Our Training
As one of the only Indigenous-owned and majority-operated geospatial consultancies in Australia, we have experienced firsthand the rewards this industry has to offer and are committed to sharing it with more of our Mob.
Indigenous Mapping Workshop
Empowering Indigenous Australians with mapping skills to look after Country and Mob.
The Indigenous Mapping Workshop initiative was founded by Steve DeRoy of the Firelight Group in Canada.
Steve joined forces with Google Earth Outreach for their inaugural workshop. The program also extended to New Zealand, thanks to Moka Apiti of Digital Navigators, giving rise to the Indigenous Mapping Wananga, which has been ongoing since 2016.
In 2018, Australia hosted its first-ever Indigenous Mapping Workshop, with Andrew Dowding of Winyama as the Australian collaborator. The Indigenous Mapping Workshop Australia is now entering its eighth year of operation.
Through IMW Australia, Winyama provides training to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in land management, cultural centres, and arts centres, helping them showcase their connections to land and water while managing digital information.
Our Approach
At Winyama, we're dedicated to closing the digital divide and empowering Indigenous communities through high-quality, culturally relevant training. In collaboration with strategic partners like NASA, Google, and other industry leaders, we offer a combination of in-person workshops and online resources to equip Indigenous Australians with the digital skills needed to manage land, engage in the digital economy, and preserve cultural heritage. Grounded in a Digital Skills Wellbeing Pedagogy, our approach ensures culturally appropriate, sustainable learning that promotes empowerment, economic opportunities, job creation, and cultural preservation.
Ready to elevate your skills?
National IMW
The National IMW is an exclusive annual event for individuals a part of, or connected to, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities or organisations. This free event is our social impact contribution in the world of mapping, allowing Mob to learn from experts in the field, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about harnessing the power of spatial technologies for positive change.
IMW On Demand
IMW On Demand offers our culturally appropriate and inclusive resources on geospatial technologies, completely online. Our platform provides an excellent opportunity for learners to access expert-created, mapping content from the comfort of their community. It hosts content suitable for participants of all tech abilities and offers information on various platforms and mapping software.
Supported IMW Training
Needing some more personalised support? Our Supported IMW Training is ideal for organisations seeking up-skilling in mapping technology. Our expert Indigenous Trainers can provide up to ten of your employees with a comprehensive training agenda on data collection and mapping software. We are also able to travel and deliver On-Country Supported IMW Training in Regional and Remote areas across Australia upon request.
Drone Training
Are you looking to use drones in your land management practices? We’ve got you covered.
Get ready to fly high with the confidence, knowledge, and certifications to back it up.
Know Your Drone Training
Do you have a drone that you’re unsure how to use?
Build confidence in controlling drones and mastering essential care and maintenance in our Know Your Drone training. You'll gain hands-on flying experience while learning key concepts like aerodynamics (without the jargon) and how to identify potential risks and hazards in flight areas. This course ensures you're fully prepared to handle your drone with ease and safety!
RePL Prep Training
Perfect for those looking to advance to our RePL Certification, our RePL Prep training will equip you with a solid understanding of CASA rules and regulations.
You’ll also gain hands-on experience in drone flight planning, data processing, and practical flying activities, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the next level in your drone piloting journey.
RePL Certification
A RePL (Remote Pilot License) is essential if you want to operate drones professionally or for commercial purposes in Australia.
Our RePL Certification training partners with registered training organisations to help Indigenous Drone Pilots achieve their CASA-certified RePL accreditations. This collaboration ensures that you receive top-quality, accredited training, equipping you with the skills and certification needed to operate drones safely and professionally in line with industry standards.
Ready to expand your knowledge?
Whether you're looking to master drone operation or harness the power of spatial technologies, we’d love to yarn about how our workshops can support the growth and future of your communities.