Participant Profiles

New South Wales

Phoebe McIlwraith – 17 – Halekulani – Shortland Phoebe, a young Bundjalung and Worimi woman, is the school captain at Morisset High School. She has received numerous school and community awards. Phoebe represented her school in the first NSW Junior Youth Parliament and the United Nations Public Speaking Competition, where she was a state semi-finalist. As part of Education Week, Phoebe was selected for the Secretary for a Day Program where she shadowed the Director of Connected Communities. Last year Phoebe volunteered one morning a week at her local primary school as a literacy tutor. She believes such activities will empower change. Phoebe is selfless in giving back to her community and recognises that education and reciprocity can strongly influence the community and will provide generational benefits.

Brenton Hawken – 22 – Parkes – Riverina Brenton is a Wiradjuri man. His community contributions are balanced between local events in Parkes and life at Charles Sturt University where he is a residential adviser and tutor and former president of the Indigenous Student Club. He is undertaking a Bachelor of Education and hopes one day to become a school principal. Brenton is passionate about education, particularly in rural and regional Australia. Letters of support for Brenton attest to his leadership, mentoring abilities and community involvement. A noteworthy achievement was the way Brenton managed a paver beautification project at his high school during Higher School Certificate year. Brenton was involved in the design, fundraising of $15,000, project delivery on budget and planning the official opening. He has been nominated for and received a number of awards. Brenton has demonstrated his involvement and engagement with both the Indigenous and wider communities,

highlighting his focus on promoting inclusion, diversity and equality for the most vulnerable. Brenton hopes to inspire and encourage other youth across the state to get a solid education and to achieve their dreams and ambitions.

Isaiah Dawe – 22 – Redfern – Sydney Isaiah is a descendant of the Butchulla and Gawara Peoples and works at the Human Rights Commission and at Lendlease and has just been seconded to the AFL. He sits on the Youth Board for the Aboriginal Child, Family and Community Care State Secretariat (NSW). He has just received the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander of the Year Regional Achievement Award and has been nominated for the NSW Medal. In 2016 he completed IPROWD at Eora TAFE, a program for Indigenous people to gain entry into the NSW Police Force. He was recognised by the Redfern Police for his discipline, routine and excellence in police studies. Isaiah participated in the most recent Sydney to Hobart yacht race with the first Indigenous team to take part. He is an active member of the Tribal Warrior boxing program in Redfern and is driven to improve the lives of young people. Isaiah’s passion for inspiring disadvantaged youth is borne out of his own experience growing up in 17 different foster homes. This inspired him to develop his own not-for-profit

organisation called ID Know Yourself ™, a mentoring program for young Indigenous people in the foster care system.

Cody Jones – 21 – Dubbo – Parkes Cody is a Wiradjuri man studying social work at Charles Sturt University. Having faced prejudice due to his disability Cody is passionate about equality and inclusion. He believes in empowering other by sharing information. He currently volunteers in community services at several agencies. For the past two years, Cody has been involved with several disability services helping Indigenous people prepare for the rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme in the electorate of Parkes. His contribution has been recognised with several awards, including the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Team Work Award during his Higher School Certificate year and TAFE Western 2016 Young Learner of the Year. Cody’s achievements are not defined by his perceived ability or by society’s views of people with disabilities. Believing that knowledge is essential, Cody reaches out to vulnerable groups through his volunteer work. Cody’s letter of support attests to his

success in influencing many Aboriginal people by advocating for them and helping them to find the courage to accept the support they need.

Kirby Pearson – 17 – Picnic Point - Banks Kirby is a young Dhungutti/Biripi man who is vice-captain at East Hills Boys High School. Kirby has pursued leadership opportunities throughout his schooling, which include sports and Indigenous ambassador roles. He is a sports ambassador for the Banks zone. Through the SRC, Kirby has participated in many charitable fundraising events such as World’s Greatest Shave, Red Shield Appeal, UNICEF Child Sponsorship and the 40-hour famine. Kirby was instrumental in the creation of the INSPIRE program that reaches out to young Indigenous Australians to promote leadership opportunities. With several schools in the Ultimo area of Sydney, he encouraged students to pursue leadership positions while improving Indigenous education outcomes. In 2016, the program was extended to Bourke. In March 2017, Kirby represented NSW at the National Secondary Schools Constitutional Convention. Kirby has excelled in debating

and was the first speaker and team captain for his school.

