JORDAN HAYWOOD KEEPS CULTURE FRONT AND CENTRE AT JAMBA NYINAYI

Jordan Haywood, a Minang/Goreng and Mardu man, spoke at this year's Jamba Nyinayi festival, reflecting on what's changed and what's stayed strong since last year's festival.

Originally from Noogar Boodja, Haywood’s been in Exmouth for four years. “Doing a plumbing apprenticeship, playing footy, surfing, working. Just enjoying life out there.”

“The main stage is in a different spot now. That’s good—it mixes things up, makes people come back wondering what’s next,” he said.

Last year, Haywood danced in front of Auntie Hazel Cooyou/Walgar and Wes Mongoo as they sang in language, stepping in at the last minute to support a young woman on stage.

“She needed someone; no one else put their hand up. She asked me an hour before. Got it done.”

“There were Baiyungu dancers. That was awesome. The biggest cheer of the night. They had the crow dancing under the moonlight .” he said.

Haywood also sang during a fire stick dance. “Old fella was meant to sing, but he wanted to dance—his grandmother’s from here. He'd done it for the first time, so I sang for him. Big respect from them for that.”

He described it as a proud moment. “Seeing them dance while I’m singing—it was powerful.”

Back at camp, Haywood’s setup was getting attention. “We’ve got a 6x3 marquee, swag, couch, and a little tent for mum. Pulled in Wednesday, set up. Friday was packed. Everyone wants to camp near my camp,” he said, laughing. “But nah—they're the cool ones.”

As NAIDOC Week approaches, he kept his message simple. “Wherever you are, get out and go to something. Talk to people, hear their stories. That’s how you learn—real conversation, human to human. And show your culture. You’re still here. You’re still strong.”

You can click on the link below to listen to the full interview.