The Daryl Oehm Oration, which is held every two years, took place this year on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, at the elegant St Andrews Conservatory in Fitzroy. The event brought together stakeholders for an evening of networking and reflection, complemented by thought-provoking keynote addresses and cultural performances.
The evening featured a keynote address by Emily Unity, an award-winning advocate and creative, who shared their lived experiences across intersectional identities. Emily’s speech explored five key themes, each presenting two perspectives: one highlighting the positive effects of culture on mental health, and the other acknowledging its potential negative impacts. These “double-edged” themes, as Emily described, reflect the complex but deeply human experience of navigating multicultural mental health. Their presentation also highlighted “Multicultural Minds,” a project amplifying the voices of over 300 Experts by Experience from nearly 150 cultures.
The program began with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country by the MC, Nartarsha Bamblett, a proud First Nations woman and community leader, who shared reflections on connection to self, culture and community. Adding to the evening’s vibrancy, the Sri Lankan Dance Academy of Victoria delivered a stunning cultural performance that captivated the audience.
The oration offered not only a chance to network but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity in mental health. It was a powerful reminder of the strength in community and the importance of honouring diverse lived experiences to drive meaningful change.