Taliah King – 17 – Flinders – Whitlam Taliah is a young Aboriginal woman connected to the Yuin and Waani Nations of New South Wales and Queensland. Taliah attends Wollongong High School of the Performing Arts, represents her school with pride and is an integral part of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Taliah has been actively involved in her community since she was five and since 2005 has performed traditional dance and song in language at annual NAIDOC ceremonies. She has been on the Shellharbour Youth Council and participated in the Active Community Leadership program, bridging the gap between police and Aboriginal youth. Taliah works at her local breakfast club, helps pick kids up from the bus and prepares breakfast and lunch for them before taking them to school. Taliah recently participated in the Indigenous Solidarity conference at the

University of Albany, New York. Taliah hopes to bring an Aboriginal voice to decisions important to Aboriginal people and to change policies that impact on Aboriginal people.

Victoria Aretha Stewart-Brown – 16 – Williamstown – Gellibrand Aretha is a Gumbaynggirr woman and is currently in Year 11. In 2015 Aretha attended the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings in Turkey as a Victorian Government Indigenous representative. Aretha has been active in NAIDOC activities at her school and has taken on leadership roles in the community. Aretha’s strong family support network enables her to have the capacity to participate in leadership opportunities. She acknowledges that these opportunities were not available to older members of her family and she strives to be a role model and to make her family and community proud.

Ruby Herrmann – 19 – Brunswick West – Wills Ruby is a Lama Lama woman from Cape York in Far North Queensland. She is currently completing a traineeship at the Australian Centre for Moving Images through the AFL ArtsReady program. Ruby has a passion for human rights and closing the gap in Indigenous health outcomes. She feels that it is important to participate in elections so Indigenous Australians can shape their own future and speak on issues that affect them. Ruby wants to be a voice to those who don’t have one. She is an advocate for social justice and human rights issues and an ally of the LGBTI community. Nikki Madgwick – 24 – Heathmont – Deakin Nikki is a Worimi woman from the eastern coastal region of New South Wales. Nikki aspires to be a role model for Indigenous youth and inspire her community to achieve their goals. In 2016, Nikki received the youth leadership award at the Local Government Youth Leadership event. Nikki has recently undertaken The First 1000 Days training, which aims to provide a coordinated, comprehensive intervention addressing the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from (pre)conception to two years of age to lay a good foundation for their health and wellbeing. Nikki is passionate about sharing this initiative with her

community through programs, events and education.

Merinda Dryden – 19 – Brunswick – Wills Merinda is a proud Yorta Yorta woman based in Melbourne and works at the Department of Justice and Regulation. Merinda was proudly crowned Victoria's Miss Naidoc 2016-Current. Merinda is now a member of the Naidoc Committee to ensure support for future Mr & Miss Naidoc. Merinda conducts regular speaking engagements across Victoria and is a strong representative for her community.

Jedda Patten – 23 – Lakes Entrance – Gippsland Jedda is a Gunai woman from Gippsland in Victoria. Jedda comes from a strong bloodline - a proud and political family for Aboriginal history and rights. Jedda is completing her Diploma in Community Services work. She is passionate about her Aboriginality and her Aboriginal Community. As part of a state government initiated treaty making process, Jedda is facilitating clan-based treaty discussions and implementing regional education on treaty to be represented to the Victorian Government. Jedda is dedicated to carrying on her Elders’ knowledge and strength and feels this is important in being an advocate and leader for her

community and for Victoria. Jedda wants a more stable and stronger future for Australia’s First Nation people. She is a role model in her community and is keen to make deadly connections and networks with other NIYP participants.

Aimee McCartney – 24 – Lalor – Scullin Aimee is a Taungurung and Wotjobaluk woman from north-west Victoria and is a Koori employment adviser for the Department of Justice and Regulation. Aimee wants to be a future leader to affect change by informing governments on current issues affecting Indigenous communities. Aimee is active in her local land council and an adviser on the interim negotiation team on best practice for native title rights on behalf of her family. She wants to develop her leadership skills and meet current and future Indigenous leaders as she is passionate about raising the voices of Indigenous youth and learning how to influence decision makers.

