Receiving the Melissa George Caring for Sea Country Award provides an opportunity to acknowledge the culture, experiences, relationships and mentors that have influenced who I am and how I work.
This presentation will reflect on what it means to create stronger pathways for First Nations people in marine science and Sea Country management. It will consider the importance of opportunity, mentorship and equity, and how these influence First Nations leadership, innovation and capability development.
Looking to the future, I will share the direction being developed through First Nations Innovation and Indigenous Futures at the Australian Institute of Marine Science. This includes how we move beyond participation and create meaningful opportunities for First Nations people and organisations to build capability, lead work and exercise greater authority in caring for Sea Country.
Ultimately, the way forward is not only about supporting individuals to find their own path, but creating the conditions for many others to follow.