Meet Binda
My name is Binda Maranganji and I’m 34 years old. I’m an Aboriginal woman from a remote community up north. I lived there most of my life and relocated to the Gold Coast a few years ago for work.
I have 3 beautiful children. Akala is 7, Maki is 9 and Bural is 12.
I love my culture, and I want it to survive. I’m a strong Aboriginal woman, responsible for walking in the way of my ancestors. I respect cultural traditions and want to pass them on. It’s hard being so far away from our Mob, but I stay in touch with my cousins and Aunties as often as I can.
I teach at a local school. I love teaching all the kids, but I prefer to teach the little ones. You can make such a difference in their lives. I take my job seriously, as seriously as I take being a mother and a wife.
Sam and I have been married for 15 years, but we’ve known each other since we were kids. I remember showing him when one of my baby teeth fell out. We were best mates when we were kids, then we drifted apart for a few years. Our first “date” was at an Aboriginal dance festival when I was 19 years old. He got all dressed up and gave me a single yellow rose. Everyone said we made a good-looking couple. I fell in love with him that night.
The problems began later.