We marked a major milestone on last Saturday, October 11th, celebrating 20 years of empowering First Nations Australians through education, employment and business at our sold-out Annual Fundraising Gala held at the Grand Ballroom, Crown Perth.
The event welcomed close to 500 guests, including community leaders, corporate partners, and supporters, who came together to honour the Foundation’s journey and the positive impact it has made across Australia. Hosted by acclaimed journalist and presenter Narelda Jacobs, the night featured powerful performances, inspiring stories, and generous fundraising efforts.
The evening opened with a Welcome to Country by Whadjuk Noongar Elder Professor Simon Forrest Burungu, followed by a vibrant dance performance from the Yule Brook Yorgas, participants from our Deadly Sista Girlz program. Guests were also treated to live music from Noongar artist Boox Kid accompanied by the Tender is the Night String Quartet.
A panel session featuring key figures David Wirrpanda, Trevor Nisbett, Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls, Shane Devitt, and Josie Janz-Dawson reflected on the Foundation’s history and growth over the last two decades.
Guests then heard inspiring stories from previous and current program participants, Artist and Waalitj Hub Client, Erika Fernandez, Real Support Network Participant, Alan Ah Chee, Deadly Sista Girlz Participant, Selina Mippy and former Wirra Club participants, Lawson and Meeza Humphries.
Waalitj Foundation Director, Troy Cook reflected on the night as a powerful celebration of progress and purpose. “From our humble beginnings in 2005 with a team of just three, we’ve grown to over 140 employees, 73% of whom are First Nations, delivering 16 programs across WA, Queensland and Victoria,” Cook said.
“To date, we’ve reached more than 60,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, mentored over 6,000 girls through the Deadly Sista Girlz program, supported more than 680 Indigenous businesses, and helped over 2500 jobseekers into employment. This gala was a moment to honour that journey, our supporters, and the communities we serve.”
Guests participated in fundraising activities throughout the evening including the popular Last Table Standing competition, a silent auction featuring First Nations fashion and signed memorabilia, and an exciting live auction. Standout items included a stunning artwork by Carol Martin OAM, a private charter experience with the West Coast Eagles, and a surprise donation from Rohan Jewellers, 20 diamonds to commemorate 20 years of the Foundation, in addition to an exquisite pair of South Sea Pearl and Diamond earrings.
We’d like to extend a huge thank you to all attendees, sponsors and partners who helped make the evening a resounding success! To our incredible event partners, Shell, Eastern Guruma, Gold Fields Limited, Hancock Iron Ore, KingKira Group, PETROFAC, Wirrpanda Supplies, and Yira Yarkiny Group, and event sponsors, Rohan Jewellers, Juniper and Tronox, our event would not have been possible without your generosity.
We’d also like to thank Blasta Brewing Co and West Coast Eagles for their support. Finally, a huge thank you to all the companies and special guests who attended our event; see you again next year!
