In this episode of Educator Yarns, we meet Andrea de Silva, a finalist for Ally of the Year at the Koorie Curriculum Educator Awards.
Originally from India, Andrea shares her remarkable journey of cultural discovery and connection as she learned to authentically embed Aboriginal perspectives into her early childhood education practice. From initial uncertainty about protocols to becoming a confident advocate for Gana culture and language, Andrea's story demonstrates how educators from diverse backgrounds can meaningfully engage with Aboriginal cultures.
Through her experiences with Uncle Tamaru's Gana language course, building relationships with Aboriginal families, and navigating cultural protocols with respect and humility, Andrea offers practical wisdom for educators beginning their own reconciliation journey.
Her approach—rooted in genuine curiosity, cultural humility, and a commitment to getting it right—provides a roadmap for non-Indigenous educators seeking to create inclusive learning environments that honour Aboriginal voices and perspectives.
Key Takeaways:
- Start with genuine connection: Andrea's journey began by wanting to connect more closely with Aboriginal families in her centre, recognising that understanding culture was essential for building authentic relationships
- Seek proper cultural guidance: Working with Uncle Tamaru through Galkina Beek provided authentic knowledge about Gana language, symbols, and protocols—moving beyond generic Google searches to place-based learning
- Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities: When Andrea unknowingly photographed an Aboriginal girl with a didgeridoo, she used the family's gentle correction as a chance to deepen her understanding of gendered cultural protocols
- Daily practice creates lasting impact: Implementing daily yarning circles and incorporating Gana language into everyday routines helps children naturally integrate Aboriginal words into their vocabulary
- Understand diversity within Aboriginal cultures: Andrea learned the important distinction between general Aboriginal culture and specific Gana practices, including differences in artwork, language, and customs
- Build resource networks: Utilising tools like the Gana Language Dictionary and maintaining ongoing connections with cultural mentors ensures continued authentic practice
- Find cultural connections: Andrea discovered surprising similarities between Indian and Aboriginal cultures, particularly in bush tucker plants, family structures, and respect for Elders
- Don't let fear stop you: Andrea's key advice—"don't be scared to explore the culture"—emphasises that taking the first step leads to community support and guidance
- Involve families meaningfully: Regular communication about cultural activities, smoking ceremonies, and invitations to participate keeps Aboriginal families engaged as active partners
- Make learning fun and relevant: Teaching songs like "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" in Gana language makes cultural learning engaging and memorable for young children
Andrea's journey reminds us that becoming an ally isn't about perfection—it's about showing up with respect, humility, and a genuine desire to learn.
Her story proves that educators from any cultural background can become powerful advocates for Aboriginal perspectives when they approach the work with an open heart and commitment to getting it right. As Andrea says, "Support the Aboriginal culture and connect with the generations… don't be fearful."
Have a question for Educator Yarns? Call 02 5300 0306 and leave a voicemail with your early childhood query about embedding Aboriginal perspectives, and you might hear your question answered in a future episode.
Resources discussed in this episode:
- Gana Language Dictionary
- Kuma Kaaru
- Koori Curriculum & Bush Kind Australia Events
- Koori Curriculum Professional Development
- Bush Kindy Australia Professional Development
- Reconciliation Australia
- Narragunnawali
- 8 Ways of Learning
Connect with Jessica Staines:
- Koori Curriculum
- Koori Curriculum Educator Community
- Shirley Pearl & Her Bush Friends
- The Koori Curriculum Club
- Koori Curriculum Events
Connect with Andrea de Silva:
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