Emma Browne (M.A.) – Editor

"Hello! My name is Emma and I have been involved with the Honey Ant Readers project on and off since it first started in 2009. My interest in rural education and literacy began when I volunteered in Alice Springs whilst still completing my undergraduate degree in 2005. Enamoured with the red landscape of the central desert and inspired by the work of HAR author, Margaret James, and her ongoing support and guidance, I went on to deliver a literacy program to Indigenous women in Australia's Northern Territory. This led to other literacy teaching with migrants and refugees in Brisbane and Moscow and training teachers in Mongolia (2008-2010) and Ethiopia (2011). During this time I developed a keen interest in critical pedagogy and concerns over quality of access, enhancing engagement and learning and the creation of meaningful opportunities for individuals through literacy.

I have a Masters in International Education and Development (2012) from Sussex University and an MA in Applied Linguistics (Literacy) from Macquarie University. I served as an intern at the Institute of Social and Economic Research, Rhodes University in South Africa. I have enjoyed dedicating my energies, passions and skills to working on the Honey Ant Readers programme I love the bright and vibrant illustrations, lively characters forming stories passed down through generations as well as the games that make learning fun and motivating. My favourite story is Book 12 'Drowned him, drowned him'.

I am so excited to have had the opportunity to be a part of this bold and innovative programme and to work with the dedicated and exceptional teachers, elders, parents, community members and of course students around Australia."

Emma is now studying for her PhD, while  working for the Department of Education in Northern Territory as a much loved linguist, who is making an enormous and positive difference to the lives of many Warlpiri people.