A music video made by Northam's Indigenous youth, touching on topics of racism and substance abuse, has been launched to the public at an official screening.
As part of a six-week program run by Avon Community Services (ACS), a group of Indigenous young people went through the creative process of writing lyrics and staring in a hip-hop music video.
At the video launch last week, Avon Community Services operations manager Darren Warland commended the youth for their contribution to the project, which he said could shape the way the community perceived them.
"We've been through a bit of a journey here at ACS - we have a passion for collaborating with all parts of community and giving these young people a voice," he said.
"It takes a lot of courage for these guys to not only get dressed up in traditional paint but to record and have a video spread all over Facebook.
"The courage, commitment and the leadership that these guys is displaying is awesome - I, for one, am very proud to be part of this group."
The song, titled 'Our Way' included the young people's views on racism, family substance abuse, the justice system and the need for equality and pride in culture.
The chorus included the lines 'love, respect, honesty, freedom, courage, restraint - that's how we beat them. Confidence, commitment, discipline, challenge, honor the lands - that's how we stay balanced'.
These are their words and their opportunity to have a safe platform to tell their story.
- Avon Community Services social worker Tricia Chrimes
Avon Community Services social worker Tricia Chrimes said it was important for the youth to be acknowledged by the community.
"I want you to listen to the words that the kids are relaying to us," she said.
"These are their words and their opportunity to have a safe platform to tell their story. As a community we need to hear what is bring said by these guys.
"For me and Avon Community Services it give us a window of opportunity to start working together alongside the youth and community."
Mr Warland said the successful hip-hop program, in collaboration with REACH1 TEACH1, continued ACS' commitment to culture.
"Part of our passion is connection to culture and community and it all started with local elder Pat Davis running a Noongar language program," he said.
"It was our most highly attended program and that lead us into cultural dancing"
The male Indigenous dance group, Avon a Dance Mob, performed at the opening alongside Indigenous mentors.
To view the music video visit the Avon Community Services Facebook page.
