Our Story
Mission & Vision
To weave a future where cultural safety and traditional wisdom are at the heart of every workplace.
We aspire to be the leading pathway for cultural immersion, empowering organisations to embrace Aboriginal knowledge through workshops and training, ensuring that respect and understanding are woven into every professional interaction.
New Beginnings
Aunty Serena and Rach founded this business with a shared vision. Grounded in a strong kinship bond, and through many consultations and workshops, we recognised a clear need on Ngunnawal Country for a more robust and culturally safe business that could offer cultural immersion from our perspective. Yaraay Djara is a new business, but do not let that fool you — we both bring extensive cultural knowledge and experience. With Rach as the owner, and Aunty Serena as the consulting Elder we will ensure protocols are followed and your experience is genuine, educational and worthwhile.
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Yaraay in Gamilaraay means 'Sun'. Djara in Ngunnawal means 'Stars'.
The Heart of Our Practice
Respect
Deep, contemplative listening. We approach every workshop and training session with the intention to truly hear and understand the wisdom passed down through generations.
Ancestral Knowledge
Our pathways are 100% Aboriginal owned and operated. We are dedicated to the preservation and respectful sharing of ancient weaving techniques and cultural competency.
Cultural Safety
Fostering environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people feel respected and safe. We bridge the gap between tradition and modern workplace values.
The Hands Behind Our Story
Aunty Serena Williams Palm
Ngunnawal Elder
Rach Hopkins
Founding Director/Owner
Aunty Serena Palm
Founder and Elder
Aunty Serena Palm is a dedicated Ngunnawal Elder with a lifetime of experience in cultural storytelling, traditional weaving, and community leadership. Her vision for Yaraay Djara is rooted in the preservation of ancestral knowledge and the empowerment of Aboriginal people through cultural safety and visibility. Together with Rach, she has worked tirelessly to bring her deep spiritual connection and practical wisdom to the curriculum to ensure that all participants walk away with a profound respect for the land and its history.
Rach Hopkins
Founding Director
Rach is a proud Gamilaroi woman with strong kinship ties to Ngunnawal Country and brings deep experience in cultural safety, community engagement and leadership. She served 12.5 years in the Royal Australian Air Force as a Personnel Capability Specialist and Indigenous Liaison Officer. Her vision for Yaraay Djara comes from her passion for cultural safety in the workplace, and for sharing culture through education and respect.