Alternatively they grew up with a foot in both worlds, eg:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gmCX7R-W4c

Many people that have lived side by side with indigenous people across northern australia, the islands, PNG, et al have a clear idea of exactly what living off the land entails.

A good many have done exactly that for extended periods, dropping in and out from one to the other.

They would have done this sans any condescending permission from those wishing them well - such opinions count for naught.