Queensland

Tegan Burke – 18 – Cloncurry – Kennedy A young Kalkadoon woman, Tegan is a role model for the youth of Cloncurry, a small community of just under 3,000 residents, in north-west Queensland. Tegan has overcome challenges faced by many young people in small communities to achieve success in her career as a personal banker with Westpac. She has won a number of awards, including North Queensland Trainee of the Year 2015. Tegan believes youth are our voice and future and relishes the opportunity to share the challenges she overcame to inspire other young people. She applies her positive mindset and strong desire to lead and influence by regularly visiting local schools to talk to students and teachers. Tegan wants Indigenous people to have a voice in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. She wants to apply her NIYP experience to continue to encourage other young people to achieve great things.

Kaitlyn Lodewikus – 22 – Bundaberg – Hinkler Kaitlyn hails from Mount Morgan, a small rural community of 2,000 residents in central Queensland. In 2016 Kaitlyn attended a workshop on language reclamation and discovered a new passion. Kaitlyn moved to Bundaberg to research and revitalise Indigenous languages and enable others to recognise and take pride in this aspect of their cultural heritage. Kaitlyn has a great passion for youth with her commitment evident in her frequent visits to Tannum Sands (200 kms away) to help run the Young People Making a Difference Camps – an organisation she helped establish. The weekend programs assist young people in dealing with significant issues and overcoming barriers to a better life. Kaitlyn has volunteered for numerous youth organisations, including the Rockhampton Youth Club and her local youth centre in Mount Morgan. Kaitlyn dreams one day to tell her children and great

grandchildren of her contribution to making change for the better.

Jasmine Brook – 17 – Tully – Kennedy As a proud Aboriginal woman from Tully, south of Cairns, Jasmine has a strong voice, an empowering presence and early leadership experience. Through her position in the Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Program at Tully High School, Jasmine has strong cultural identification and pride. She is currently helping to organise a three-day camp for the school’s Indigenous leaders to the Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival, which is an opportunity to motivate and inspire participants. Jasmine feels very strongly about the limited progress in addressing Indigenous disadvantage demonstrated in the recent Closing the Gap Report. She believes that participation in the electoral and parliamentary systems can empower Indigenous people to close the gap and achieve true equality and reconciliation with other Australians. Jasmine considers the NIYP her opportunity to strengthen her skills as an Indigenous leader and to promote Indigenous political and social engagement.

Lane Brookes – 22 – Roma – Maranoa Lane’s nation is the Mandandanji and Kangoulu in the western districts of Queensland. He has forged a strong reputation in his home town of Roma, where he has organised activities that raised over $50,000 to benefit local people as part of the annual charity rugby league All Stars game. Lane was motivated to encourage community members to strive to look after each other and those less fortunate. He sees it as a way to enable youth volunteers to develop pride in their culture and community. In 2016 Lane was awarded Young Legend of the Year for Australian Tidy Towns on the strength of his commitment, community spirit and the energy he throws into every venture. Lane’s dream is to become a politician. He lives on his traditional land, loves his community and aspires to be the youngest councillor, first Aboriginal Mayor for Roma and Member of Parliament for Maranoa.

Tamas Davis – 16 – Mundoolun – Wright Tamas is a very proud Cobble Cobble Warra man, a product of Logan City, with a strong connection to the Bunya Mountains. He is part of the gifted and talented program at Windaroo Valley State High School, where he is respected by students and staff because of his positive attitude and his respect for others. Tamas is a leader for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at his school, promoting Indigenous events and activities. He participates in all school events, including presentation of the Acknowledgement of Country in Burungam, Yagambeh and English languages. He has been a leader at his school Connect Camps and in his local community where, for the past seven years, he has taught the traditional dances of the Cobble Cobble people. Tamas was recently added to ISAN (Indigenous Student Ambassador Network) and participates in their camps. Tamas

aligns himself and his future with Indigenous political role models, sharing their dedication to secure the freedoms and rights his Indigenous forebears fought for. He aspires to be an advocate for his culture of which he is proud.

Cameron Summers-Borchard – 22 – Wishart– Bonner Cameron is studying at Griffith University in Brisbane, where he is committed to advancing the wellbeing and social standing of young Indigenous people. He is the secretary of the Griffith Indigenous Student Association and the student representative on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee. He facilitates cultural and social events, including National Reconciliation and NAIDOC Weeks. Cameron is immensely proud of his cultural heritage. Cameron believes that in a participatory democracy, our vote is our voice and the most effective way to enact change. A proud achievement was a trip Cameron helped organise for fellow university students (Indigenous and non–Indigenous) to Cherbourg to learn, or be reminded, of the town’s enduring significance to the Indigenous people, to engage with the community and instil the confidence to pursue higher education. His referee describes him as extraordinarily gifted, intellectually skilled and articulate.

