Jodie Wyatt is the General Manager of Western Australian Aboriginal Leadership Institute (WAALI), which inspires Aboriginal leaders of today and tomorrow. She is a Yued Noongar Woman, born and raised in Boorloo, Perth and is a mother of three children. Jodie has worked in Government and Non-Government roles. We recently chatted to Jodie about her experience as General Manager of WAALI and being a First Nation’s leader.
The evolution of First Nation’s Leadership in recent years – any noticeable differences? Any challenges?
First, we need to remember that we had our Leadership stripped of us, our people went from having a very strong Lore and Cultural practice to being told everything they did, their way of life, and even their existence was wrong. It took its toll on our leaders. However, we have seen more Aboriginal people stepping back up and being held in high regard. We see more of the younger ones understanding and valuing our old ways. Listening to the Elders as the Cultural Authority, learning about our land, songlines, dance, and the old way of life. We acknowledge that we stand on the shoulders of great leaders, and while we have recently seen a boost in the Leadership of First Nations people, our Leaders have resisted. They have been there all along; we are just taking over where they have allowed us.
First Nation’s women’s Leadership – unique qualities or characteristics that you enjoy about this?
I find in my role, I am very different in my Leadership from other General Managers. I feel I am closer to the team, that while I am the one accountable, I cannot run this organisation on my own, and every person is valuable in their own way. I find inspiration from other Female First Nations women; I love that they are kind, gentle and purposeful. When Aboriginal women make decisions, they consider the effect on them, the staff, the community, and the organisation. Not one more important than the other, knowing they all interconnect.
Who are your women’s leadership role models?
I have many leaders I admire, from women fleeing domestic violence to those in traditional leadership roles. Culturally I look up to my Aunties, my Ancestors, and my best friends. There are many women in the community I look up to. They all do different things, whether business, cultural responsibility or whatever it is that I look up to them, for they do it gently, purposefully, and with kindness always.
Where to next for WAALI ?
WAALI is growing. We are maturing in our content, expanding our organisation and branching out to assist others along the way. We have built a portal to engage in all regions of WA as we are the Western Australian Leadership Institute. While we secured funding previously to allow people living outside of Boorloo to fly in, we also recognise that people should not have to leave their community to experience growth. So in the future, you will see more programs adapted to suit more people across WA. We have also been working in the Justice space, helping to stop recidivism in our people. Bringing culture and Leadership to them while incarcerated, reminding them of who they are and where they come from, that they have a long history of family members who have survived and they can too.
You can learn more about WAALI here – https://waali.org.au/about-us