In this profile we speak to Dr Tamika Worrell about her recent graduation and Vice-Chancellor’s Commendation for a doctoral thesis of exceptional merit, as well as her ongoing research on the ways Indigenous authored texts are embedded in high school and tertiary education.
What is your background and what brought you to Macquarie University?
In 2009 I attended the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME) which was held on the Macquarie campuses. I loved this experience, and it made me want to attend as a student. I then came to Macquarie in 2013 to complete my undergraduate degree. I got in through the Indigenous Pathway as a part of Walanga Muru.
How did you originally become interested in your area of research, and what keeps you interested in it
I became interested in my research when I was working as an Indigenous cadet at Reconciliation Australia Narragunnawali team. I was undertaking an audit on the texts recommended for the subject of English to include Indigenous perspectives. I noticed how many of them were non-Indigenous authored and was truly shocked. A passion area was born in that moment!
Tell us a bit about your current research and what makes it so important?
As Indigenous perspectives are integral for all students, from early childhood to tertiary level, my research is exploring this from all facets. My PhD research focussed on the ways Indigenous perspectives are being represented in high school classrooms. I’m excited to be undertaking my Macquarie Research Acceleration Scheme (MQRAS) project which will look at the ways in which Indigenous authored texts are embedded at universities, and how Indigenous students in literary studies classrooms see themselves within the curriculum.
Is there something you would like staff to know about?
That Macquarie University has the only academic Department of Indigenous Studies in the whole nation. This makes us pretty special!
What is something you have recently accomplished?
The Vice-Chancellor’s Commendation for a doctoral thesis of exceptional merit for my PhD Thesis Prioritising Blak Voices: Representing Indigenous perspectives in the NSW English Classroom.
What do you need to do your best work?
An energy drink and no country music.
What is the most impressive/useful/advanced piece of equipment you use in your work?
The mudmir table – ‘mudmir’ is a phrase/term from the Meriam Mir language of Zenadh Kes (Torres Strait). This table is where I get to yarn and share with my wonderful colleagues as we collaborate and build ideas together.
What is something you’ve read recently that has had an impact on you?
Edenglassie – I reviewed it recently here.
What is your definition of success?
When those around me, and those yet to come, are benefiting from what I do.
A bit about where you live and what you like about it?
I live in Western Sydney on Dharug Ngurra. Western Sydney tends to get a bad wrap but I love it. Nothing better than to be surrounded by wonderful community and wonderful food!
A personal quality you value in others?
Vulnerability - I think there is something very powerful in being vulnerable.
A moment you felt proud?
Crossing the stage recently at graduation and giving the graduation address. It was wonderful to share that moment with so many colleagues, peers, family and friends.
What would people be surprised to know about you or your work?
I think I usually raise a few eyebrows when people find out I have 5 cats!
What is on your agenda for 2023?
I’m hoping copious amounts of prawns and ham as we begin to wind down for the year! In all seriousness, I’ll be working on my ARC Discovery Indigenous grant.