First Nations Leadership Fund

Support for current and emerging Indigenous leaders is a key investment in flourishing for First Nations people in Australia. We invite you to collaborate with us in supporting the future of Indigenous faith communities throughout Australia.

The First Nations Leadership Development Fund is a strategic initiative that invests in the next generation of passionate faith-based women and men who will shape Indigenous churches and communities for generations to come. It builds on over 80 years of Baptist Mission Australia working alongside First Nations communities.

Why is this crucial now? There is a growing number of emerging next generation Indigenous leaders open to exploring faith, culture, community and leadership development. These leaders are humble, passionate, willing and ready to learn and grow. Additionally, many faith-filled and resilient elders are seeking support for these emerging leaders to be scaffolded and sponsored into leadership development opportunities.

Together we can:

• Provide accessible leadership training for emerging Indigenous leaders
• Champion the voices and gifts of Indigenous elders and emerging leaders
• Sustain the renewal and growth of faith communities in urban, regional and remote Australia

Different ways to invest

No amount is too small! All donations will be pooled together for the three focus areas above and distributed accordingly, in consultation with Indigenous elders. For individuals and churches coming together to provide support, or for those with capacity to give larger amounts, here are some opportunities we’ve compiled below:

• $500 contributes to culturally responsible mentoring
• $1,000 helps support an emerging leader attend a national Indigenous leaders gathering
• $1,500 supports a 12-month leadership development pathway
• $5,000 contributes to training through a partner organisation
• $10,000 supports a part-time role for an emerging Indigenous leader in a local church or trusted organisation
• $15,000 covers the costs of an immersion experience for up to 15 Australian Baptists and 5 Indigenous leaders