarndunil have been designed to prevent criminal recidivism. They are for young people who are not currently engaged in education and BYFH seeks permission from local schools to enable off-site learning.

This program is funded through the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.