“I want to contribute to creating systems where our people can lead and drive change in their own lives and careers.”
At 13 years old, proud Kalkadoon Man and descendant of the Waanyi, Lardil, Gangalidda and Pitta Pitta peoples, Jerome received an AIEF Scholarship to attend Marist College Ashgrove in Brisbane more than 1,800km from his home in Mount Isa.
“It moved my life in a different direction,” says Jerome. “It opened up opportunities that I might not have otherwise had.”
With the support of his family, school and AIEF, Jerome completed Year 12 in 2013. At university, he majored in Indigenous studies, graduating with a deep commitment to community-led change.
“What I want to do in life is ensure that what I’ve learned can benefit our people,” says Jerome.
“I’ve always wanted to work on Indigenous policy – to have an Indigenous person helping shape policy that reflects and benefits our people.”
Over the past decade, Jerome has worked across the Federal Government, Queensland Government, and the private sector.
He is now an Assistant Director at the National Indigenous Australians Agency, based in his home community of Mount Isa.
“Careers sometimes come full circle, and that moment has come for me.”
“It means a lot to be engaging with and working alongside the communities that shaped me. I want to contribute to creating systems where our people can lead and drive change in their own lives and careers.”
As one of AIEF’s earlier graduates, Jerome sees the growing power and potential of the AIEF Alumni network.
In early 2024, Jerome met AIEF Scholarship Student Kirtisha at the 15 Years of Impact event. She shared her aspirations for a career in healthcare, and recognising her passion Jerome offered support in a way that honoured her drive and direction.
Jerome used his understanding of the healthcare system to connect Kirtisha with relevant programs and pathways. Working alongside the Indigenous Liaison Officer at St Monica’s College, Cairns, Jerome helped identify opportunities that aligned with Kirtisha’s goals such as the First Nations Health Worker Traineeship Program.
Jerome’s message to other AIEF Graduates is simple: “Put your hand up. Stay in touch with AIEF. Go to events. Don’t be ashamed to reach out. Let people know what you’re interested in, where you’re working or where you’d like to go.”
“I’m proud to celebrate the excellence and opportunity that AIEF has created – not just for me, but for my family, my community and other First Nations students. Their support doesn’t end at school, it carries through into our careers and futures.”