PULiiMA Conference celebrating First Nations languages and voices

In the heart of Australia, an extraordinary event takes place that celebrates and amplifies the voices of First Nations languages and cultures. 

PULiiMA Indigenous Languages and Technology Conference, a biennial gathering, is a beacon of connection, wisdom, and empowerment for communities across the country. 

Language custodians, educators, community members, and linguists from diverse backgrounds come together to exchange knowledge, insights, and experiences. 

Natalie Davey has Bunuba, Scottish, Walmajarrai and Cornish heritage and works in the Baya Gawiy Early Childhood Centre in Fitzroy Crossing. She develops educational resources and works on the language database for the five languages spoken on Bunuba Country.

When asked what she valued about PULiiMA, ‘Connection!’ She exclaimed, ‘the conference was amazing, it’s one of those times where you don’t feel like you’re alone in language learning, language programs, all of the different levels where you are in the community. With revitalisation or maintaining or strengthening, it’s a fantastic opportunity to feel connected and to upskill and share the different ways we are doing work.’

One of the most profound impacts of PULiiMA is its role in language preservation and revitalisation. Indigenous languages are intricately woven into the fabric of cultural identity, and their survival is crucial for preserving heritage. 

Natalie worked as a Ranger, so saw first-hand the connection between Country and Language.

‘Country has to be spoken in its own language, you can’t look after Country in another language. Language is the foundation for looking after Country and everything else.’

The conference provides a platform for attendees to share successful language revitalisation strategies, collaborate on resources, and learn from one another's challenges and triumphs. The result is a powerful synergy that empowers communities to safeguard their languages for generations to come.

 ‘It gives you energy, stronger connections, information, it’ amazing, everyone feels like its hard work – but we’re doing it the right way, we’re doing it right for us,’ said Natalie.

The conference also creates a sense of unity among attendees, forging connections and friendships. Beyond the event, this unity fuels broader Indigenous cultural resurgence and collaboration efforts. 

Attendees experience a deep sense of belonging as they connect with others who share similar experiences and aspirations.

‘You fill up, it’s great. It’s a wonderful sense of community,’ Natalie smiled.

PULiiMA illuminates the path toward a future where languages and cultures thrive, echoing with the collective wisdom of Australia's First Nations people.