Emerging Indigenous Leaders.

Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy is the 2025 theme for NAIDOC Week, which celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors. So, it’s only fitting that we celebrate one of our own emerging leaders.

Last month, Zeal Futures’ Indigenous & Diversity Mentor, Sam Russell, was one of 20 people selected to take part in the inaugural Parliament of NSW Young Aboriginal Leaders Program (YALP).

This program was established to help participants develop their communication skills, learn about parliamentary processes, and connect with other like-minded Aboriginal leaders.

Participants spent four days in Sydney exploring their culture and building their leadership skills with the help of Elders and other inspirational figures.

“During the week we explored what it meant to be a leader in our community; someone who empowers the people around them and thinks community first,” Sam said of his experience.

“I’m very appreciative of the connections I made with my fellow participants. It was truly inspiring to meet like-minded people dedicated to creating change within their communities.”

When asked to recap his time in the program, Sam said there were a few standout moments.

“Notably, we got to deliver a speech in the Parliament of NSW Legislative Chamber about projects we wanted to see delivered in the community or special courses we were passionate about. The speeches were an opportunity to be heard, to get the people in the right roles to listen to us and to advocate for change,” he said.

“I spoke about the mental health crisis we face in Australia, particularly in my hometown of Dungog, and the benefits of delivering empowering programs to High Schools to create sustainable change within the community.

“Another highlight was listening to La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council executives talk about the challenges they faced and continue to face within their community. This experience was very grounding, and it was amazing to hear how hard these people have fought and continue to fight for the future of Aboriginal people in their community.

“They embody the leadership qualities we could all resonate with determination, pride and being unapologetic in their response to fighting against barriers and inequality.

“During another workshop, we heard from a leadership panel that was made up of Timana Tahu, Travis Cardona, Clare McHugh and Jack Manning-Bancroft. It was empowering to listen to four powerful leaders within our community – four First Nations people who have overcome every stereotype that we face and created significant change.

“I’ll forever be grateful for the YALP; for the positive impact it has had on my life, and the lifelong connections I’ve made.

“It was very eye-opening to see just how many inspiring young Aboriginal leaders this state has. It was very powerful to be surrounded by 19 other powerful young leaders who have all already worked so hard within their communities to create change for mob.”

As we gear up to celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week, Sam encourages everyone to ‘listen to our Elders, to local stories and First Nations people’, to understand and appreciate Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Culture.

“I would encourage everyone to get to a local event within their community and show their deep love and respect to Australia’s First Nations people.”