Bumbira Arts and Culture Program is funded through NIAA and works with the local Aboriginal community to improve social and emotional wellbeing through art, culture, somatic therapies, connection to community and cultural identity. Aboriginal women of all ages are invited to join their programs which run on a weekly basis during school terms.
Through Bumbira’s programs, participants gain cultural knowledge and skills in traditional and contemporary art making and cultural practices, as well as working towards improved social and emotional wellness and healing in a nurturing, positive and safe environment.
Youth most often engage with the program through school group programs focusing on meditation, breathwork and other somatic therapies.
Bumbira also run programs within schools and preschools by invitation.
"When I leave here, it’s like weights lifted off my shoulders from all the meditation. It helps me a lot. It does. It makes me feel good."
"When I leave here, I feel taller, I think."
“When we did that first meditation and I had that emotional release… I was scared. It was good. Definitely good, but I just didn’t know, because I’ve never felt that emotion before. I’ve never ever done that before. Never ever sat and done what we did. I’ve never had that done…"
Regular programs include:
Bumbira's programs are delivered by a qualified somatic therapist specialising in meditation, yoga and movement therapies, together with a hairdresser, beautician and practising artist, offering participants a diverse range of healing and creative experiences.
Bumbira is delivered by a dedicated team of Aboriginal women whose lived experience and professional skill sit at the heart of every program.
Charlie brings over 27 years of experience in the hair industry, alongside expertise in yoga, meditation, nervous system regulation, and Healing Hair. She guides participants through Yinarr Yoga, Gunimaa Healing, mindfulness practice, and culturally grounded healing experiences, combining professional knowledge with holistic approaches to wellbeing. Charissa is our Beauty Therapy and Wellbeing facilitator, offering pampering and self-care sessions - including facials, massage, and beauty therapy - that restore confidence, promote relaxation, and support holistic wellbeing. Tess is a professional artist who uses creativity and storytelling to support healing and connection to culture.
Together, this all-Aboriginal team combines cultural knowledge, therapeutic skill and genuine care, wrapped around every woman who walks through Bumbira's doors.
Bumbira supports more than 100 Aboriginal women every six months, with many participants attending multiple programs, workshops and special events each week. Through their involvement, women build practical tools for emotional regulation, strengthen connections to culture and community, and form meaningful relationships with other women who share similar lived experiences.
Beyond the weekly programs, women can access wellness retreats, cultural immersions and one-on-one support including practical help like birth certificate applications that address real barriers in their lives. Participants consistently describe feeling lighter, more confident, and more connected to who they are. For many, Bumbira becomes a turning point: a safe, culturally grounded space where healing, identity and community come together, supporting women to move forward in their own lives with strength and self-determination.
Our team is here to answer questions, take referrals, and help you find the right program.
