PERTH FILMMAKER AND PILBARA WOMAN SHARE STORY OF GROWING BETWEEN TWO WORLDS
BY KALMIA SAMBO
A Perth filmmaker has turned a social media message into a short film exploring identity, culture and connection to Country in the Pilbara.
Photographer and videographer Harry Cunningham first contacted Nyima Tucker on Instagram to suggest a photoshoot.
That conversation evolved into Growing Between Two Worlds, a film following Ms Tucker’s life between Perth and Karratha, and her journey as a Ngarluma, Bunjima and Yamaji woman.
Cunningham said the project began with questions.
“I grew up here and travelled overseas, but I never really experienced Indigenous culture in Australia,” he said.
“I started asking why that was.”
He said he approached the film with curiosity rather than authority, allowing Ms Tucker to shape the story.
Returning home
For Ms Tucker, returning to the Pilbara after four years away was emotional.
“Stepping back to my country town and where my roots are from, it was a really surreal feeling,” she said.
“I felt relief … from being away from all the responsibilities of being in the city and constantly having to rush.”
She said being back with family and on Country brought a sense of grounding.
“I’m back home where my family is. I’m back where my roots is, and it’s a really nice feeling.”
Growing up between Perth and Karratha — more than 1,500 kilometres apart — shaped her understanding of identity.
“My identity was getting very fuzzed up,” she said.
“I had this Perth identity I felt like I needed to adapt to, but I still wanted to know my roots and express my culture.”
Over time, she said she found a way to hold both.
“I know that I’m a young Aboriginal girl and I’m proud of it.”
Filming on Country
Part of the film was shot on Country near Karratha, including visits to the ancient rock art at Murujuga.
Ms Tucker said seeing the engravings for the first time was powerful.
“That was a surreal experience,” she said.
She said the process of documenting her life changed how she saw herself.
“I feel more in touch with my identity now. I feel more connected to not only family, but to my culture.”
The film contrasts her life in Perth — modelling, social media and time with friends — with quieter moments on Country, including fishing and spending time with family.
A message about growth
Ms Tucker said the film’s message was about openness and shared humanity.
“Growth to me means learning new ideas, learning new perspectives and being open to listening to people,” she said.
“Regardless — Black or white, Indigenous or non-Indigenous — we’re all people.
“Every single person loves to have a good laugh. Every single person loves to eat food and dance.”
She hopes the film encourages conversation and helps bridge gaps between communities.
“We all deserve to be friends. Everyone deserves happiness,” she said.
Community screenings are being planned in Karratha, with Ms Tucker saying she is keen to show the film on Ngarluma ngurra.
“I’m really excited to show the film to all you mob and everybody else there,” she said.
Growing Between Two Worlds is available online, with further screenings to be announced.