Informit launched its Indigenous Scholars You Should Know video interview series to a packed house at RMIT’s Kaleide Theatre in Naarm (Melbourne).
Attendees gathered to celebrate Indigenous-led research, through the launch of a new series that seeks to amplify the voices and perspectives of Indigenous scholars who are making an impact in diverse fields.
Professor Aunty Diane Kerr opened the evening with a heartfelt Welcome to Country. A compelling screening of interview highlights was then unveiled, and Indigenous scholars shared insights into the innovative methodologies and ideas shaping their important research projects.
The highlight of the evening was the warm, spirited and engaging on-stage panel discussion, between chair Aunty Diane Kerr and featured Indigenous scholars: Blayne Welsh, Dr. Jodi Edwards, Dr. Paola Balla, and Clint Hansen, who streamed in remotely from Iman Country.
Throughout the panel, the scholars thoughtfully discussed their experiences within the Academy, sharing the structural challenges of navigating academia, championing the role of Indigenous student centres within universities, and emphasising the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led scholarly projects.
The audience was left inspired by the scholars’ vision for an inclusive future, where Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are platformed, respected and embraced.
‘Indigenous-led research is changing the game: decolonising and Indigenising the research space and having impacts in communities, as well as on the national story,’ Director of Informit, Emma Juniper said.
‘This series forms part of our ongoing commitment to integrating First Peoples’ perspectives and visibility into Informit’s platform.’
The Indigenous Scholars You Should Know series aims to amplify exciting developments underway in Indigenous-led research, with new interviews to be added regularly.
‘RMIT Training is proud to support this initiative to elevate Indigenous-led research. As the series continues to unfold, it promises to be a journey of discovery for all of us, and an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable scholars,’ RMIT Training CEO, Jake Heinrich said.
