Knowing who you are: The power of identity

Before getting involved with NASCA, Zac wanted to drop out of school. But by connecting to his Culture his sense of identity and belonging grew, and today he is thriving.

“My Pop was adopted, I don’t think he really knew for a lot of his life too much about who he is and where he comes from, so my family doesn’t know much about our Culture,” says Zac.

For so many of NASCA’s students, this is their story. 

A story of cultural disconnection and loss. A story of not knowing who you are, or where you come from – which can have a significant impact on your sense of identity and overall well-being. 

“We have so many young people who come through our NASCA program who are the first in their family to identify as Aboriginal,” says NASCA Sydney Team Leader, Harry Murphy.

“So having that connection to Culture and that space where you’re comfortable and safe to grow is everything,” says Harry.

“When I was in year 10 I wanted to drop out, but I decided to stay because of NASCA and the other Indigenous programs we have. I love them, they are awesome.

NASCA makes me feel like I am part of a community, it gives me a sense of identity, knowing who I am and where I come from. I never knew my Culture before, but now I know it, and that makes me feel unique,” says Zac.

It isn’t just the connection to Culture that has seen this 16-year-old Torres Strait Islander man flourish, by being a part of NASCA he has made lifelong friendships and has had opportunities to develop important leadership skills.

“NASCA has taught me how to stand up for myself, how to know right from wrong, I’ve been to Garma which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I’ve won a NASCA Award, they’ve just taught me about life and how to get through it,” says Zac.

“Zac is always helping out, looking out for other people, always helping the younger kids, he is a humble, quiet achiever and we are so proud of him,” says NASCA Sydney Program Lead Maddi Fernando. 

Today, armed with his connection to Culture, a new-found sense of identity, and impressive leadership skills, Zac is busy making big plans for the future. 

“I want to go into an apprenticeship after school, I’m interested in trades, probably Electrician or Plumber. I want to own my own business one day.”