General News
2 May, 2025
School concert centres on student identity
Mitch Tambo’s recent appearance at Maryborough Education Centre (MEC) offered more than a musical showcase, becoming a platform for conversations around culture, resilience and embracing individuality.
While on the road for his “I Am Me” tour, Mitch Tambo stopped at MEC last Thursday to share his message to students through music and storytelling.
A semi-finalist on Australia’s Got Talent in 2019, the singer gained recognition when his debut album Guurama-Li topped the iTunes world music charts in Australia, the US, UK and throughout Europe.
Following this success, he has since brought his passion for diversity awareness and music to schools and events throughout Australia.
MEC assistant principal for wellbeing, engagement and inclusion Julie Reiger said the performance last Thursday was well received across all year levels.
“The prep to grade six students were highly energised by Mitch’s lively and inspiring music, showing great enthusiasm and engagement throughout the performance,” she said.
Performing a set list blending traditional Aboriginal sounds and language with contemporary electronic beats, Mr Tambo also shared humourous stories and inspiring messages to students.
“Students in years seven and eight and the specialist students thoroughly relished every aspect of the show, clearly connecting with both the music and Mitch’s personal storytelling. The senior students appreciated not only the music but also Mitch’s heartfelt stories,” Ms Reiger said.
She said during his visit, Mr Tambo emphasised the importance of positive self-identity, encouraging students to embrace who they are with pride and confidence.
“He shared the value of respecting and celebrating womanhood through his song Dreamtime Princess, inspiring young men in particular to reflect on how they act, engage, and converse with women,” Ms Reiger said.
“Through his storytelling, he promoted messages of resilience, cultural pride, personal growth, and the importance of staying true to oneself despite life’s challenges.”
By bringing the beauty of Aboriginal culture, music, and storytelling to the students in an accessible and inspiring way, Ms Reiger said school incursions like this are invaluable at MEC.
“They broaden student’s perspectives, allowing them to hear authentic stories of identity, culture, and resilience firsthand,” she said.
“Events like this foster school pride and unity, creating memorable, shared experiences that leave lasting impressions on students of all ages.
“Importantly, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, visits from Indigenous icons affirm cultural identity and promote a sense of belonging and pride within the school community.”
On the day, Mr Tambo also hosted a Yarning Circle with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, facilitating a space for conversations, building relationships and to share knowledge.
“The students bonded with Mitch almost immediately, drawn to his warmth, authenticity, and the deep respect he showed for their identity and experiences,” Ms Reiger said.
This is one of many activities within MEC’s student engagement and wellbeing framework, designed to support students in becoming their best true selves.
“Having a cultural icon and talented musician like him connect with students in such a gentle and genuine way powerfully reinforces this goal, helping students find pride in who they are and confidence in their own unique journeys,” Ms Reiger said.