For the first time, Amgen Australia staff were able to celebrate National Reconciliation Week (NRW) with three voices from the Aboriginal community – Elder Uncle Neil Evers, Wakka Wakka woman Brooke Prentis and Pitjantjatjara Anangu woman and artist Aunty Yaritji Heffernan – who shared their moving words and stories. “The fact that you want to learn, you want to know more about how to treat Aboriginal people and do the right thing is so important,” said Uncle Neil Evers.
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) team, which is made up of representatives from across the business, updated colleagues on where Amgen Australia is at on their Reconciliation journey. They also emphasised the importance of unity, respect, understanding and the active steps Amgen Australia is taking towards Reconciliation. The event culminated with the unveiling of a spectacular artwork, ‘Kapi Tjukula’, painted by Aunty Yaritji Heffernan that she created for our Sydney headquarters. The renowned artist spoke to staff about her Country and also explained the beautiful story behind the breathtaking piece.
“It was a moving occasion and a unique chance for staff to gain new insights that will support the affiliate’s Reconciliation journey,” said Lisa Kurian, Director, Legal & Company Secretary who is also chair of the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee at Amgen Australia.
To further support the journey and close out Amgen Australia’s NRW events, a group of staff experienced a Walk on Country, led by Wakka Wakka woman and RAP partner Brooke Prentis. The purpose of the walk was to bring the landscape to life, allowing staff to gain a deeper respect for Aboriginal Traditions and Culture.
The RAP team is exploring how this unique opportunity to Walk on Country can be experienced by more Amgen Australia staff and look forward to further opportunities to engage, learn and partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.