Dr LI Ya

Student of Sichuan Normal University, China
Exchange to The University of Adelaide, Australia

Prior to my arrival to Australia for my postdoctoral research, a number of friends shared with me the stunning natural scenery and lively life in this fabulous country. Deep in my heart, I was particularly fascinated by the aboriginal history and culture and the charming land.

In 2012, I completed my PhD research on ‘Endangered Minority Oral Heritage in Mainland China: case study on Tibetans’. For further research, I required an adviser with professional Linguistic background and fortunately, I found the newly established discipline ‘Revival Linguistics’ and ‘Endangered Language Research Centre’ at The University of Adelaide which was launched by Professor Ghil’ad Zuckermann.

My gratitude and thanks to the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards in 2013, not just for its financial support, but also for establishing a study partnership between China and Australia in this academic field.

During my work at the University of Adelaide, I participated in a series of significant activities, including the first globally available course on 'Revival Linguistics’, the weekly Linguistics Research Seminars and the various Barngarla Language Reclamation Workshops. All activities expanded my horizons of multi-cultural understanding.

All participants shared and cooperated together, which motivated us to respect others and resulted in creating a forum of academic network of compassionate people. Even on course completion, all participants continued to meet regularly to discuss issues of endangered languages and tasks required to assist Aboriginal people. This also gave me additional opportunities to meet other friends and colleagues with different background.

Compared with other awardees, I may be the only fortunate one who travelled extensively around South Australia, such as to Port Augusta, Whyalla and Port Lincoln. For instance, I travelled to Port Augusta monthly and join ‘The Barngarla Language Reclamation Workshop’. A project, initiated by Professor Zuckermann in 2011 with the full support of the Barngarla community. It was an unforgettable experience, to be exposed to the fascinating tasks on Aboriginal Language Reclamation. I was delighted to meet in particular in an indigenous hometown ‘Port Augusta’, a wonderful Grandma by the name of Patricia who took me to her home and made me so much part of her family.

My time in Australia was amazing! I appreciated very much the kindness of my friends, who were good enough to introduce me to everyday life inclusive of global delicacies, multiculturalism, the Aussie tongue, various museums and exhibitions, unique Australian wildlife and much more. It was because of those wonderful people that I quickly adapted to the way of life with full of enthusiasm and appreciation!

Thank you for the sponsorship of Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards again, it’s such brilliant program that is worthy of every endeavor in the future!

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