Based on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation in Sydney, the organisation’s work stems from lived experience, cultural pride, and a commitment to helping young people rediscover their identity and connect with their roots.
As founder Isaiah Dawe, a Butchulla and Garawa saltwater man, explains in this video: “After I got out of care, I wanted to make sure that all Aboriginal children in out-of-home care have a sense of belonging and connection, and positive founding relationships so they can have a better quality of life.”
Relational Practice in Action
ID Know Yourself’s mentoring program operates on a foundation of relational care, ensuring young people feel heard and understood. Each mentor brings their own lived experience and a deep commitment to fostering trust and connection with young people in care.
Mentors provide guidance on opportunities for education and employment, with a focus on harnessing young people’s energy and interests, and making sure they have a pathway ahead of them.
Through activities like group sessions and cultural camps, ID Know Yourself provides more than just mentoring; it offers a community.
Senior Mentor Gary Dixon explains: “The greatest benefit I see for the young people in our program is they get to connect with other young people who are going through what they’re going through…and they get to build friendships and make connections that will last a lifetime.”
The Journey to ID Know Yourself
Isaiah’s personal experience growing up in care, moving through 17 foster homes, and facing significant challenges inspired him to create a space where Aboriginal young people feel safe, valued, and connected. At its core, ID Know Yourself is about helping young people:
- Have a strong sense of belonging, identity and connection to culture.
- Maintain and form new and healthy peer relationships.
- Build resilience and life skills for the future, so they can safely transition out of OOHC.
- Complete their education and get a job.
- Feel safe using their voice.