Torres Strait Islands

Jafar Cook – 24 – Thursday Island – Leichhardt From Erub Island, and living on Thursday Island, Torres Strait Islander Jafar Cook wants to be a future Indigenous leader to help current and future generations reach their full potential. On Thursday Island he is involved in the local sporting scene, including in the leadership group of his rugby league team. Jafar is focused on developing his community, including through his involvement in junior league, traditional camps, cooking and hunting and teaching art, traditional culture and dance. Jafar is interested in parliamentary and electoral systems, to compare these with the traditional and cultural values handed down. Jafar’s referee, an Elder in his community, believes Jafar has much to offer as a future leader, in the region, the state and nationally.

Kathryn Dorante – 20 – Hamilton– Brisbane Kathryn is a Torres Strait Islander woman working and studying for a dual Bachelor of Business and Law at Queensland University of Technology. Kathryn believes Indigenous people are underrepresented in professional and political positions. She wants to help close this gap. Kathryn has a passion for social justice, human rights and animal rights and is involved with four not-for-profit organisations. She is also a university ambassador. Kathryn coordinates events such as National Sorry Day, Reconciliation and NAIDOC Weeks. She would like to increase Indigenous parliamentary representation, see a treaty and constitutional recognition, reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the prison system and close the gap on Indigenous disadvantage documented in the

Reconciliation Barometer Survey and the Closing the Gap Report. Kathryn’s personal goal is to get involved in politics to address current social justice issues.

Western Australia

Wynston Shovellor-Sesar – 23 – Bidyadanga Community – Durack Wynston is from the Bidyadanga Community on the Kimberley coast, 1,590 kms from Perth and 180 kms from Broome. His job, as a Karajarri ranger with the Kimberley Land Council, involves taking youth on camps back to Country to learn about traditional culture and knowledge and the importance of healthy eating and keeping fit. It is a role he particularly enjoys given his own interest in physical fitness and Indigenous culture. He has established and enjoys a good rapport with local Elders who he draws on in his youth development activities, such as for knowledge of cultural protocols and the traditional names of plants and animals. Wynston has made the most of overseas travel opportunities. He looks forward to the NIYP as an opportunity to connect with and learn from other young people from across Australia. His referee considers him a future community leader.

Thomas Betts – 22 – Perth – Hasluck Thomas’ aim is to help and inspire other young Indigenous people to be the best they can. Committed to creating positive change, Thomas is heavily involved in NAIDOC Reconciliation Week activities. He works for the Western Australian Housing Authority where his role involves raising residents’ awareness of health and education programs. His referee described him as a community minded person whose involvement in health promotion has firmly established him as a positive role model.

Anthony Turner – 16 – Albany – O’Connor Anthony’s aim is to work for positive change and to help develop a brighter future for the youth of today. He is involved with the local Noongar radio station and helps organise events across the Albany community. His achievements have been widely recognised with the North Albany Senior High School Citizenship Award and the Ruth Sell Community Service Award among others. Anthony was encouraged to apply for the NIYP by several community leaders from the Albany region. His referee noted that Elders see him as a positive role model.

Alice Sambo – 17 – Carnarvon – Durack Alice’s aim is to raise awareness of what Indigenous culture has to offer Australian society. She is an enthusiastic events organiser in her school community. Alice recently hosted a school assembly with the Premier as the guest-of-honour, a great opportunity to engage with and learn from a high profile public figure. Alice is particularly interested in multiculturalism and wants to ensure Australian society benefits from different cultural backgrounds and perspectives. Alice spent two years at Perth’s Newton Moore College and has returned to Carnarvon to complete Year 12. She has been selected to attend the University of Western Australia’s leadership program where she wants to study law. She is not afraid to speak out on issues she believes are important. Her referee considers her a natural leader and role model.

