What makes a man? Witnessing Mika's Dhapi' (Yolngu Initiation Ceremony) on Elcho Island provided some answers and reflections to this question. What I understand about Dhapi' is outweighed by what I don't. But I understood the community behind it, I know from Mika's words himself that he felt supported, surrounded by men who encouraged and women who looked after him. This was our first one we attended and it was very special because Mika holds a special place in our hearts and lives. To us, his face and name are almost synonymous to our homeland. He is a constant visitor/neighbour, a teacher for us as much as a student. We've known him for half his life. We see him as a leader, not just for the future, but already in the present. He initiates fellowship times and organises people for prayer too. It is a joy to see him grow up into a young man and we will keep learning from him, simply by being part of each other's lives.

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