Sinsa Mansell (TAS) pakana/Trawoolaway, pakana kanaplila
StoriesOct 15, 2020
Q&A
What does custodianship mean to you?
Custodianship is a responsibility. A responsibility to care for Country and to honour our cultural knowledge, systems and traditions. It is understanding diversity between nations. We have an obligation to care for Country, as we are Country and Country is us. It’s not only a responsibility but our deep intergenerational link of accountability. We must ensure that the diversity of these knowledge systems are respected and cultural protocols are honoured and continued for generations to come.
What attracted you to the Custodianship Program?
The work within our communities not only represents ourselves, it also extends out to country and people. Working together creates greater strength. I was drawn to the program because it was designed by First Nations leaders for First Nations peoples. I’m looking forward to connecting with Elders and role models across the country. I believe this program understands the responsibility we have of protecting and obtaining knowledge when it is our time. It is a program that is structured to delve deep into critical thinking around the importance of continuing to find sustainable ways of guiding diverse cultures.
Custodianship is a responsibility. A responsibility to care for Country and to honour our cultural knowledge, systems and traditions. It is understanding diversity between nations. We have an obligation to care for Country, as we are Country and Country is us.
Why do you think it is important to develop First Nations custodianship?
The Custodianship Program creates a space to have extremely important discussions. The word custodianship holds great meaning. This program is needed to guide these important conversations. It creates a platform for us to understand a broader ecology of peoples and their practices, so that we can continue to work together and make greater change for our people. Putting our words into action by investing our responsibility as cultural custodians. I feel extremely privileged to be partaking in the 2020 program.
What are the top three qualities of leaders that inspire you?
Strength, determination, dedication.
Life has many lessons. Those that have inspired me most have all three of these attributes. Being a leader is not determined by your position nor is it by any means an easy road. Leaders that have had greatest impact and influence on my journey have been those that openly share their journey of triumph and hardship. Offering tools that give me guidance to navigate life.
