Kaya, I’m Rhys,

a cultural de-sensitivity expert.

Here’s what I mean

Today, many consider anything ‘cultural awareness’ related to be generalised, tokenistic, guilt fuelled and nothing more than a tick a ‘diversity and inclusion’ box necessity.

Working in Aboriginal education now for 14+ years I have learned that most have fear working in these spaces - fear of saying the wrong thing, fear of offending, fear of connecting.

As someone who has a passion for connecting, I facilitate spaces where there are no ‘stupid questions’. I invite genuine and robust conversations through a series of workshops, training and consultation services.

To shed some of these fears, we need to learn to de-sensitise our already too sensitive nature.

I am committed to introducing Aboriginal culture as an extension of Australian culture, not a seperate entity to it. Understanding Aboriginal culture doesn’t have to be done through a place of shame or guilt, or because if we don’t we are considered bad people - but because I believe if we remove the invisible eggshells constantly around us, we can come to a common realisation that culturally, we aren’t all that different, and starting with genuine intentions is only half of the excitement.

Whos my mob

Yamatji from hot dry places

Budimia / Yamatji / Noongar Australian

If you’ve ever seen Aboriginal peoples meet up for the first time, there’s one question which, when broken down, simply translates to “how do I connect with you?” This question is Who’s your mob?

Irene and Doc Paddick (Nana and Grandad)

Lorraine Jones (nee Pearse), mum and me

Richie and Annemarie Paddick (mum and dad)

What I do

I teach things and I draw things.

If it’s not aligned with fun, excitement and love - it’s not for me.

Acknowledge This!

Acknowledge This! teaches all Australians how to give an authentic Acknowledgment of Country. We run this workshop as a conversation helping people feel connected to each other, culture and Country. This program has been delivered to over 10,000 Australians and we love continuing the conversation. Learn more at www.acknowledgethis.com.au

Our Story of Reconciliation

Our Story of Reconciliation is a keynote that defines reconciliation and explores how we can get excited and authentically participate in the journey.

Email hello@acknowledgethis.com.au to find out more.

Advisor

As someone who is invested in Indigenous Australian cultures, I am passionate about activating spaces that are aligned with including and investing time in our common cultures. I’ve worked with many people, businesses and organisations offering my thoughts and advice in implementing Reconciliation Action Plans - with the desire to connect Australians with Indigenous culture, beyond just a ‘tick box’ approach, my hope is to introduce Indigenous cultures through the framework of excitement, value, genuine interest and love, as opposed to the all-so-common place of shame, guilt, and “because I think we have to”.

Email hello@acknowledgethis.com.au to find out more.