Resilience through a cultural activity on the road to wellbeing, Project Bantu a group approach

Abstract for 1st Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference Creative therapies in trauma healing Community base approach Title: “Resilience through a cultural activity on the road to... [ view full abstract ]

Abstract for 1st Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference
Creative therapies in trauma healing Community base approach

Title: “Resilience through a cultural activity on the road to wellbeing, Project Bantu a group approach”
Project Bantu is an intervention program that introduces the Afro-Brazilian art form of Capoeira Angola to young people from refugee backgrounds. The project combines the healing potential of musical and physical expression to provide a range of social and learning outcomes. It aims to integrate the three levels of individual existence; cognitive, affective and social development that promotes empowerment, respect, self awareness and developing individual strengths to succeed and face the challenges of life.

Capoeira Angola can be used as a form of psychosocial intervention. Based on dance and martial art, it gives young people a chance to connect with their own bodies and with their peers within a safe container. The activities in the program aim to create a bridge between mind and body, a mindfulness exploration using music rhythms and body movements.

This paper will outline the theory and historical context behind the program, how this approach has been used to foster healing with young refugees in the schools in Western Sydney and will include an experiential component. It could also run as a one and a half hour practical if possible.

Presenter
George Pearson (Treinel George) Capoeira Angola STARTTS project officer