These days I encourage my children to get a good education, grab every opportunity you can, make the most of it and value it, respect all cultures and treat people the way you want to be treated, always work for your money, take responsibility and be proud of who you are.
What are the top 3 values you think makes good leaders?
1. Transparency
2. Accountability
3. Relatability – being able to draw on lived
experiences.
Some days, to be honest, I feel I am mentally, physically, emotionally and financially exhausted at society’s negative perceptions toward Indigenous people. I am a firm believer that change starts from two points:
1. At the very top – being our Government;
2. From within – as us all as individuals.
I say this not because I think I know everything but from my own interpersonally life experiences. I recognise that the method of madness, is to continue to do things, without change and to follow old roads with existing potholes. As a leader, I am proactive in opening new and productive conversations with others, comparing experiences, discussing solutions and ideas and more importantly, understanding who is who in Parliament with the know in how to assist appropriately, when situations encountered, arise in future.
I strongly believe that current political processes should not include lengthy or “under the carpet” approaches to solutions concerning Indigenous corporation struggles toward parliamentary intervention and assistance.
Who inspires you the most?
My Children, My Grand Parents and My Ancestors.
What are 3 key factors that will make an impact over the next 5 – 10 years?
Aboriginal people being able to have control over their future and having the choice to live their lives on their own terms.
I am disheartened at negative stereotyping of our people and the fantasy of Indigenous Australians squandering financial benefits through Land Use Agreements. In reality, we are the only race in the world who is dictated by Government to establish Trusts which are undoubtedly controlled by Non-Indigenous Administration.
Most Certainly more Indigenous representation within Australian Parliament and most certainly Indigenous owned solution and direct implementation.
Changes in Indigenous Policy - treat Indigenous people with the same trust and respect as Non – Indigenous people and stop the constant rhetoric of what ‘white man thinks is best’. This is one way to break down the current barriers.
Also, close ORIC down or change the CATSI Act, Scrap Mining Royalties Charitable Trusts!
It’s outdated, it sets our people up to fail and to fall victim to corporate leaches feeding off the spoils of ILUAs.