Rhonda Radley and Amy Davies were invited to present at the two day conference with more than 500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women present.

The conference celebrated the invaluable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have made – and continue to make – to communities, families, and to our country.

As pillars in society, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women play an active and significant role at community, local, state and national levels.

Ms Radley said she was proud she was able to present in front of so many inspiring women with Amy.

“The conference was such an amazing experience where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women came together to share their experiences and wisdom with others,” Ms Radley said.

“It was also about celebrating the achievements of Aboriginal women working at a local level in their communities as well as the national trailblazers in the public sphere.

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“Amy and myself had the opportunity to present a session on Sharing Circles which is a safe place where women can come together and share their experiences and struggles without fear of judgment.

“This was a powerful experience with many sharing their personal and highly emotional journey with us.”

She said the conference itself was also a chance to connect with women all over the country.

“As it is a national conference we had women come from all over the country and it was fantastic to be able to connect with women on a deeper level,” she said.

“The theme for NAIDOC Week 2018 was Because of Her, We Can, and it was a wonderful way of honouring our ancestors who were trailblazers over the generations.”

Miss Davies also said she was inspired by the incredible guest speakers as well as the opportunity to meet women from all over the country.

“Most of the speakers at the conference left you speechless because of their incredible stories,” Miss Davies said.

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“It was an emotional couple of days and I really felt bonded with a lot of the women who shared during our Sharing Circle.

“I think the conference was also a fantastic way for women to come together and give recognition to all the women who have come before us; not just our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander political leaders but leaders in all our local communities who fight for culture, language and heritage.”

She said connecting with people was a massive part of the conference.

“I learnt a lot about culture from the conference and I was really interested in the practice of birthing on country and the benefits for the family,” she said.

“Aboriginal health is something I am passionate about and it was great to hear different experiences.”