The Jilya World Suicide Prevention Day Gala Dinner 2022

On World Suicide Prevention Day, 10 September 2022, The Westerman Jilya Institute for Indigenous Mental Health (“Jilya”) will hold a Fundraising Gala Dinner to address the shocking rates of Indigenous child suicide in Australia which are among the world’s highest. The heart of Jilya is the Dr Tracy Westerman Indigenous Psychology Scholarship Program, commenced by Dr Westerman AM, in response to the voices of bereaved Indigenous parents and communities who were crying out for help and not able to access it.

Dr Westerman, a former Australian of the Year (WA), has long been considered a world leader in Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention. It is fair to say that the scholarship and Jilya initiatives have captured the hearts and minds of Australia. Jilya’s mission is to #BuildAnArmy of Indigenous psychologists and to see them working amongst our highest-risk Indigenous communities. To date, the program is supporting and mentoring 26 Indigenous psychology students. We plan to increase this number as a result of the funds raised at this year’s Gala.

“Jilya” means “my child” in Nyamal: for this is about our children. It reflects the underlying vision of Jilya – to provide a world in which our most vulnerable Indigenous children can have at the very least, an equal opportunity to thrive. The concert brings people together on this issue. Black, white; all Australians together, for these are Australia’s children. Together we can show that these lives matter and they matter to all Australians equally. All funds raised will go directly to the Jilya Institute, to support the advancement and mentoring of future Indigenous psychologists into Australia’s highest-risk communities and to further their vital suicide prevention work.

Housed in the majestic Winthrop Hall at UWA, The Jilya Gala will feature a star-studded lineup of artists, performing in an intimate, engaging setting.

DIDIRRI

In a world craving transparency, Didirri captivates his peers with his magnetic charisma and honest approach to songwriting. Growing up in the coastal Australian countryside town of Warrnambool, Didirri began writing songs as a challenge to himself to be honest. His candid storytelling comes from wanting to face the truth, however beautiful or confronting. With over 50 million Spotify streams, Didirri’s magnetic music inspires a connection to think and feel, be open to good, the fun, a surprise, the grey, raw or dark, always gently inspiring hope against all of life’s intricacies.

JESS HITCHCOCK

Award-winning singer Jess Hitchcock is an Indigenous performer, composer and singer-songwriter with family origins from Saibai in the Torres Straits and Papua New Guinea. For the last 10 years, Jess has worked as a teacher, composer and artist with Australia’s Indigenous opera company Short Black Opera. Jess was also the 2019 recipient of the Smuggler of Light, Indigenous Music and Media Award presented at the APRA Professional Development awards. Don’t miss out on an evening with one of Australia’s most mesmerising vocalists.

CARLA GENEVE

7 x WAM Awards, 5 x WAM Song of the Year, WA Live Voice of the Year, Carla Geneve is one of WA’s most loved and most decorated singer-songwriters. Backed by a captivating show and unique brand of brutally honest lyricism, Geneve established herself as one of Australia’s most notable up-and-coming artists. Originally hailing from Albany, Carla’s voice is matched only by the depth of her songwriting, with a stunning maturity well beyond her years.

BOOX KID

A Proud Noongar man of the Wardandi Bibbulmun nation, Boox Kid is a beat creator, delivering unheard melodies, harmonies, and unique instrumentation, with a live show to complement. A versatile cross-genre artist, Boox Kid took to the stage in October 2021 performing the lead role in Koolbardi Wer Wardong, written by Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse and sung in First Nation Noongar language.

TINA ALTIERI

Our MC for the evening, Tina Altieri is a TV News Presenter for the Seven Network and a sought-after MC and professional speaker. A dynamic and engaging communicator and journalist who has earned respect through her 30 years in the Australian broadcast news business.

These performances are complemented by a stunning three-course meal, with prestige wines and craft beer all-inclusive.

The Jilya Gala will also announce the 2023 scholarship recipients!

We know their stories will inspire you all.

The Jilya Gala is about hope and optimism. Finding light in the darkness.

Join us for an unforgettable night.

Sponsorship packages are selling fast! Contact us at coo@thejilyainstitute.com.au for more information on how your organisation can join the Jilya family through sponsorship of the Gala.