HEALING THROUGH HORSES: YAWARDANI JAN-GA PROGRAM EMPOWERS ABORIGINAL YOUTH

Professor Juli Coffin

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BY ASAD KHAN

Professor Juli Coffin, an Indigenous academic and founder of the Yawardani Jan-ga Equine Assisted Learning program, discusses the importance of her recent recognition and the innovative approaches to support Aboriginal youth's mental health and emotional well-being.

In a recent interview with Ngaarda Media, Professor Coffin shared her insights on the significance of her recognition for the Yawardani Jan-ga Equine Assisted Learning Program

This initiative focuses on using horses to foster mental health and emotional healing among Aboriginal youth.

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She said the award serves as a crucial acknowledgment of the effectiveness of her program.

"It's a great acknowledgment that what we're doing is working,"

Professor Coffin said the importance of shifting the narrative surrounding Aboriginal youth, highlighting their strengths and potential rather than focusing solely on trauma.

"We need to change the discourse to one of hope and capacity," she said.

The Yawardani Jan-ga program was inspired by Professor Coffin's personal journey and her desire to see Aboriginal youth reach their full potential.

"I kept thinking about what is really missing from young people's lives,"

Her experiences with horses and supportive family networks led her to envision a program that could replicate those positive influences for younger generations.

Hand print with aboriginal flag colours on a horse at the program

Professor Coffin identified several significant challenges faced by young Aboriginal individuals today, including normal developmental issues compounded by societal factors.

"Relationships are a key piece," she noted, pointing to the impacts of racism and the importance of understanding healthy relationships.

She emphasized the need for empowering young people rather than dictating solutions to their problems, fostering an environment where they feel seen and valued.

Professor Juli Coffin's work through the Yawardani Jan-ga program exemplifies a culturally secure approach to addressing mental health challenges faced by Aboriginal youth. By leveraging the healing power of horses, Coffin aims to empower young people to navigate their complex realities with confidence and resilience.

Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Lead Journalist, Asad Khan speak with Professor Juli Coffin: