Kinyu Dreaming & We Stand Strong: Rawa Students Share Their Stories

Rawa Community School continues to find powerful ways of blending learning, creativity, and culture across its desert campuses. In collaboration with Grand Trine Creative — recent projects in Kunawarritji and Punmu have seen students step into the spotlight, using music and storytelling to celebrate Martu identity, language, and connection to country. These initiatives not only showcase the talent and pride of young people but also reflect the school’s commitment to two-way learning—where education is deeply grounded in culture and community.

Kinyu Dreaming – Kunawarritji Campus

At the Kunawarritji campus, students worked with Grand Trine and the Wild Dingo Band to create Kinyu Dreaming. This vibrant project blends Martu stories, hip-hop, and desert reggae rock to honour kinship, hunting, skin groups, and Kinyu—the big wild dingo spirit. With students rapping in their own verses, and community voices carrying the spoken word and chorus, the song is a powerful celebration of Martu culture. Set against the sweeping desert backdrop of Well 33, Kinyu Dreaming reminds us: “This is our land. This is our home. We don’t get homesick — we’re right in our sweet home. Nyurra lampaju Kunawarritji.”

We Stand Strong – Punmu Campus

Meanwhile, at the Punmu campus, students proudly declared We Stand Strong in a music video bursting with energy and pride. Filmed on the edge of Lake Dora within Karlamilyi National Park, the project captures the spirit of resilience, unity, and Martu identity. The students’ voices and movement express not only their creativity but also their deep connection to country and community. As with all learning at Rawa, the project reinforces a two-way education—where young people are encouraged to celebrate who they are while developing the skills to step confidently into the wider world.

Both Kinyu Dreaming and We Stand Strong reflect the heart of Rawa Community School’s approach: learning that is alive with culture, language, and pride. By working alongside partners like Grand Trine Creative, students are given opportunities to express themselves in ways that strengthen their identity and inspire others. These projects show that education in the desert is not just about classrooms and books—it’s about connection, creativity, and community.