Dr Michelle Deshong takes us on a journey exploring how experiences, histories, and pivotal moments shape individuals and Nations. Through personal reflections and dialogue, we are invited to examine the interplay between identity, policy, and collective memory, and consider what it means to build a nation grounded in truth, justice, and shared responsibility.

This session explores how cultural practices, relationships, and shared responsibilities nurture identity, belonging, and resilience. We highlight the vital role of community in sustaining and strengthening culture across generations. Join this conversation about the power of community-led approaches in ensuring culture continues to thrive in both traditional and contemporary settings.

Speakers: Jahna Cedar,
Ann-Maree Long

Through the work of language custodians, educators, and communities, we explore First Nations languages as living cultural knowledge systems. Join the reflection on the deep connection between language, land, and identity, and the importance of safeguarding linguistic heritage, songlines and stories in a changing world.

Speaker: Malachi Murljacic

At the intersection of data and emerging technologies, there is a growing conversation around artificial intelligence (AI). Together with experts we consider how Indigenous data is collected, governed, and applied, and the implications for representation, ownership, and cultural integrity. By centring Indigenous perspectives, the discussion explores how technology can be shaped to respect community knowledge and support self-determined futures.

Speakers: Dr Karaitiana Taiuru
Dr Skye Trudgett

This session reflects on how place, language, and cultural knowledges intersect across both digital and physical landscapes. Through Charles’ experiences we consider the roles of intergenerational knowledge transfer in shaping identity and sovereignty across Australia. This is a vision of what a more inclusive, truth-based nation-building process looks like when First Nations voices, knowledge systems, and sovereignty are centred and shared with the world.

Speaker: Charles Prouse

Bringing together theoretical and practical, this session calls us to think on how meaningful systems change creates First Nations economic empowerment. We consider how organisations embed this as equity, accountability, and partnership in their operations. Through shared insights, the conversation brings to light pathways toward more inclusive economies and sustainable, community-driven growth.

Speakers: Gavin Brown,
Jess Bulger,
Brooke Scott

This discussion with representatives from ORIC, ASIC and ACNC invites us to examine how forward-looking governance can help build equitable systems that serve communities. We consider frameworks that are transparent, inclusive, and adaptable, while acknowledging unique sociocultural realities of First Nations owned and led organisations.

Speakers: Trisha Stroud,
Cate Bennett,
Duncan Poulson