Youth Empowerment Project (UWA) and international SEWB research
Presentation Type
Presentation
Start Date
28-5-2026 10:00 AM
Description
This presentation introduces the Youth Empowerment Project, led by Professor Pat Dudgeon at the University of Western Australia, which focuses on strengthening the social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people. The project seeks to centre Aboriginal youth voices in defining and shaping wellbeing. The research is guided by four key aims: to understand expressions and lived experiences of SEWB from the perspectives of Aboriginal youth; to identify the barriers and enablers influencing their wellbeing; to co-design and pilot community-based SEWB programs; and to build research capacity among youth co-researchers. Aligned with the Research Week theme of “Researching for Impactful Change,” this presentation will highlight the importance of meaningful community consultation and sustained partnerships in designing and implementing research. Although only in the early stages of the project, the presentation will provide insights into anticipated project outcomes, including the development of locally relevant SEWB programs, and the training and empowerment of youth as co-researchers. The presentation will also explore the application of Aboriginal Participatory Action Research methodologies and the critical role of Indigenous data sovereignty in ensuring ethical, respectful, and self-determined research practices. Together, these elements demonstrate how culturally grounded, collaborative research can contribute to transformative change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Recommended Citation
Cox, Abby-Rose and Derry, Kate, "Youth Empowerment Project (UWA) and international SEWB research" (2026). Nulungu Research Week. 3.
https://researchonline.nd.edu.au/nulungu_researchweek/2026/schedule/3
Youth Empowerment Project (UWA) and international SEWB research
https://notredame-au.zoom.us/j/81296863449
Passcode: 507764
This presentation introduces the Youth Empowerment Project, led by Professor Pat Dudgeon at the University of Western Australia, which focuses on strengthening the social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people. The project seeks to centre Aboriginal youth voices in defining and shaping wellbeing. The research is guided by four key aims: to understand expressions and lived experiences of SEWB from the perspectives of Aboriginal youth; to identify the barriers and enablers influencing their wellbeing; to co-design and pilot community-based SEWB programs; and to build research capacity among youth co-researchers. Aligned with the Research Week theme of “Researching for Impactful Change,” this presentation will highlight the importance of meaningful community consultation and sustained partnerships in designing and implementing research. Although only in the early stages of the project, the presentation will provide insights into anticipated project outcomes, including the development of locally relevant SEWB programs, and the training and empowerment of youth as co-researchers. The presentation will also explore the application of Aboriginal Participatory Action Research methodologies and the critical role of Indigenous data sovereignty in ensuring ethical, respectful, and self-determined research practices. Together, these elements demonstrate how culturally grounded, collaborative research can contribute to transformative change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Comments
Session Facilitator: Professor Stephen Muecke