Skip to main content

Supporting emerging Indigenous leaders on Groote Eylandt

25 MAY 2023

Training and supporting emerging leaders is one way we can help local communities thrive – especially in remote locations like Groote Eylandt in Australia’s Northern Territory, where GEMCO is located.

In March 2021, we partnered with the Australian Indigenous Leadership Centre and Anindilyakwa Land Council to launch the Anindilyakwa Future Leaders Program, a program designed to empower the next generation of leaders on Groote Eylandt.

This month, our team at GEMCO celebrated three participants, Marissa Wurramara, Ethan Busbridge and Layton Hastings, graduating from the program.

After over two years of study and dedication, Marissa, Ethan and Layton graduated with a Certificate IV in Indigenous Leadership. 

All participants worked alongside the Future Leaders Program trainers for one week a month to complete their study, whilst also working full time.

Program graduate, Ethan Busbridge reflected on the past two years: “Like everyone else, I was unsure in the beginning of what to expect. There were lots of questions and lots of uncertainty. However, with the support of Timmy Duggan our trainer and Sonia Briston our program leader, the group were able to complete more than we ever thought we could.”

Vice President Operations, GEMCO, Steve Hedges, said: “We’re proud to support young people to build skills that will enable them to pursue meaningful careers and become the future leaders and decision makers in the Groote Eylandt community.”

South32 is committed to supporting the Anindilyakwa peoples’ vision for self-determination and a sustainable post mining future.