Two Worlds Festival - Melbourne

The Foundation was started in 2011 by Cam Begg and Melissa Patterson, in partnership with the communities of NE Arnhem Land. It is a leadership program to empower the next generation of young men and women from North East Arnhem Land. The vision of this Foundation is to enable them to walk confidently in ‘two worlds’. These young participants learn about the world in which we live, gaining valuable knowledge and skills that help them thrive in this ever-changing, technology driven society. They become independent and develop ‘life skills’ that enable them to live in both worlds. They will be the role models for their community in the future.

Since 2011 there have been students from different communities in Arnhem Land come through the program, each individual staying for periods of time ranging from 3 months to 3 years. Yirrmal Marika, Yolngu musician, was one of the first participants starting in 2011, has been with MRF for 7+ years. He is still actively involved and one of the organisers of the festival. Yirrmal has developed into an amazingly accomplished musician for his age, performing traditional songs along with western inspired tunes sung with passion and emotion. Yirrmal has been working with mentors Neil Murray, Shane Howard, Archie Roach and Steve Teakle. He has performed at many of the biggest festivals in Australia and has won multiple awards and accolades. Yirrmal aims to set an example for Indigenous youth and to be a strong, positive role-model for the young generation.

Concep

The concept of the Two Worlds Festival is to create a culturally significant event that celebrates both Indigenous and Western Culture and seeks to bridge a knowledge gap between the two worlds. The objective is to do this in a fun, entertaining and interactive environment.

Two Worlds Festival will showcase a variety of indigenous and western performers, art, traditional and not so traditional activities, indigenous and modern multicultural food offerings. A true celebration of Australia, the old and the new.

Whilst sharing the rich Indigenous culture of language, ceremony and customs, Two Worlds Festival will also celebrate all genres of music, art and culture from both Indigenous and western performers alike.

Two Worlds Festival is a ‘not for profit’ event that aims to grow organically into a recognised major event that entertains, educates, stimulates and promotes interaction and understanding across two cultures.