Elders urge youth to keep culture alive

Elders deliver a powerful message for First Nations youth as part of 30th anniversary celebrations of South Australia's largest Aboriginal aged care provider.

Published: 12 August 2025
  • sa
  • 12 August 2025
  • National Indigenous Times

Ngarrindjeri Elder, Aunty Maxine Risk, urged the next generation, "My passion is to see the next generation have a go at it… We need somebody to stand up and be a voice for us."

Wirangu/Kokatha Elder, Aunty Cheryl Saunders, said her "dream for the youth today is that you stand tall in your culture, learn your language, know you family connectedness".

Warlpiri/Kaytej/Anmatyerre/Alyawarre Elder, Aunty Daisybelle Foster, said "Know who you are and get a good education; you'll be set up for life."

Ngarrindjeri Elder Mulla Sumner had a message for the next generations. "Don't let our culture die out, don't let our language die out – keep it going."

The four Elders are among more than 500 in South Australia cared for by Aboriginal Community Services (ACS), established 30 years ago on July 28.