How do we open our practice of practical theology respective of our engagement with culture with the overriding notion of being carriers of stories of hope? How do we open ourselves to dialogue in a respectful and open-minded, open-hearted and open-spirited manner?
This symposium will explore the range of theological, cultural, ethical, historical and spiritual issues associated with engaging with hope through a storied theology in the region of Oceania. All the disciplines of practical theology will be brought to bear on both an analysis of the issues and point the way to effective reflections on the practice of storytelling - emulating, celebrating and sharing hope.
Ema is an experienced Youth & Children's worker and Administrative Assistant with a demonstrated history of working in Non-for-profit Organisations, SA Linguistics Departments and the hospitality industry. Skilled in translation, transcribing, program coordination, case work and mentoring. Strong administrative professional with a Bachelor of International Studies with Bachelor of Arts focused in Political Science and Government from the University of Adelaide
Dr. Maina Talia is a Tuvaluan politician and is known for his work as a climate activist. Maina trained in theology and was employed by the Ekalesia Kelisiano Tuvalu (EKT) as a climate change officer from 2011 until June 2017.He coordinated the preparation of the EKT statement “Dancing with God in the rainbow” that discusses social issues experienced by Tuvaluans. In 2022, he undertook Doctoral Studies at the Charles Sturt University in Sydney, Australia. His doctoral thesis was titled “(tu)akoi (neighbour) and climate change from three trajectories, indigenous wisdom, biblical and geopolitics
Professor Mohamad Abdalla, an Australian of Indigenous Palestinian heritage whose family hails from the occupied Palestinian town of Tammun near Nablus and the depopulated village of Zarnuqa, has drawn deeply from his heritage to shape a scholarly career grounded in justice, dialogue, and community understanding. With over 30 years of distinguished service in the field of Islamic Studies, Professor Abdalla has played a pioneering role in shaping the discipline within Australian academia. In 2020, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).
Jack Kanya Kudnuitya Buckskin is a proud Kaurna and Narungga man who has dedicated his life to learning and passing on his knowledge and language of the Adelaide Plains to future generations of Kaurna people. Jack currently works with Tauondi Aboriginal College in Port Adelaide as an Aboriginal Cultural Service Mentor, and has been a strong icon in the revitalisation process of Kaurna language through managing and performing song and dance with Kuma Kaaru Cultural Services and through teaching Kaurna language.
The symposium will run from 10am, December 4, 2025 until 2pm December 5, 2025 at the Terrace Hotel, Adelaide, Australia and online via Zoom.
Registration is now open. For more information, click here or register now via trybooking here
Please contact the APTO secretary, Julian Kluge (secretary@apto.asn.au) if you have any questions about the 2025 APTO symposium arrangements,