Meet the Heart of First Nations Co.

At First Nations Co., our strength lies in our people. We are proud to bring together a nationwide team of passionate and skilled professionals who are dedicated to creating positive change for First Nations communities and beyond.

Together, we work collaboratively to deliver innovative and culturally-grounded solutions that honour the past, address the present and build a brighter future. Get to know the faces and stories behind First Nations Co., the people who are driving impact, fostering relationships and leading the way in Indigenous consulting.

Our People

Leilani Darwin
Owner & Founder
Quandamooka 

Leilani is a proud Quandamooka woman and the Owner and Founder of First Nations Co. She is widely respected for her leadership in suicide prevention and mental health, informed by her personal lived experience with mental illness and the loss of loved ones. With a strong reputation as a communicator and facilitator, Leilani works across diverse communities and sectors, advocating for the importance of lived experience in shaping mental health policies and programs.


  • Leilani is a passionate and influential leader in the fields of suicide prevention, mental health, and social and emotional wellbeing. A proud Quandamooka woman based in Brisbane, Leilani’s work is deeply informed by her own lived experience of suicide, mental illness, and the loss of many loved ones. Her personal journey fuels her dedication to improving mental health outcomes, and she is widely respected within the sector for her strength, resilience, and leadership.  

    Leilani’s reputation as a skilled MC and facilitator has grown significantly, thanks to her ability to communicate and engage effectively with diverse communities and stakeholders. She has built extensive networks within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and her work spans multiple sectors, from suicide prevention to mental health, eating disorders, and justice.

    With a Diploma of Counselling and five years as a Nationally Accredited mediator, Leilani has been actively involved in developing and delivering suicide prevention and social and emotional wellbeing programs. She is currently a Lancet Commissioner on an upcoming special edition and serves on numerous National and State-based expert advisory groups and committees. Leilani has also played a key role in shaping Federal Government and Ministerial advice, contributing her expertise in engagement models that focus on community-driven solutions. 

    A recognised leader, Leilani has received numerous National and State awards for her dedication to systems-level change, placing community perspectives and lived experience at the forefront of policy and program development. She has been instrumental in creating Nationally recognised resources within the suicide prevention and mental health sectors. 

    Leilani is a committed board member, serving on governance boards for organisations such as Mind Australia, The Haven Foundation, One Door Mental Health, and as the current Chair of the 13YARN Advisory Board. She also spearheaded the establishment of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lived Experience Centre at the Black Dog Institute, a significant step in elevating the voices of Indigenous people in mental health advocacy. Leilani continues to work with universities and innovative research programs to advance the inclusion of lived experience in mental health and suicide prevention efforts. 

    Leilani’s unwavering commitment to centring lived and living experience in all aspects of her work continues to drive positive change and influence the mental health and suicide prevention landscape. 

Marni Tuala
Chief Executive Officer
Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr & Gomeroi 

Marni is a proud Bundjalung woman, mother of five, and CEO of First Nations Co. With a rich background in governance, executive leadership, and clinical expertise, Marni has worked across both government and non-government sectors. She is deeply committed to eradicating racism and ensuring cultural safety within health and education systems, aiming to improve access and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

  • Marni, a proud Bundjalung woman, is the Chief Executive Officer of First Nations Co. and the former President of the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM). A mother of five jarjums, Marni was raised on country in Northern New South Wales and is a Registered Midwife with a wealth of experience across both the clinical and executive leadership sectors. 

    Marni is a transformational leader, known for her culturally informed, outcomes-focused approach to governance, strategy, policy development, and management. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions within both government and non-government organisations, with significant clinical expertise in the tertiary hospital and Aboriginal Community Controlled sectors. She is unwavering in her commitment to eradicating racism and ensuring cultural safety in health and education systems, advocating for improved access and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities. 

    Raised within her community, Marni brings a unique understanding of cultural frameworks to her work. She owns and operates a business on-country in Northern New South Wales, focusing on providing opportunities for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through employment, mentoring, and community connection. Her commitment to creating culturally safe spaces where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can share knowledge and stories has been central to her leadership. 

    Marni’s combination of professional expertise and cultural knowledge has also led to the creation of a thriving social enterprise, a space for community to gather, share stories, receive cultural education, and find connection and healing through food and yarns. This space serves as a living example of Marni’s dedication to fostering healing, connection, and empowerment within her community. 

    As CEO of First Nations Co., Marni continues to lead with vision and passion, driving meaningful change and providing culturally safe spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Peter Honeyman
Senior Manager
Barkindji

Peter is a proud Barkindii man and Senior Manager at First Nations Co., with a proven track record in leading high-level strategic initiatives across various sectors. Peter’s leadership is defined by his ability to navigate the intersection of business objectives and cultural sensitivity, ensuring sustainable, inclusive outcomes. His commitment to excellence and deep understanding of community needs make him a key figure in advancing impactful, high-level initiatives.

