Episode 14: Living Our Truth with Marlee Silva

Episode Description

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, SNAICC Media Manager Charlie Bowcock yarns with proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman and 2026 Children’s Day Ambassador Marlee Silva about this year’s theme, Living Our Truth, and what it means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to grow up strong, proud and connected to culture.

Marlee reflects on growing up in a family where culture was part of everyday life, and how that early confidence and pride shaped her path as a storyteller, writer, broadcaster and sports media presenter. She speaks about the responsibility that comes with representation, the importance of opening doors in mainstream media and sport, and why young people should feel encouraged to back themselves, create their own pathways and show up as their full selves.

Together, Charlie and Marlee celebrate the strength, identity and limitless potential of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, while recognising the vital role of families, communities and Aboriginal community-controlled organisations play in helping children live their truth and reach their full potential.

Keep the conversation going. Follow, subscribe and share this podcast to help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities.

This artwork was created to visually represent Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, a podcast by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities.

At the heart of the artwork is a central motif drawn directly from the SNAICC Marulu design – a symbolic anchor that represents SNAICC’s identity, purpose, and vision. This central element grounds the piece, reflecting SNAICC’s leadership in advocating for the rights, wellbeing, and futures of our children.

Surrounding this are three figures, symbolising a community in conversation. These figures represent not only the act of yarning, but the diversity of voices – children, families, Elders, leaders, and community members – who will be heard through the podcast. The figures are encircled by layered soundwaves that ripple outward and inward, capturing both the expression of voice and the act of deep listening.

These soundwaves reflect how stories, knowledge, and lived experiences are shared, received, and echoed across communities – from grassroots voices to national conversations. The design intentionally shows sound as both something that travels outward to inform and inspire, and something that returns inward to strengthen identity, connection, and culture.