The NeuroRhythm Program connects Queensland brain injury survivors through rhythm and music

In 2024, Citrine Sun Entertainment received a grant from The Heart Foundations Active Australia Innovation Challenge to create the NeuroRhythm Pilot Program for brain injury survivors and their carers as well as to document the journey on film.

Citrine Sun’s Belinda Adams OAM spearheaded the project as NeuroRhythm Program Director. The program was also supported by Belinda as an ambassador for The Hopkins Centre. Also from the Hopkins Centre is the programs lead facilitator, Danielle Pretty PhD, a researcher and dance instructor.      

For five weeks, six brain injury survivors and their families participated in the innovative community pilot program culminating in a showcase performance on Saturday 31st of May at the Performance Studios, Club Noir in Loganholme.

The ABC News attended the performance and reported on the program in their article 'Queensland brain injury survivors connect through rhythm and music program'.

The program was co-designed by drum facilitators, clinicians and brain injury survivors. Classes were led each week by 3 djembe facilitators - Danielle Pretty (lead), Belinda Adams and Mikaela Bradshaw (Citrine Sun), as well as program OT - Siobhan Stokes.

This innovative program offered Djembe drumming and free dance movements specifically tailored to individuals living with brain injuries to facilitate physical fitness, emotional expression, and social interaction.

The progress of the program was captured on film by Citrine Sun Entertainment as part of a documentary, enabling participants to share their journeys firsthand. The program participants shared not only their drumming journeys, but also their personal stories and what led them to the program.

Participants reported the program was a transformative experience giving all a sense of community with others who have shared a similar experience to them.

Read more about the NeuroRhythm Pilot Program here.