Temika Von Senden – 16 – Kalgoorlie – O’Connor Temika is currently studying at the Eastern Goldfields College as part of the Follow the Dream program. She believes that sharing her views and thoughts, about the problems young Indigenous people face, with Elders and other influential people will help the community work together to create a better future for Indigenous people. She is passionate about promoting Indigenous culture and preserving its strong ideals. Temika works with the Aboriginal Workforce Development Centre in Kalgoorlie to promote employment opportunities. Support and guidance from Elders is a key element of all Temika’s community activities. Her passion for Indigenous culture, her desire to have a voice on Indigenous matters and to listen and learn from other young people motivated her interest in the NIYP.

Brianne Yarran – 18 – Perth – Cowan Brianne believes she should apply her natural confidence and public speaking abilities to stand up for what she believes is right for her people, land and culture. She wants to be a voice for Indigenous youth, for her grandparents and other Elders who were stripped of their voice in their own Noongar country. Brianne has extensive public speaking experience including to government, corporate and community audiences. Her speeches focus on her grandmother’s experiences as a member of the Stolen Generations, presented from her youth perspective, and the steps Australia can take to be more united. Awards, including the Perth NAIDOC Encouragement and Western Australia Youth Award, attest to her abilities and leadership potential.

South Australia

Lauren Turner – 21 – Greenock – Wakefield Lauren's passion and motivation is drawn from a strong social conscience and a commitment to social justice and equality. She is intent on doing all she can to develop solutions for Indigenous Australians and recognises it is crucial that Indigenous Australians take an active part in the process of parliamentary democracy, to give strength to the views expressed by the Indigenous community and their representatives. She believes that through the law and participation in democracy change is possible to bridge the gap in Indigenous disadvantage. Lauren is studying a Bachelor of Law at the University of Adelaide and has been involved in a number of activities at local and international level, which have given her firsthand experience of communities in need. In 2016 she represented her university at the World Indigenous Law Conference and on return presented on her experience to the Law Foundation of South Australia.

Lauren has broad experience and believes the NIYP will develop her understanding of how parliamentary democracy can improve the lives and outcomes of Indigenous Australians.

Lennon Rankine – 20 – Seaton – Hindmarsh Lennon is a strong Ngarrindjeri man who has come through many challenging life experiences, including two and a half years in juvenile detention and many hours of mandatory community service. Through his community work, whether mentoring young offenders, assisting Aboriginal Elders, or providing home care services to Aboriginal people with disabilities, he has discovered the great satisfaction of helping others. These experiences have been life-changing and he now stands as a role model, turning his life around, educating himself and in the process becoming a mentor and leader. Lennon sees that Aboriginal people are underrepresented in parliament and is concerned about the low Indigenous enrolment rate and the consequence of their absent voice. Lennon looks forward to the opportunity to meet Australia’s leaders, to understand their challenges and to discuss the plight of Aboriginal

people. Now a family man, who has risen from 'rock bottom', Lennon believes it is time to stand up and be counted and take a leadership pathway he had never before envisaged.

Kaitlin Purcell – 20 – Strathalbyn – Mayo Kaitlin is currently an Indigenous trainee with SAPOL (South Australian Police) with aspirations to be a community constable. A celebrated footballer in her own right, Kaitlin is involved in the AFL and, through leadership and action, has worked with the Great Southern Football League, in the southern region of South Australia, to enable local girls from age 10 to participate in all female teams. In the upcoming season Kaitlin will coach a new group of female footballers. Every Friday evening on Tribe FM Community Radio Wilunga, Kaitlin promotes women’s football. She sees that women's football as an excellent platform for women to grow in confidence, strength and pride and through teamwork and cultural awareness bypass negative stereotypes. Kaitlin believes in empowerment through participation, but sees the need for more education and Indigenous representation. She believes that this will be

the pathway to develop stronger First Nation Peoples. She feels that being a young parliamentarian will build her confidence and leadership skills and help her achieve her goals - to join the police force and to empower Aboriginal women.

