Aunty Munya Andrews and Carla Rogers are the perfect speaking duo, leading Evolve, ‘walking their talk’, modelling Allyship and teaching others to do the same. Together, they’ve co-authored “Practical Reconciliation,” guiding Australians on a journey towards deeper understanding and unity.
In 2024, they won the National Telstra Best of Business Award in the Building Communities Category, a testament to their impactful approach to making the world a kinder place. The Telstra judges were particularly struck by how Evolve Communities manages to address critical issues with a model that emphasises respect and inclusivity. It’s their ability to engage hearts and minds, combined with their savvy use of social media, that’s paving the way for a more inclusive and empathetic Australia.
What sets them apart is their accessible, no-fuss style. They tackle some of Australia’s most challenging conversations with a refreshingly positive and inclusive approach. Their “no blame, no guilt, no shame” philosophy has resonated far and wide, offering a new perspective on moving forward together.
Their collaborative speaking engagements are characterised by an engaging and dynamic presentation style, seamlessly blending storytelling, factual insights, and interactive discussions. In essence, Aunty Munya and Carla are not just speakers; they’re catalysts for change, inviting us all to embrace First Nations wisdom and be part of a kinder, more inclusive Australia.
Carla Rogers and Aunty Munya Andrews
Authors of Practical Reconciliation and Directors of Evolve Communities
Aunty Munya Andrews, an Aboriginal Elder from the Kimberley region in Western Australia, brings a rich tapestry of cultural knowledge, legal acumen, and educational expertise to her work. Her journey is one of resilience, navigating through challenges to achieve qualifications in anthropology and law. Aunty Munya is not only a respected Elder but also an acclaimed author, barrister, educator, and a sought-after speaker known for her deep wisdom and ability to articulate complex cultural concepts with clarity and grace.
Carla Rogers, Churchill Fellow and award-winning facilitator, founded Evolve Communities in 2005, driven by her dedication to learn from First Nations peoples and their wisdom. Aunty Munya joined as co-Director in 2011, united with Carla by a vision of a kinder, more inclusive Australia through allyship. As a non-Indigenous Ally, Carla is deeply grateful to the generosity of First Nations peoples, welcoming us all to discover our own profound connection to Country. Known for her engaging and creative approach, Carla inspires with her experiences and stories, promoting allyship in ways that resonates, connects with and energises her audiences.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed connecting with you from the start, and want to appreciate your agility and flexibility to create a unique session for our organisation’s needs. We walked away with a deeper understanding of honouring Country, and what it means to Acknowledge Country in an authentic way.”
“Beyond the content itself being accessible, friendly, clear and empowering. The way you’ve used technology, really lovely videos throughout the process, makes me feel connected to you both and confident in my learning and experience. We’ve applied some of this to how we engage with our clients already!”
“This program has taught me so much that I didn’t know and wished I knew before today! It has provided me with much needed knowledge, and a better understanding of what I can do to contribute to Reconciliation and in creating a kinder, fairer Australia. It has given me the confidence to be an Ally and more effectively fulfil my role on our RAP working group and to be a supportive voice in society in general.”
“The course gives you a better appreciation of the history of the First Nations people. Presentation was informal and informative.
Very easy to understand and follow along with. Everyone should do it!!!”
“Well worth it, it takes no time at all and gives valuable information. Aunty Munya has a wonderful, kind but direct teaching style. Great use of images and photos, music and concrete examples to help apply the content. The 7 different steps were easy to follow and answered many questions for me.”
“Highly recommended! Aunty Munya was such a clear, empathetic communicator. There was a brilliant connect with the audience without creating a guilt-barrier for participants that are not Indigenous. I particularly loved the synopsis of Indigenous history in direct relation to the modern history of white Australia. This base level of knowledge should be understood and shared by ALL Australians to acknowledge and respect First Nations people.”
“Thank you Aunty Munya and Carla, for your hospitality and generosity in yarning with me. I felt both humbled by how little I knew, and inspired by the wisdom. It is my privilege to learn from you.”
“I really appreciated the simple, straightforward, friendly approach and the examples Aunty Munya and Carla gave from their own experience. I now feel confident that I can work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a way that is supportive and effective.”
“It was so easy to understand and digest. I learned so much! It has opened my eyes to so much that I didn’t know but also ways that I can become an Ally. My advice to others is to do it! It’s fantastic!”
“Aunty Munya is very engaging and easy to listen to. The key take-away for me was to keep a check on my unconscious bias and to listen and reflect with an open mind. I would tell anyone considering this program that they will absolutely learn something new from this training!”
