Ngantanwar

Ngantanwar,

This means welcome in the Dhauwurd Wurrung language of the Gunditjmara people of South West Victoria.  Languages are the cornerstones of culture and are extremely significant in shaping how an individual and collective sees the world.   Sadly, in Victoria a lot of our languages are classified as extinct however there are remnants of them alive today and a generation of young Aboriginal people reconnecting with their culture to rebuild ancients’ ways of being and community.

I am a first nations woman; I am of mixed race and am extremely proud and connected to all of my heritage, Ancestors and family.   Culture is a big part of what makes me strong and being a descendant of one of the oldest living cultures gives me knowledge’s and ways of thinking that has kept our people well for up to 80,000 years.  Culture, family and community give me purpose and connection which I strongly believe are two key elements to our wellness and wellbeing.

My name is Jacara and  I spend a lot of time reflecting on my journey, the directions I am heading and the many parts that make up who I am and the communities and spaces that I am a part of.  From this reflection came the premise for Jaquara Jean.  I wanted to create a safe space for sharing, where the ‘other ‘can be explored with out fear, with love and curiosity.  Where I can share my insights into health and wellbeing from a hybrid perspective of Ancient Indigenous wisdoms and culture as well as Western Psychological ways of thinking.    

The three values that we embody at Jaquara Jean are Compassion, Strength and Education.  Compassion for oneself and for our fellow humans, Strength through compassion and kindness to  live fearlessly and for others and Education to all those who come with an open mind and heart with the willingness to embrace these ideas of being and to dispel the fear of the unknown.

I hope you come with me to explore a contemporary world through these values and ideas in order to create healthier selves and communities.

Big Love

Jacara x

Muthi Muthi/ Gunditjmara