Walking Proud at WIPCE 2025: reflections from NIKERI social work students
Attending the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE) 2025 was more than just a trip. It was a life-changing moment shared with thousands of Indigenous peoples from around the world.
For Bianca Williams and Jacynta Savo, two Deakin University students studying through the NIKERI Institute, WIPCE offered connection, clarity and a deep sense of belonging.
It was vibrant, empowering and it felt like home. – Bianca
A celebration of identity and community
Bianca – a Wiradjuri and Gomeroi woman, mum of three and grandmother of four, and a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Consultant in Aboriginal mental health – describes WIPCE as an experience she’ll carry with her for life.
‘It was deeply moving. Being surrounded by colour, culture and pride. Everyone there understood the systemic challenges we push through every day as Indigenous people, but they also see our brilliance. It’s validating.’
For Bianca, being part of the global Indigenous community that her father helped to found, brought a new kind of energy and confidence.
‘My dad, Professor Bob Morgan AO was the Inaugural Chair of the WIPCE council for almost a decade. He was instrumental in its founding and has been a champion in Aboriginal Education for over 40 years. I have strong Aboriginal parents who are my guiding light. I deferred my studies in 2020 after I lost my mum, but being part of something she loved has helped me to push through.’
Finding strength in shared stories
Bianca reflects on the way conversations flowed. Where stories of resistance, humour and hope were shared openly.
There’s something powerful and healing about standing in a space where your story mirrors someone else’s. It reminds you that we’re connected and strong.
WIPCE didn’t affirm Bianca’s identity. She knows who she is and she’s proud of it. However, it did reaffirm her purpose as a future social worker, committed to community-led practice and Indigenous empowerment.
First time overseas and moments of growth
Seeing the world has grounded me in who I am. – Jacynta
For Jacynta – a Gooreng Gooreng and Yidinji woman, mum of five, full-time worker in remote Indigenous communities throughout Cape York and social work student – WIPCE was full of firsts.
‘Attending WIPCE was my first time overseas. It was a chance to listen, learn and grow. I felt so supported.’
Balancing study, work and motherhood
Jacynta credits Deakin and NIKERI’s flexible study model for making moments like this possible.
‘Studying through NIKERI has allowed me to keep working in my community and be present for my kids. Studying social work has helped me sharpen how I challenge racist systems and discourses in my work, with more confidence and grounding.’
She wants other mothers and mature-age students to know that education and leadership is still within reach.
‘Being a mum or returning to study later in life doesn’t limit you; it empowers you. My five children are my motivation to go further. I am invested in seeing change in my community and being part of driving that change.’
Returning home with renewed purpose
The experience of travelling, learning and connecting reshaped the way Jacynta views her role back home.
‘Seeing the world gave me a new sense of pride in the work I do. I made friendships that I will hold dear for the rest of my life. I really put myself out there and it was so rewarding. I feel more connected, more grounded and more determined to create change in my community.’
Walking forward together
For Bianca and Jacynta, WIPCE wasn’t just a conference; it was a cultural homecoming, a reminder of collective strength and an affirmation of their journeys as Indigenous women, learners and leaders. Their reflections echo a shared truth that resonated throughout WIPCE 2025: Indigenous excellence is within us and it continues to grow when we learn, connect and walk forward, together.
Learn more about the NIKERI Institute on the Deakin website.