“Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Walk beside me and be my friend.”
These powerful words, shared by Ballardong Elder Trevor Davis, resonated deeply with the 39 Kolbe students who attended last week’s Indigenous Students Camp. In a session that was both heartfelt and thought-provoking, Trevor offered our students a rare and authentic insight into his life journey and the lessons he has learned along the way.
Trevor spoke candidly about the realities of growing up as an Aboriginal man in several small towns across Western Australia. His stories were honest and raw, reflecting both the challenges and resilience that have shaped his life. Yet woven through these reflections was also warmth and humour, particularly when he shared stories about supporting his son, Leon Davis, during his AFL career with Collingwood. Through these moments, Trevor demonstrated the importance of family, perseverance and pride in one’s identity.
Central to his message was a call for our young Aboriginal people to work hard, listen to their parents and Elders, and take responsibility for learning about their culture. Trevor emphasised that culture lives through people, through the stories they tell, the knowledge they carry and the traditions they honour. By learning and understanding these stories, young people become the custodians of their culture and ensure its legacy continues for future generations.
Trevor’s advice beautifully aligns with Kolbe Catholic College’s call for our students to Stand Up, Step Forward and Walk Together. His message reminds us that leadership is not about walking ahead of others, nor is it about remaining behind. Rather, it is about walking alongside one another, supporting, encouraging and learning together as a community.
For our Indigenous students, the camp provided an opportunity to strengthen their sense of identity and belonging. For our broader College community, Trevor’s words serve as an important reminder that we all have a role to play in building a culture of respect, understanding and kinship.