Casey Colin–Kenny – 16 – Ernabella – Grey Casey is a Year 12 Wiltja Secondary College student from the remote community of Ernabella (Pukatja) in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands of South Australia. Casey is positive and caring and has a strong connection to community and culture and is a fluent speaker of Pitjantjatjara. Casey is very involved in community challenges and opportunities, participating in the Adelaide Football Club’s Indigenous Youth Leadership Program, completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award, volunteering with Fred’s Van, a food service for homeless people, the Aboriginal Elders’ Village and Cleland Wildlife Park. Casey has a strong interest in water safety and is a member of the Henley Beach Surf Life Saving Club, where he has gained numerous water safety qualifications. Casey aspires to make

Aboriginal communities better places for young people, where life does not involve alcohol and drugs. Casey has worked with young people in school holiday programs, organised by the local women's council, providing meaningful social and cultural activities. He believes that Aboriginal people participating in the electoral system offers the means to have a voice and representation on issues. He wants to learn more about parliament and politics so he can use this knowledge to help his community and make it a better place to live.

Tiana Olle – 17 – Mount Gambier – Barker Tiana is the first Indigenous vice-captain at Mount Gambier High School where she is completing Year 12. As part of her studies she is undertaking a two year traineeship with the ANZ Bank and a Certificate III in Financial Services, while juggling a full load of school subjects and duties on the school representative council. Tiana has represented her school at many Indigenous regional projects and is a member of the Blue Lake Partnership of Schools Reconciliation Action Plan, a community advisory body. She is involved in a community, school and local government initiative, working with Elders and Aboriginal educators to develop a geocaching app, which uses GPS to identify significant and interesting Indigenous sites in her region. Tiana is concerned about the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in both health and education. She considers electoral participation is part of

reconciliation and is keen to represent her community, learn about parliamentary systems and meet young Indigenous leaders.

Ashleigh Darrie – 19 – Encounter Bay – Mayo Ashleigh has political aspirations and is a leader in her community. Working for the Alexandrina Council in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia, Ashleigh is employed as a business administration trainee under a youth program aimed at combatting regional unemployment. She has quickly become a role model for the program and advocates its merits and mentors and inducts Indigenous trainees in the broader region. Through her involvement in the program Ashleigh spoke at the Local Government Association State Conference, as well as other government forums. Ashleigh has been recognised by her own people and received the Ngarrindjeri Nation NAIDOC Female Youth of the Year Award in 2016 and in 2017 the Victor Harbour Council made her the Young Citizen of Year. She sees Indigenous participation in the parliamentary process as the key to effective government and understands that the current situation is one of underrepresentation and more Aboriginal people need to be involved. She has a passion for

her community and is keen to represent it and give voice to issues in her region.

Tasmania

Megan Atkinson – 22 – Honeywood – Lyons Megan has a clear vision for future leadership in her community. She wants to inspire young people in her Parrdarrama Pungenna community to be involved in actions for positive change. As a volunteer at her community's cultural centre at Boomer Bay, Megan is active in ensuring culture and beliefs are remembered, continued and celebrated. Megan is one of ten young people selected nationally by the Department of Health in Tasmania as an Indigenous Apprentice in 2017. Georgia Stone – 19 – Hobart – Franklin Georgia is a passionate leader in her community. She is very respectful in learning her leadership skills from her Elders during participation and film documentation of age-old cultural practices. She has a very clear motivation to be a strong future leader in the Weetapoona Aboriginal community to protect Aboriginal culture. Georgia has a determination to be a positive agent for change and was recognised with the 2016 Long Tan Leadership Award at her school, Rosny College.

Zac Romagnoli–Townsend – 24 – Nubeena – Lyons Zac is an emerging leader and the Tasmanian coordinator for Seed, Australia’s first Indigenous youth climate network. Zac recently completed a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in International Relations and Philosophy at the University of Tasmania, where earlier he completed a cadetship at the Riawunna Indigenous Student Support Centre. Zac is in the early stages developing an ethical business to produce sustainable hemp-based goods including paper, clothing, oils and building materials.

Tasha Matthews – 18 – Hobart – Denison Tasha is an active volunteer promoting the Recognise campaign in Tasmania. As a leader in many community briefing activities, Tasha contributes to complex and collaborative discussions and provides a youth perspective in planning the Recognise youth campaign strategy. In December 2016, Tasha was chosen to represent Recognise at the 2016 gala dinner. Working in the fitness industry while attending TAFE, Tasha enjoys outdoor activities and was recently pictured in the Koori Mail at a community cricket event.

Bianca Templar – 23 – Rocherlea – Bass Bianca’s choice of social work and working in an Aboriginal Community Pathways Program are testament to her strong commitment to deliver positive outcomes for Aboriginal people in the greater Launceston area and beyond. Bianca works tirelessly to break down barriers that directly and indirectly impact her community. With a mature understanding of the current political climate both nationally and in Tasmania, Bianca has an ability to view complex social issues from a range of perspectives.