  • As a highly accomplished and respected Senior Manager at First Nations Co., Peter brings a wealth of expertise and experience in driving transformative organisational reform. A proud Barkindji man, Peter has a distinguished background in consulting, with a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions across a wide range of sectors. His strategic insight and ability to drive change have earned him a reputation for achieving outstanding results. 

    Peter’s passion for working with people is evident in his focus on understanding their needs as consumers. He combines this with a sharp business acumen, always thinking strategically to win new business, streamline operations, and seize opportunities for rapid growth. His unique blend of creativity and analytical thinking enables him to craft innovative solutions that maximise efficiency and drive sustainable growth. 

    With extensive experience in consulting and healthcare, Peter is known for his unwavering commitment to excellence. His deep understanding of complex challenges and his ability to navigate them make him a trusted advisor to our clients, delivering solutions that create lasting impact. 

    Beyond his professional achievements, Peter is deeply committed to supporting and empowering Indigenous communities. His work reflects a genuine dedication to fostering inclusivity and promoting positive change. Peter brings a unique cultural sensitivity to his role, ensuring that all initiatives respect and reflect the values of the communities we serve. 

    At First Nations Co., Peter’s leadership and expertise make him an invaluable asset, ensuring we remain equipped to tackle the most complex challenges and deliver sustainable, impactful solutions. 

Kulkarawa Barambah Meeanjinu
Manager
Turrbal

Kulkarawa is a Turrbal, Gubbi Gubbi and Wakka Wakka woman with additional bloodline connections to Kamilaroi and Birri Gubba country. She holds a Bachelor of Business Management (International Business) from the University of Queensland and has a strong background in consulting, having worked with EY (Ernst & Young). Kulkarawa is passionate about Indigenous economic development and supporting self-determination for First Nations communities across Australia.

  • Growing up on her ancestral homelands of Meeanjin (Brisbane), Kulkarawa was immersed in traditional laws and customs passed down by her elders. She holds a Bachelor of Business Management (International Business) from the University of Queensland, which complements her deep cultural knowledge and understanding. 

    Kulkarawa’s professional expertise is rooted in her experience as a consultant at EY (Ernst & Young), where she gained valuable experience in business transformation, including organisational change, process improvement, and operational efficiency. Her experience extends to serving on a wide range of local, state, and national representative bodies, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous communities.

    Passionate about Indigenous economic development, Kulkarawa is dedicated to advancing self-determination for First Nations people and improving outcomes for communities across Australia. She works closely with organisations and communities to foster economic opportunities while ensuring the preservation of Aboriginal culture. 

    With her unique blend of business expertise, cultural knowledge, and commitment to community-driven solutions, Kulkarawa continues to advocate for positive change and empowerment for First Nations people.

Emily Dixon
Senior Associate
Awabakal

Emily is a proud Awabakal woman and Senior Associate at First Nations Co., with a strong background in research on First Nations rights and consulting. Her work centres on embedding First Nations perspectives within research, governance, evaluation, organisational strategy and service design. Emily brings a strong human rights and First Nations research lens to her work and is committed to ensuring First Nations voices, values and ways of knowing, being and doing are centred in both process and outcomes.

  • Emily’s work has focused on advancing the practical application of First Nations self-determination across research, policy and organisational practice. With experience across consulting and research environments, she brings strong analytical capability and a culturally grounded approach to all engagements.

    She has supported organisations to strengthen Cultural Safety, embed First Nations perspectives within strategy and evaluation, and develop approaches that enable meaningful partnership with First Nations communities. Her work draws on First Nations methodologies, including yarning, deep listening and participatory approaches that prioritise community knowledge and lived experience.

    Emily has contributed to evaluations, strategy development and policy reviews across a range of government and community initiatives spanning human rights, health, disability, alcohol and other drug responses, and leadership development. Her work has included leading literature reviews and desktop research, facilitating consultations with First Nations peoples and synthesising findings into structured recommendations that inform organisational and government decision-making.

    Her research has also examined how rights such as First Nations self-determination and Indigenous Data Sovereignty are defined and applied across research, policy and practice contexts. She has also previously conducted extensive research on how organisations should engage with First Nations communities in order to build healthy, long-term partnerships. These pieces of work prioritised First Nations perspectives and human rights frameworks, supporting organisations to strengthen strategy, evaluation and culturally informed program and partnership design.

    Emily is committed to ensuring First Nations knowledge systems and perspectives are meaningfully embedded within organisational decision-making and service design, supporting outcomes that are culturally informed, community-led and sustainable.

