Yumi Olgeta Cultural Exchange Quilt Project: Crafting a more inclusive democracy
Event description
Embark on an Exciting Journey with Yumi Olgeta: Crafting a More Inclusive Democracy!
Join us for an inspiring and inclusive journey with the Yumi Olgeta Cultural Quilt Making Workshop, supported by the Australian South Sea Islander community!
This exciting project is funded by the City of Sydney Council Creative Grants Program and the Vanuatu Government.
Our face-to-face workshops are proudly presented by Australian South Sea Islanders (Port Jackson) and the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney campus.
We invite you to participate, whether you're a seasoned embroiderer or like weaver, or just a curious beginner. Let's come together, learn, and share stories and your creativity.
Under the expert guidance of talented craftivist instructors, you’ll have the opportunity to create a beautiful quilt that reflects our shared stories and history, particularly the impactful era of Blackbirding that shaped the sugar and pastoral industries. Engage in meaningful conversations with individuals who have lived experiences from this crucial chapter in our past.
This workshop is more than just crafting; it’s a vibrant tapestry of cultures, connections, and community spirit. Come be part of an extraordinary experience that celebrates diversity and fosters understanding, culminating in a stunning quilt that will be showcased in a prominent Sydney venue. Let’s unite, share our skills, and craft a piece of art that tells a powerful story together!
Postage: We will contact you for your postal address via email to have your craftivist sewing kit mailed out for the workshops.
Workshop 1: ZOOM Introduction, meet the team ;)
Date/Day: 19th October 2025, a Sunday afternoon
Venue: Log on from a comfortable location
This workshop is a great introduction to get you sewing in preparation for the face-to-face workshops.
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS
His Excellency Mr Samson Vilvil Fare is the Vanuatu High Commissioner to Australia. An astute diplomat in geopolitics, his career has focused on areas such as human rights, climate change, and sustainable development. With a background in international relations and a commitment to addressing pressing global issues, His Excellency plays a crucial role in enhancing cooperation and support for Australian South Sea Islanders and the Pacific region.
Ryan Butta is a writer of historical non-fiction whose work uncovers the hidden and forgotten stories of Australia’s past. His debut, The Ballad of Abdul Wade, traced the untold history of Afghan cameleers in the 1800s and was recognised by the South Australian Literary Awards, the Indie Book Awards, and the Queensland Writers Centre’s Adaptable program. His latest book, The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli, explores the remarkable life of Harry Freame Japanese Australian adventurer, Anzac, orchardist, and spy. Through his writing, Ryan seeks to dismantle national myths and re-examine the complex legacies that shaped modern Australia.
MEET YOUR CRAFTIVISTS
Stitching for Change: Helen Fraser Leads Yumi Olgeta in Crafting a More Inclusive Democracy Through Art and Awareness!
More about Artist Helen Fraser
Celebrating Kinship Through Craft: Josephine Fred& the Ni-Vanuatu Women’s HandiKraft Markets Unite Tradition and Culture in the Yumi Olgeta Workshops!
Weaving Heritage: Aunty Karleen Green Inspires Through Aboriginal Traditional Weaving Workshops, Preserving Culture and Knowledge Across Generations!
Empowering Change: Waskam Emelda Davis, Trailblazing Founder of Australian South Sea Islanders (Port Jackson), Champions Community Voices and Social Justice!
Read bios via the link below and ....
Say hello to your national board for ....
AUSTRALIAN SOUTH SEA ISLANDERS
Workshop 2: FACE-TO-FACE
Date/Day: 29th November 2025, Saturday / All Day
Venue: Chau Chak Wing Museum, USYD,
close to the bus stop / Central Station
Sessions are 2 hours each.
Session A: 10:30 am
Session B: 1:30 pm
Location (map) - Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney, University Place, directly across from the Great Hall and Quadrangle lawns. Click here for more directions.
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Workshop 3: FACE-TO-FACE
Date/Day: 14th March 2026, Saturday / Afternoon
Venue: (To be confirmed) Chau Chak Wing Museum, USYD,
Location (map) - Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney, University Place, directly across from the Great Hall and Quadrangle lawns. Click here for more directions.
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Workshop 4: ZOOM Introduction, wrapping up next steps ;)
Date/Day: 21st March 2026, a Sunday / Afternoon
Venue: Log on from a comfortable location
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Why You Should Join Us:
"Be a part of something great that leaves your mark on the world in a powerful statement! We can't change the past, but we can unite as one into the future"
- Craft Connections: Engage in hands-on embroidery/quilting sessions led by expert instructors, learn about Ni Vanuatu traditional pandanus and Aboriginal weaving techniques, with an option to share your own skills with others.
- Explore Our History: Dive into the shared narrative of Blackbirding, enriched by the voices of those who lived through this pivotal era that shaped the sugar industry in Australia.
- Build Community: Experience the joy of collaboration as you meet new friends and neighbours, all united by a common goal of storytelling and artistry.
- Celebrate Diversity: This project is a melting pot of cultures, including Australian South Sea Islander, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Indian, Chinese, Ni Vanuatu, and Pacific and broader communities, all coming together in a spirit of inclusivity and respect.
- Gain Insight: Participate in open dialogues that honour the lived experiences of those affected by forced migration, fostering understanding and healing within our community.
- Breaking Bread Together: Sharing light refreshments during our workshops is more than just a meal; it’s a ritual of connection that fosters relationships that extend beyond the quilting project.
- Musical Moments: Immerse yourself in the rhythm of our community as local artists serenade us with their songs. The melodies will enhance our shared meals, creating an atmosphere that uplifts our spirits and strengthens our bonds.
Download free instruction booklet:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bDAg5_hs84j65HXPwluPGGAZxQS9W71I/view?usp=sharing
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