Kay-Leah Kingsley – 19 – Hobart – Denison Kay-Leah wants to use her lived experience, as an Aboriginal child in care, to provide a voice for very vulnerable young Indigenous people in care, both in Tasmania and nationally. Currently studying at TAFE, Kay-Leah is an independent young woman who is an active member of the CREATE Foundation, the national peak body representing the voices of children and young people with an out-of-home care experience. Kay-Leah has completed the foundation's advocacy program Speak Up, including as a co-facilitator. She is involved in a range of youth activities at the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre in Hobart, including bush camps, cooking and drumming.

Australian Capital Territory

Garigarra Mundine – 25 – Watson – Fenner Garigarra is a descendent of the Wiradjuri/Bundjulang/Kamilaroi and Gumbayngirr nations. She has a strong connection with her culture and community and is passionate about human rights. Garigarra spent the majority of her life in Sydney, working in the Redfern/Waterloo community assisting with the creative writing development of children aged 5 to 18. She has worked with local Indigenous community organisations to build relationships and coordinate activities and programs. Garigarra is ambitious and is passionate about contributing to decision making for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through her policy work in the Culture Branch of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. She is working to expand her knowledge of government and human rights, studying a Bachelor of International Relations, majoring in Human Rights, at the Australian National University.

Talei Elu – 25 – Kingston – Canberra Talei is a young Torres Strait Islander woman from Seisia in the Cape York Peninsula of Queensland. She is driven, enthusiastic and positive about Indigenous affairs in her work in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. Talei is also studying at the Australian National University. Talei has experience speaking on issues that plague her community, understanding political processes and collaborating with other young Indigenous youth through the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program and the Indigenous Australian Government Development Program. She is passionate about Indigenous economic development and women’s economic empowerment and hopes to continue to contribute in this area.

Thaarramali Pearson – 21 – Belconnen – Fenner Thaarramali is Bama Bagarrmuguwarra is from the Kalpowar, Jeannie River and Lakefield National Park area in Queensland. He has strong family and cultural ties to the Kuku Yalanji and Guugu Yimidhirr people and the communities of Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal on Cape York. Thaarramali is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Studies) at the University of New England and works in the Native Title Research Unit at the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS). His passion for issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples stems from his personal and family experience living in remote Indigenous communities and his current work within the native title research sector. He is interested in the impact of mental health and wellbeing, welfare dependency and school retention and completion rates within Indigenous communities, particularly those on Cape York.

Rebecca Beutel – 17 – Franklin – Fenner Descendant from the Kuku Yalanji tribe, Rebecca is a bright young woman dedicated to addressing Indigenous issues. She contributes to Dickson College’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Group with other students to ensure her school community upholds their values of cultural safety, identity and community participation. She is articulate, passionate and diligent in advocating for new perspectives on Indigenous issues and identity. Rebecca has a strong drive for academic achievement and shows great leadership potential. Rebecca’s focus on her education secured her an Aspirations Scholarship with Dickson College, awarded to eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the ACT. Rebecca is dedicated to giving voice and working for the betterment of the Indigenous community.

Hope Davison – 23 – Curtin – Canberra Hope is a proud descendent of the Yuin Nation and dreams of being an advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to be a role model and Indigenous leader. Hope is currently working at the Department of Health for the national coordinator tackling Indigenous smoking. Hope actively advocates for gender, diversity and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander equality in the department. Hope believes reconciliation is important and strongly believes in working together. Hope sees herself as a conduit between Indigenous people and government. She is described as a quick learner, selfless, with the potential to be very influential through her energy and passion for Indigenous issues.

Alexander Radoll – 17 – Bungendore – Eden-Monaro Alexander is a proud Aboriginal man living in Bungendore, New South Wales near Canberra. He is passionate about closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples specifically in health, education and societal status, and is passionate about educating people on Indigenous issues. As one of two Indigenous house captains at Gungahlin College, Alexander is able to learn, lead change and support and inspire others. Alexander has participated in various activities that showcase his passion and optimism, such as the National Indigenous Youth Leadership Program. He strives to identify issues, bring them to light and seek solutions. At the National Indigenous Youth Leadership Program, Alexander proactively collaborated on ideas to develop a tool to help reduce Indigenous youth suicide. Alexander supports people living with depression.

