As part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations, we sat down with our First Nations Program Manager, Gael Duff a Gomeroi woman and our First Nations Talent Lead Angela Johnson a Gooreng Gooreng woman to reflect on this year’s theme: “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.” Their insights offered a powerful reminder of the importance of honouring the legacy of our Elders while empowering the next generation through resilience, unity, and cultural connection.
‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’ is a powerful reflection of where we’ve come from and where we’re heading. As we celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC, it’s a moment to honour the legacy of our Elders and the strength they’ve passed down. It’s also a call to uplift and empower our young people - the future leaders who will carry our stories, our resilience, and our culture forward. For me, it’s about walking beside them, sharing knowledge, and ensuring they have the space and support to shape a future we can all be proud of."
Gael Duff, proud Gomeroi woman
Gael Duff
“The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” highlights the importance of acknowledging those who have stood on the front line to ensure our voices and perspectives are included. It is essential that we continue this work for the future, bringing everyone along on the journey. By recognising the legacy of those who came before us, we build upon a foundation of strength and vision that will guide us forward.
As I reflect on the events attended during NAIDOC Week, a common theme emerged: the importance of checking in on each other. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to overlook the well-being of those around us. Taking the time to connect and support one another is integral to the health of our community. Whether through a simple conversation, a supportive gesture, or attending community gatherings, these actions strengthen the bonds that hold us together.
Now more than ever, we need to stay strong - physically, mentally, and emotionally - as a community. The challenges we face may be daunting, but through unity and resilience, we can overcome them. It is through our collective strength and mutual support that we can ensure a thriving future for the next generation.”
Angela Johnson, proud Gooreng Gooreng woman
Angela Johnson and her partner at the 2025 Brisbane NAIDOC Ball
Gael and Angela’s reflections highlight the strength that comes from community, shared knowledge, and mutual support. As we look to the future, their words inspire us to continue walking alongside our First Nations colleagues and communities - uplifting voices, fostering connection, and building a legacy we can all be proud of.
