Shakiera and Alyssa secure housing

Hi everyone,

I’m organising this fundraiser on behalf of Yulula Shekiera Mununggurr.

I’m a close friend of Shakiera’s and have been helping her throughout her studies. I’m helping her set up this fundraiser as she navigates a difficult time finding secure housing.

All funds raised will go directly toward helping Shakiera and Alyssa secure stable housing. This includes: Bond and rent payments for their new home, basic furniture and household essentials and any upfront utility connection costs.

I will withdraw the funds and transfer them directly to Shakiera’s nominated account, or make payments on her behalf (e.g., for bond or rent) as needed. I’ll be fully transparent throughout the process and will keep donors updated on how the funds are being spent.

Here is Shak's story:

My name is Yulula Shekiera Mununggurr. I am a Yolngu woman from North East Arnhem Land, currently living and studying in NSW with my 5-year-old daughter Alyssa.

Getting these donations from GoFundMe to help with my bond and initial rental payments would be life-changing for two reasons. First, it would help me stay in my degree. I am currently enrolled full-time in a Bachelor of Arts at Macquarie University. I relocated from the Northern Territory with my daughter because I wanted to attend a good uni. The move has been challenging - culturally, economically, and mentally. It will be impossible for me to focus on my studies if I don't have somewhere stable to live. However, I'm determined to complete my degree because I want to be a social worker, so that I can help my mob, and give back to my community. I also want to show my daughter what a strong, independent Aboriginal woman looks like.

Second, the donations would help me give my daughter Alyssa the best chance at life. I moved here to create a better future for myself and Alyssa, and to be a role model for her. I want to be able to provide the financial stability and support she needs to thrive. But with no family in the city it has been very difficult to get by on our own. These donations will help me get and maintain secure housing, near where I hope to send Alyssa to school next year - Our Lady of Mt Carmel in Waterloo. I've heard its a great school that fosters a strong cultural identity for young Indigenous children. This is important to me. However, finding housing near Waterloo is hard and expensive. Living far from the school, I would find it very hard to balance study and getting Alyssa to school. The housing have found is close to Waterloo, and close to the metro - making it easy for me to get Alyssa to school and also get myself to uni.

Finally, these next few years feel critical. I am nearing the end of my degree and Alyssa is starting her school journey. I really want to get this right - but honestly, it has been scary doing this alone. I would be so grateful for any assistance and support.

Thank you for helping me get a home.