Northern Territory

Kurt Liddy – 22 – Howard Springs – Lingiari A Wagiman man, Kurt is a traditional owner with strong cultural links and spiritual connectivity to his country and people. He is recognised as having ‘right’ of keeper and responsible for Wagiman stories and cultural values and is often selected as ‘our voice’ on various committees by Elders concerning their country on the Daly River. These include joint management committees, land council, scientific forums and research meetings with the National Environment Research Program. Kurt is currently involved in a research project on the pig-nosed turtle, considered spiritually important to his people, to raise awareness of cultural resource management and Indigenous ecology. Kurt is articulate, trustworthy and reliable and has developed his skills to apply western education and traditional knowledge. Kurt believes Indigenous people’s understanding of the electoral system is

integral to ensure that their views are considered in policy development.

Natasha Evans – 20 – Tennant Creek – Lingiari Natasha is a well-respected Warumungu woman in Tennant Creek. She has extensive experience and her advice is sought by many individuals, organisations and government departments. She was invited to participate in the First Nations Regional Dialogue on Constitutional Reform, the NT Chief Minister’s Round Table and chaired one of the youth forums for the Royal Commission into Child Protection and Youth Detention. She is the Barkly Ambassador for National Youth Week and organises activities for young people. In addition to the Barkly Youth Leadership group, Natasha’s activities include Camp Harmony, Colour Smash and numerous events with Barkly Regional Arts. Natasha believes her journey so far is excellent preparation to deal with any challenges, including her commitment to

break down barriers for future Indigenous leaders.

Solodi Buthungguliwuy – 20 – Milingimbi Island – Lingiari Solodi is a proud Yolngu woman from Milingimbi and is currently employed with the Crocodile Islands Rangers. She likes to share her culture and knowledge learned from Elders and engages well with non-Indigenous people, including many visitors from government and research departments. Solodi has experience talking to groups of people, including school groups, research meetings and the local Indigenous community. Solodi likes to give back to her community and has helped write a bush food book in both English and Yolngu Matha for the island and coordinates marine wildlife monitoring projects for the Rangers. Solodi believes the NIYP will help her achieve her goal to be a future leader for her community.

Chris Atkinson – 24 – Darwin – Solomon Chris is a highly motivated and influential sporting role model for young Indigenous people in the Northern Territory. Chris is described as an outstanding young man with a very bright future in the Department of Human Services, where he provides essential services to improve his clients’ health and wellbeing. As a current player for Darwin Buffaloes in the Darwin NTFL competition, he has participated in many club related external activities off the ground and provides mentoring for the younger community. The opportunity to guide a younger generation, who will one day influence the country, is a privilege he finds awarding. Chris wishes to share his learnings and is exploring a program to open other possible avenues, including his own development as a future parliamentarian.

Anna Wommatakimmi-Chapman – 16 – Bees Creek – Lingiari Anna is from the Tiwi Islands and actively and independently looks for opportunities outside her community to make her voice heard, further her leadership skills and create connections with other Indigenous leaders. Anna has been involved in youth leadership groups and has been selected as one of 16 young people from across Australia to attend the UN Youth Aotearoa Leadership tour in July 2017. Anna is currently a participant in IMPACT, a leadership program for school students in the Northern Territory and the Kimberley. Anna is very passionate about social issues and social justice in her community and nationally.

Emily Ford – 19 – Larrakeyah– Solomon Emily is a young Indigenous woman of the Rak Mak Mak Marranunggu people from Kurrindju, Finnis River, Northern Territory. She is a member of the City of Darwin Youth Advisory Committee and is a member of Twin Hill Aboriginal Corporation (THAC). THAC sponsors an annual bush holiday camp, for which Emily has volunteered for the past three years. Emily is currently completing a Certificate IV in Business (Governance) through the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations and was recently awarded the Marion McCall OAM Scholarship through the Australian Women Pilots’ Association. Emily attended the Northern Territory Indigenous Cattlemen’s Workshop held by the Indigenous Pastoral Program in 2016 and is actively involved in traditional owner meetings. Emily is passionate about participating in such forums as a way to create long-term change to strengthen Indigenous communities and Australia.