NIKERI draws affirmation from World Indigenous Peoples Conference

Deakin University’s National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research and Innovation (NIKERI) Institute’s presence at the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE) 2025 marked a defining moment in its chapter of shaping a future where Indigenous knowledges, culturally appropriate education and community lead the way. 

As thousands of Indigenous educators, students and leaders gathered in Aotearoa (New Zealand), NIKERI’s delegation comprising academic staff, leaders and students stood proudly among them, learning, sharing and imagining what comes next. Their attendance reflected not only Deakin’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous self-determination and success, but also the Institute’s vision for a future strengthened by hope, healing and educational transformation. 

A global gathering of Indigenous Knowledges

WIPCE 2025 brought together Indigenous peoples from across the world to share research, cultural knowledges and stories of resilience. For NIKERI professional staff and students, the experience was both grounding and aspirational; a powerful reminder that Indigenous excellence is global, interconnected and thriving. 

Director of NIKERI, Professor Karinda Burns, reflected on the significance of the delegation’s involvement, 

‘Our collective attendance at WIPCE reinforced what we at NIKERI have always known; that Indigenous communities hold the solutions.  

The innovation and the leadership needed to shape the future of education comes from us. Being there with our students and staff was deeply affirming.  

It reminds us that our work is not only relevant, but essential.’ 

Students stepping up toward lofty goals

Two of NIKERI social work students, Bianca Williams and Jacynta Savo, attended WIPCE as emerging leaders in their fields. Their reflections highlight the transformative power of culturally appropriate, flexible education. 

Bianca Williams, a Wiradjuri and Gomeroi woman, mum of three and grandmother of four, who works as a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Consultant in Aboriginal Mental Health, described WIPCE as an emotional awakening, 

‘Attending this conference was life changing. Being surrounded by vibrant cultural expression and people who understand not only the challenges we face, but the opportunities that lie ahead for us because of our brilliance…was incredibly validating. It was a celebration. 

I have strong Aboriginal parents who are leaders in Aboriginal education and Aboriginal health. I am so proud of them both, they’re guiding my footsteps. I deferred my studies in 2020 after I lost my mother, but this experience, being part of something championed, has helped me to push through.’ 

For Jacynta Savo, a Gooreng Gooreng and Yidinji woman, mother of five, full-time volunteer worker in a community not-for profit and Deakin NIKERI student, the experience carried an extra layer of meaning – it was her first time travelling overseas. 

‘Being in Aotearoa for WIPCE was a moment I’ll never forget. It helped me grow personally and professionally. It reminded me why this work matters. Seeing the world has grounded me more deeply in my purpose and in my community.” 

The opportunity reinforced Jacynta’s belief that education can transform futures, 

‘Being a mother and studying doesn’t limit you. It gives you strength. My children are my motivation to keep going, to keep challenging the systems that need to change and to be part of driving that change.’ 

Leadership grounded in culture and community

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous, Professor Mark Rose, emphasised the importance of Deakin’s presence at the global gathering, 

‘WIPCE is where Indigenous-centred and led education is benchmarked. Our involvement demonstrates the University’s commitment to walking alongside community in shaping a culturally grounded future for education. Our students and staff represented us with pride and vision for the future.’ 

WIPCE also provided staff the opportunity to share Deakin NIKERI’s academic and cultural leadership. Multiple Deakin NIKERI academics presented throughout the week, contributing to global conversations on Indigenous pedagogies, decolonising education, and community-led learning models. 

Honouring, uplifting the path ahead

One message was echoed clearly throughout the conference, WIPCE is a fountain from which imagining new possibilities springs, for Indigenous Peoples and for their futures. 

For Deakin NIKERI, the experience has reaffirmed a long-held truth – Indigenous Peoples carry the solutions needed to build strong, self-determined, culturally anchored educational systems. 

Professor Burns expressed her pride in what comes next. 

‘Our students return with renewed purpose. Our academics return with strengthened connections. And our Institute returns with even more determination to create pathways that honour culture, uplift community and build futures grounded in Indigenous excellence.’ 

As Deakin marks its 50-year history, NIKERI’s vision is clearer than ever; to continue being a leader in the delivery of culturally-informed, flexible education. Where Indigenous knowledges are celebrated as central to educational success. WIPCE 2025 has strengthened that vision, reaffirming to the Institute that its greatest strength lies in its community, its culture and its unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for future Indigenous leaders.