NAIDOC Week guest speakers

The unique theme of NAIDOC Week 2024 (7th July - 14th July) is Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud.

Keep The Fire Burning means honouring the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Prepare for your NAIDOC Week event with Pickstar.

Creative by Lawson Dodd (Kaurna/Narungga and Ngarrindjeri) from Ochre Dawn Creative Industries, a 100% Aboriginal owned business.

Australia is home to the oldest continuing living culture in the world.

However, First Nation Australians have experienced extreme hardships, ranging from the loss of traditional culture and homelands to the forced removal of children and denial of citizenship rights.

At the heart of this journey are relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is everyone's responsibility to understand the path and look to the future to continue reconciling and making significant progress.

Celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Not only do they have great stories, Our Indigenous stars are also highly experienced presenters, speakers and ambassadors, so you can be sure they’ll captivate your audience.

Let's take a look at our unique Indigenous guest speakers on the Pickstar Marketplace!

Make sure to browse Pickstar's full range of First Nations stars in preparation for your NAIDOC Week celebrations.

"If there's one wish that I have, it's that people appreciate the enormous and incredible contribution that Aboriginal culture could make to our country."

Brooke Boney conducts herself with a relaxed outward glow combined with an inward fierceness developed from a childhood of disadvantage. Passionate embrace of her culture, using her position in the mainstream media igniting discussion among indigenous affairs serving as an inspiration to youths all around the country.

Kyah Simon was the first ever Indigenous footballer to score at a FIFA World Cup. The Matildas superstar credits her career success to her culture and staying connected to her history. Kyah is renowned for her presence off the field being passionate about creating pathways of inspiration and belief for indigenous communities, passionate about informing audiences of the unique stories of culture and heritage.

Paul Vandenbergh is a renowned specialist for delivering insightful cultural awareness sessions to businesses and schools that identify the significant gaps between the Aboriginal and Western world.

The current Diversity Talent Manager for the AFL after spending 10 years as the industry leading Aboriginal Programs Director at Port Adelaide. Paul has spent the past 20 years sharing his experience in indigenous themed leadership, consultation and liaison roles.

Gavin Wanganeen is an AFL legend who won the 1993 Brownlow Medal and has been inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame. He was a 2 time AFL premiership player (1993, 2004) and 5 time All-Australian team representative (1992, 1993, 1995, 2001, 2003)

Post football, Wanganeen now spends most his time as an accomplished contemporary Aboriginal artist, with his exceptional talent receiving critical acclaim and national attention.

After tragically losing both her parents at a young age, Courtney Ugle used football to transform her life. She describes the game as 'The thing that gives her the strength to talk about her loss and how she took charge of her life'.

The current Essendon Bombers VFLW captain is an experienced keynote speaker and spokesperson for domestic violence, resilience and overcoming adversity for people all over the country. Speaking with a remarkable amount of openness priding her ability to inspire others.

Rugby league legend Sam Thaiday quickly became one of the most highly regarded and respected players in the NRL. A proud Torres Strait Islander, Sam was one of only three current players to be named in the Indigenous Australia Rugby League Team of the Century.

Thaiday has forged a successful media career post rugby with Channel 9 and Nova, hosting his own radio show 'Thank God it's Thaiday.' He is also an author of two autobiographies and a proud ambassador of many community and charitable groups.

'Showtime' Paul Fleming currently holds an undefeated professional boxing record of 27-0, with an impressive 17 knockouts. A proud first nation Australian from Wakka Wakka Wanyurr Majay, Yuggera country.

Fleming is recognised in the Australian Olympic Committee list of Australian Indigenous Olympians and has recently designed an indigenous training shirt which will be worn by the Australian Olympic team during the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

Nova Peris OAM OLY is an Olympic Gold Medalist, a Commonwealth Champion and the first Aboriginal woman elected to Federal Parliament.

One of Australia's finest athletes, Nova is the only person on the planet to make back-to-back Summer Olympic Games finals, consecutive Olympics in different sports. (Field Hockey & Track & Field) She became the first Indigenous Australian to win an Olympic gold medal when she was a member of the victorious Hockeyroos in Atlanta in 1996.

Nova then became the first Aboriginal women to sit in the Federal Parliament as Senator for the Northern Territory. Serving in multiple Senate Committees, including the Education and Employment References Committee, Finance and Public Administration Legislation and References Committees and the Senate Community Affairs Legislation and References Committees.

Shane Edwards, a name synonymous with exceptional skill and leadership in the AFL, has not only made his mark as a key player for the Richmond Football Club but also as a proud advocate for Indigenous rights and culture. Edwards' journey from a young talent in South Australia to an AFL premiership player is a story of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. With over 250 games to his credit, his on-field achievements are well-known, including being a crucial part of Richmond's multiple premiership victories in recent years.

Off the field, Edwards' impact is equally significant. His commitment to promoting Indigenous culture and working with Indigenous communities reflects a deep connection to his heritage. Shane has been instrumental in initiatives aimed at celebrating Indigenous culture within the AFL, including his involvement in the annual Dreamtime at the 'G match, which is a highlight of the AFL's Indigenous Round. His efforts extend beyond mere participation, as he actively works towards fostering understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures among his peers and the broader community.

Shane's dedication to mentoring young Indigenous athletes and his advocacy for social justice issues make him an inspirational figure, not only in the world of sports but also as a community leader. His story is one of triumph, identity, and the power of sport as a platform for change. As a speaker, Shane Edwards brings a unique perspective, combining his experiences as an elite athlete with his passion for cultural heritage and community empowerment. His messages resonate with audiences of all ages, making him an ideal choice for NAIDOC Week events, where the focus is on celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Pickstar is the ideal marketplace to plan a guest speaker for your upcoming Reconciliation and NAIDOC celebrations to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

No matter what budget, location or criteria you are hoping for.

Decided on your talent? Complete your request online today - it's fast, simple and we can suit any budget.