The True Fella program is an initiative created by our Indigenous partner, Dhiiyaan. It aims to support the development of strong, positive Indigenous young people who have had interactions with the juvenile justice system. The program offers a safe and supportive environment for these individuals to explore their identity, culture, and faith.

Through support for training programs, workshops, cultural events, and mentoring opportunities, participants are encouraged to reconnect with their roots, engage with their community, and take responsibility for shaping their futures.

Recently, Jesse and Yileen, two young men whose involvement in True Fella has shaped their journey toward becoming community leaders and cultural ambassadors, were supported by Global Mission Partners to attend a cultural immersion trip in Victoria. 

Both Jesse and Yileen have expressed deep appreciation for the teachings they have received from their Elders and mentors, noting how the program has helped them reconnect with their culture and gain a clearer understanding of their roles within their communities.

Jesse, who has Torres Straight Islander and Vanuatu heritage, spoke about how True Fella helped him regain his sense of identity. “Growing up, I didn’t always feel a strong connection to my culture, but True Fella has changed that for me. The knowledge I’ve gained from Elders and the skills I’ve developed in leadership have shown me the importance of preserving our culture and sharing it with the next generation.”

Yileen, a young Waka Waka man, echoed Jesse’s sentiments. “The program isn’t just about learning our traditions; it’s about stepping up as leaders and making a difference in our communities,” Yileen shared. “It’s about showing the younger ones what it means to be proud of who we are and carrying that pride forward.”

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2025, the True Fella program stands as a testament to the power of community, culture, faith and connection. By celebrating the achievements of Indigenous peoples and supporting young emerging leaders like Jesse and Yileen, programs like True Fella, with the backing of the Pathways program, are helping to ensure that the young First Nations people will continue to thrive for generations to come.

For both Jesse and Yileen, the journey is just beginning, but they are already proving that the True Fella program is shaping them into leaders who will carry the torch of their culture and faith far into the future.

You can support emerging Indigenous leaders like Jesse and Yileen through the Pathways program. Discover how you can make a difference today.