Jasmin Morrissey
Associate
Bundjalung

Jasmin is a proud Bundjalung woman, passionate about improving outcomes for First Nations peoples and communities. With strong cultural knowledge and a commitment to drive change, Jasmin has begun building her career in service, advocacy and empowerment.

  • Jasmin is a proud Bundjalung woman, passionate about improving outcomes for First Nations peoples and communities. With strong cultural knowledge and a commitment to drive change, Jasmin has begun building her career in service, advocacy and empowerment.

    She has worked across diverse roles in community engagement, financial education, and within the department of education as a First Nations education and support officer. 

    Her focus is on creating culturally safe environments, strengthening connections between communities and services, and supporting self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples.

Dr Bradley Goff
Consultant
Biripi

Brad is a proud Biripi man and Medical Doctor who brings extensive experience from the health, social services, and policy sectors. His qualifications in biochemistry, medicine, and bioethics provide him with a unique blend of clinical expertise, ethical insight, and strategic consulting experience that is invaluable for complex systems reform. Brad is dedicated to community-led design, cultural safety, and achieving better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through approaches that are evidence-informed and driven by strong values.

  • Brad’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) and a Bachelor of Medical Science/Doctor of Medicine from Monash University, as well as a Master of Bioethics from the University of Sydney. His professional journey encompasses clinical practice, public policy, and various advisory roles, consistently focusing on supporting governments, service providers, and community organisations to enhance the design and delivery of health and social services.

    He has contributed to a diverse array of projects across Australia, addressing areas such as suicide prevention, service co-design, evaluation, workforce development, and training. Brad has established strong partnerships with government departments, Primary Health Networks, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to strengthen service models, improve cultural safety, and enhance the use of data and evidence in decision-making processes.

    Brad also possesses significant experience in developing and delivering training programs for First Nations service providers, building capacity in crucial areas like program design, implementation, and performance reporting. His work often centers on improving outcomes in remote and regional contexts, reflecting a deep commitment to collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

    Earlier in his career, Brad gained valuable experience with Boston Consulting Group, where he contributed to transformation and strategy projects within both the public and private sectors. This period honed his systems-thinking and analytical skills, allowing him to effectively navigate complex environments with diverse stakeholders.

    During his medical training,  Brad served as the Indigenous Portfolio Manager for the Australian Medical Students’ Association (AMSA), where he led national advocacy focused on cultural safety, workforce equity, and greater representation of First Nations voices within the health system.

    Brad is known for his thoughtful and inclusive approach, as well as his ability to effectively connect clinical, policy, and community perspectives. His work is deeply rooted in respect for cultural knowledge, community leadership, and the importance of designing services that are locally led, sustainable, and impactful.

Jess Morris
Consultant
Wiradjuri & Wailwan

Jess is a proud Wiradjuri and Wailwan woman from Western NSW, and the co-founder of Strong Spirit Aboriginal Services. With over 15 years of experience across the health sector, Jess holds a Bachelor of Health Science, a Master of Public Health, and several qualifications in project management and fitness. Her expertise spans health promotion, Aboriginal health, mental health, and community development, and she has a strong track record in project management, grant writing, and program development.

  • Jess is a proud descendant of the Wiradjuri and Wailwan Nations from Western NSW and the co-founder of Strong Spirit Aboriginal Services. With over 15 years of experience in the health sector, Jess holds a Bachelor of Health Science, a Master of Public Health, a Certificate IV in Project Management, and a Certificate III in Fitness.

    Jess has an extensive background in health promotion, public health, mental health, Aboriginal health, management, primary healthcare, and workplace training. Her expertise includes project management, grant writing and management, reporting, financial management, service and program development, commissioning, project evaluation, community development, staff training, and stakeholder engagement.

    Throughout her career, Jess has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing and delivering health programs and services, particularly in the Aboriginal community sector. In 2006, she was awarded the Deans Award for Academic Excellence, and in 2021, Jess was recognised by the Parliament for her significant contributions to the local Aboriginal community.

    Her wide-ranging experience in health management and community engagement has positioned her as a trusted consultant who is passionate about improving health outcomes and building self-sustaining communities.

Nicola Barker
Consultant
Murrawarri & Wangkumara  

Nicola is a Murrawarri and Wangkumara woman from Brewarrina and Bourke, NSW. With a decade of experience in social work, Nicola has worked in mental health, education, Aboriginal health, and child protection. As a co-founder of the National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition (NIYEC), she is deeply committed to improving health, justice, and wellbeing outcomes, particularly in relation to educational participation for young people. 

