Charity Partner:
3-4 September 2025 | Eora, Sydney
Creating leadership & economic pathways for the next generation
In a critical time of truth-telling, reconciliation, and systemic change, the voices and leadership of First Nations women have never been more vital. It is our communities—and the strength of our women—that continue to lead the way forward.
The 2025 First Nations Women Leadership & Legacy Summit is a safe space designed to empower our voices and leadership—leadership that is lived, shared, and inherited through culture, connection, and purpose. Grounded in the theme Creating Leadership & Economic Pathways for the Next Generation, we’ll come together to share knowledge and explore practical ways to drive self-determination and lasting change across our communities and organisations.
10% of event proceeds will be donated to the Darwin Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Shelter (DAIWS), supporting specialist domestic violence services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Darwin and remote regions.
Together, we carry forward the leadership of our Aunties, our matriarchs, and our communities to build a legacy of strength, vision, and impact for the next generation, on our own terms.
We look forward to the conversations, connections, and actions that will grow from this Summit on Eora Country.
Kind Regards,
Advisory Board
Meet Our Advisory Board
The Advisory Board is made up of respected First Nations women, providing ongoing guidance for the development and delivery of the Summit. Their contribution enables the Summit to be culturally grounded, community-informed, and aligned with the aspirations of First Nations women.
Lisa Sarago
CEO
Land on Heart
Sharon Gray
Group Manager Diversity Indigenous and Social Inclusion
CPB Contractors
Rachelle Towart OAM
Managing Director
Pipeline Talent Pty Ltd
and Dreamjobz
Jacara Egan
Head of Operations, Cultural Practice and Engagement
Headspace National Youth
Mental Health Foundation
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About Our Charity Partner
Darwin Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Womens Shelter
(DAIWS) was established in 1986 as a safe place for women and children escaping violence. For over 36 years DAIWS remains a proud Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing specialist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander domestic violence support service in Darwin and remote communities.
Speakers
Hon Linda Burney MP
Former Australian Minister for Indigenous Australians
Aunty Professor Lynette Riley
Wiradjuri/Gamilaroi Country
Professor and Chair, Aboriginal Education and Indigenous Studies; Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee
University of Sydney
Kate Russell
Awabakal Woman
Chief Executive Officer
Supply Nation
Lynda Edwards
Director of First Nations Policy
Financial Counselling Australia; 2023 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
Carol Vale
Dunghutti Country
Chief Executive Officer
Murawin
Deb Barwick
Gamilaroi Country
Chief Executive Officer
NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce
Professor Nareen Young
Associate Dean (Indigenous Leadership and Engagement) UTS Business School | Professor, Indigenous Policy (Indigenous Workforce Diversity) at the Jumbunna Institute of Indigenous Education and Research
University of Technology Sydney
Rachelle Towart OAM
Proud Aboriginal Woman
Managing Director
Pipeline Talent Pty Ltd and Dreamjobz
Who Should Attend:
This summit is designed for First Nations women leaders, as well as allies and decision-makers across a variety of sectors, who are dedicated to advancing the representation of First Nations women in leadership roles:
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Community & Not-for-Profit Advocates
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Corporate & Business Executives
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Government & Policy Leaders
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HR & DE&I Executives
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Entrepreneurs & Business Owners
Driving a Cultural Change by Rising Together:
To accelerate change meaningfully, it is crucial to have all voices involved in the conversation on advancing leadership and employment outcomes for First Nations women.
Venue
The Summit will take place in a premium venue in the CBD.
Delegates will be notified closer to the Summit.