FGV CPDOC Project Presented in Australia at Global Indigenous Knowledge Exchange
A global exchange of knowledge among Indigenous researchers from around the world—that was the focus of the Global Indigenous Reciprocal Knowledge Exchange: Developing a Community of Practice for Impact conference, organized by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, Australia. Held from February 9 to 13, the event featured participation from the School of Social Sciences at Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV CPDOC), represented by researchers Laura Guimarães and Amnhàk Maria Aparecida Apinajé, who presented the experience of the project Indigenous Documentary Heritage: A Collaborative Effort Between FGV CPDOC and the Apinajé People.
During the event, Indigenous scholars from various countries gathered with local Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous UNSW staff for a series of shared cultural experiences and workshops. The event aimed to foster reciprocal knowledge exchange and collaboration in research and education among global Indigenous communities, with the goal of generating lasting social impact. It also laid the groundwork for the creation of an International Community of Practice focused on expanding opportunities for mobility, research, education, and future partnerships, while contributing to global Indigenous social impact.
Amnhàk Maria Aparecida Apinajé gave a presentation on the Apinajé Indigenous People, combining her experience as an Indigenous leader and academic with the collaborative work developed with FGV CPDOC. The project seeks to establish a historical and cultural heritage while reinforcing the social and personal significance of the Apinajé.
During the Global Exchange, the researchers participated in a traditional weaving workshop, learned about the histories and traditions of local communities through the Tribal Warrior boat tour, and engaged in discussions on global Indigenous issues that transcend national borders, such as Indigenous education and the integration of Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge systems.
The event also included discussions on the challenges and opportunities for Indigenous inclusion in universities, comparing the specific contexts of Latin America with those of other regions, and examining the impact of support programs for Indigenous students in higher education.
For Laura Guimarães, the exchange of knowledge with Indigenous researchers from different parts of the world offers valuable insights into the diverse contexts and cultures of Indigenous communities:
“Learning and reflecting together on Indigenous knowledge from different perspectives is incredibly enriching. It’s inspiring to see how collaborative practices can integrate Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge while respecting the uniqueness of each group and tradition,” she said.
Amnhàk Maria Aparecida Apinajé, who is also a student in the Master’s Program in Cultural Assets and Social Projects at FGV CPDOC, emphasized the importance of sharing the history of the Apinajé People with other Indigenous communities:
“This opportunity allows us to gain voice, power, and a leading role. That’s why this gathering is so meaningful—it represents recognition and appreciation of Indigenous cultures. It’s also a chance to give that recognition back to our people and inspire other Indigenous individuals to pursue the same opportunities we are receiving,” said Amnhàk.
To learn more about UNSW’s Indigenous programs and the university’s actions and policies in this area, visit the Nura Gili: Centre for Indigenous Programs.
Click here to learn more about the project Indigenous Documentary Heritage: A Collaborative Effort Between FGV CPDOC and the Apinajé People.