  • Nicola is a Murrawarri and Wangkumara woman from Brewarrina and Bourke in far west NSW. A qualified Social Worker with over 10 years of experience, Nicola’s career spans mental health (both inpatient hospital and community-based), education, Aboriginal health, and Child, Youth Protection Services. 

    As a co-founder of the National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition (NIYEC), Nicola has developed a deep passion for the intersection of health, justice, and wellbeing, particularly how these factors impact the educational participation and future outcomes of young people. Throughout her career, Nicola has observed how the integration of Indigenous knowledge in various spaces can significantly influence the wellbeing and engagement of young people, helping to promote healthier futures and educational success. 

    In 2018, Nicola was invited to speak at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) at the UN Headquarters, where she addressed members of the Human Rights Council regarding the rights of children in detention, further amplifying her advocacy on critical issues facing Indigenous communities.  

    Nicola holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Australian Catholic University, a Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion from the University of Sydney, and is currently studying a Masters of Counselling at the University of Southern Queensland. 

    Her diverse background and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of young Indigenous people make Nicola an invaluable advocate for social justice, educational equity, and community health.

Bradley Gordon
Consultant
Ngemba & Barkindji  

Bradley is a proud Ngemba and Barkindji man from Brewarrina, NSW, with a lifelong commitment to community work. Specialising in youth wellbeing, youth justice, and diversionary programs, Brad is highly respected across NSW and South East Queensland. With extensive experience in the youth wellbeing and justice sectors, including roles with Youth With a Mission Australia (YWAM), Queensland Department of Justice, and Deadly Choices, Brad is passionate about improving outcomes for young people on Country. 

  • Bradley is a Ngemba and Barkindji man born and raised in Brewarrina, NSW. With a deep cultural connection to his heritage, Brad has dedicated his life to working in and for his community, focusing primarily on youth wellbeing, youth justice, and diversionary programs on Country. 

    A highly regarded cultural leader, Brad has made significant contributions to youth justice and wellbeing programs throughout NSW and South East Queensland. His expertise spans a range of roles, including his work with Youth With a Mission Australia (YWAM), the Queensland Department of Justice, and the Family Wellbeing team with Deadly Choices. 

    Brad’s passion lies in empowering young people, offering alternative pathways to the justice system, and supporting programs that improve youth engagement and health outcomes. His lifelong commitment to improving the lives of young people and fostering cultural understanding has earned him a reputation as a trusted and respected figure in his community and beyond. 

    Brad’s work continues to positively impact youth and communities, with a focus on culturally safe, community-led solutions that promote wellbeing and reduce harm.

Raven Tuala
Digital Communications Officer
Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr, Gomeroi

Raven is a proud Bundjalung and Samoan woman whose creativity is grounded in culture and community. As Digital Communications Officer, she brings a fresh perspective to visual storytelling, blending her cultural knowledge with contemporary design to create authentic and engaging communications that reflect First Nations voices and experiences.

  • Deeply connected to community, she is committed to ensuring First Nations people are represented with integrity across digital, visual and built environments. Currently studying Architectural Design at university and working as a part-time model, she brings a unique creative lens that combines design, culture and innovation to strengthen the organisation's communications and impact.

Perina Drummond
Consultant
Wuthathi and Zenadth Kes

Perina is a proud Wuthathi and Zenadth Kes woman with extensive experience leading culturally grounded engagement processes across Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait. She is highly respected for her work supporting community-led consultation and engagement approaches that reflect local governance structures, cultural protocols, and relational ways of working. Her strong background in remote engagement, cultural advisory, and facilitation enables her to support culturally safe and place-based approaches that strengthen community voice and participation.

  • Perina has extensive experience working across regional and remote First Nations communities throughout Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait, with her work grounded in strong cultural knowledge, relationship-based engagement approaches, and a deep understanding of the importance of community-led decision making, cultural protocols, and local governance structures.

    She supports culturally safe consultation, engagement, and facilitation activities across a broad range of projects and initiatives and is highly regarded for her ability to build trusted relationships with communities and stakeholders, ensuring engagement processes are respectful, inclusive, and reflective of local ways of knowing, being and doing.

    Her experience spans community development, tourism, arts, economic development, and cultural engagement initiatives. She has worked extensively within Torres Strait Islander contexts, supporting projects that strengthen community participation, visibility, and self-determination while ensuring local perspectives remain central to engagement and decision-making processes.

    In addition to her community engagement expertise, she is the founder of Jira Agency, Australia’s first Indigenous talent agency, established to strengthen representation and create pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the fashion, arts, and film industries. Her contribution to the First Nations fashion sector has been recognised both nationally and internationally, including being named a global changemaker by the Business of Fashion in 2022.

    Her strong cultural leadership, facilitation skills, and commitment to empowering First Nations communities continue to make her a valued and respected member of the First Nations Co. team.