Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance (IDS&G) Program

A Collection of knowledge-sharing and development workshops supporting readiness building and co-creation of IDS principles and practices.

Introduction

Data holds immense power in today's world, especially for First Nations communities seeking to reclaim self-determination and shape their futures. Indigenous Data Sovereignty acknowledges the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples to own, control, access, and possess their data. 

The IDS&G Workshop Program empowers First Nations communities to exercise these rights and unlock their data's potential. This comprehensive program equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of data governance and management.

Through this program, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles, learn practical strategies for data collection and analysis, and connect with a network of like-minded individuals and organisations. Embark on this journey towards data sovereignty and self-determination with us.

Program overview

What is the IDS&G Workshop Program?

The IDS&G Workshop Program is a unique learning opportunity designed to build capacity in Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance. Delivered in three consecutive levels, it focuses on providing First Nations communities and accomplices with the knowledge and skills to manage and utilise First Nations data effectively.

Who is this program for?

This program caters to two primary audiences:

  • First Nations communities: Individuals and organisations seeking to exercise their data sovereignty rights and implement effective data governance strategies.

  • Mainstream individuals and organisations: Those committed to supporting Indigenous Data Sovereignty and working in partnership with First Nations communities.

Quick Links

Workshop Descriptions & Outcomes

Course Overview

  • Target Audience: Individuals who have completed IDS&G Level 1 and are seeking to take concrete steps towards realising Indigenous Data Sovereignty within their organisations and communities.

  • Workshop Description: This workshop delves deeper into the practical aspects of Indigenous Data Sovereignty. Participants will learn about data governance models, data management strategies, and ethical considerations in data collection and use.

  • Delivery method: In-person

  • Capacity: 15 participants

Course Overview

  • Target Audience: Individuals who have completed IDS&G Levels 1 and 2 and are ready to operationalise Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles within their specific contexts. This level is designed for First Nations leaders and representatives who are driving data sovereignty initiatives within their communities or organisations.

  • Workshop Description: This advanced workshop focuses on contextualising Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles and developing tailored data governance frameworks. Participants will engage in collaborative activities, share best practices, and create action plans for implementing data sovereignty strategies.

  • Delivery method: In-person

  • Capacity: 15 participants

IDS&G Level 1: Foundations

Course Overview

  • Target Audience: Anyone interested in learning about Indigenous Data Sovereignty and governance.

  • Workshop Description: This Introductory workshop provides a foundational understanding of Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles, concepts and frameworks. Participants will explore the historical and political context of data sovereignty, learn about key legislation and policies, and examine real-world case studies.

  • Delivery method: In-person

  • Capacity: 15 participants

IDS&G Level 2: Readiness

Outcomes

  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles, historical context, and relevant legislation.

  • Critically analyse the current barriers and enablers to Indigenous Data Sovereignty

  • Contribute to a collective output that identifies prevailing perspectives and challenges related to IDS&G

Outcomes

  • Assess the current state of readiness for implementing Indigenous Data Sovereignty within their organisation or Community.

  • Explore potential approaches and strategies to enhance readiness for IDS&G.

  • Develop actionable plans to increase readiness and address identified barriers.

  • Produce a comprehensive readiness assessment report outlining strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations.

IDS&G Level 3: Self-Determined

Outcomes

  • Define key terminology and operational procedures for realising Indigenous Data Sovereignty.

  • Develop a contextualised understanding of IDS&G principles and their practical applications.

  • Collaboratively create a foundational framework for a comprehensive IDS&G protocol.

  • Formulate actionable strategies for implementing and maintaining Indigenous Data Sovereignty.

Disclaimer

This course has been created by Kowa Collaboration (Kowa) and utilises our deep understanding,practice and ICIP pertaining to IDS&G as well as thought leadership from Mayam nayri Wingara andLowitja Institute. No part of this brochure or course may be reproduced, published, communicated to the public, or adapted without the prior written permission of Kowa Collaboration. Please forward all queries relating to this publication to: learn@kowacollaboration.com.

This course contains traditional knowledge and Cultural expressions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Kowa Collaboration has the consent of these Traditional Custodians to reproduce this material for inclusion in this course. Please do not copy or share this material for any other purposes, as you may be breaching customary law.

Overall Program Output

Through the collective outputs of each workshop level, participants contribute to the developmental of a robust and comprehensive IDS&G protocol. This Protocol serves as a guiding document for organisations and communities committed to upholding Indigenous Data Sovereignty

Important Note

To ensure the effective implementation if IDS&G, it is essential that participants completing workshop 2 are authorised data governance members who will uphold responsibility for realising Indigenous Data Sovereignty within their respective organisations or communities.

Facilitator

Dr. Skye Trudgett

Founder + CEO Kowa Collaboration

Skye Trudgett is a Gamilaroi woman, the proud mother of two boys, and a passionate advocate for Indigenous Data Sovereignty. She holds a PhD from the University of Sydney, where her research focused on the co-design and implementation of monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for Indigenous-led initiatives.

Skye is the creator of the OCCAAARS framework, a ground breaking set of principles for Indigenous Data Sovereignty that has been widely adopted by First Nations communities and organisations. Her leadership in the field has led her to become a champion of Indigenous Data Governance and Sovereignty, actively contributing to the national dialogue on Indigenous data rights and responsibilities.

Skye’s Deep understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, combined with her expertise in data management and evaluation, makes her an ideal facilitator for the IDS&G Workshop Program. Her guidance and insights will empower participants to navigate the complexities of Indigenous Data Sovereignty and implement effective data governance strategies.

Investing in Indigenous Data Sovereignty

The IDS&G Workshop Program offers a valuable opportunity to build capacity and advance Indigenous Data Sovereignty within your organisation or Community. We offer flexible investment options to suit various needs.

Individual Workshop Fees

$3600 per workshop level

Bundled Workshop Package

Register for all three workshop levels at once and receive a 10% discount.

Group Rates

Special group rates are available for organisations or communities registering multiple participants. Quote us for a customised quote.

Join the IDS&G Workshop Program and take charge of your data!

  • Gain essential knowledge and skills in Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance.

  • Develop practical strategies or data management, collection and analysis.

  • Contribute to the development of a comprehensive IDS&G protocol.

  • Connect with a network of dedicated professionals and Community leaders.

Course Location

The venue for IDS&G Workshops is located at Kowa Head Office, 100 Brighton Avenue, Toronto, Lake Macquarie, NSW, on Awabakal Country.

The nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport, which is a 45-minute Drive to Toronto.

Sydney Airport is about 2 hours south of the course location and can be accessed by bus, train and car.