Supporting Artists & Communities
100% Indigenous Owned
Family Owned & Operated
Celebrating Strength, Vision & Legacy for NAIDOC 2025
We’re still buzzing from the announcement of the NAIDOC theme for 2025 - "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy". We figure it’s the perfect time to shout out some Indigenous Australians that are shaping the future. These trailblazing First Nations leaders continue to inspire, uplift communities, and pave the way for the next generation.
1. The Merindas
Image: @themerindas
If you haven't caught The Merindas live yet, you're missing out! This powerhouse duo (Candice Lorrae and Kristel Kickett) are shaking up the music scene with their signature blend of R&B, soul and electronica. What sets The Merindas apart is their weaving of Noongar language into their lyrics. This electro pop duo are creating spaces where tradition meets tomorrow.
✔️ NAIDOC Connection: The Merindas are what this year's theme is all about, showing how cultural strength and modern vision can create an amazing legacy.
✔️ Want more? Listen to The Merindas on Spotify here
2. Adam Goodes
Image: Goodes' autobiographical documentary, The Australian Dream
A proud Adnyamathanha and Narungga man, AFL legend and anti-racism advocate, Goodes has been an Australian household name for decades. His GO Foundation helps young Indigenous Australians access education, ensuring the next generation thrives. Now, he's adding 'children's author' to his impressive list of achievements. Armed with a diploma in Aboriginal Studies and inspired by his young daughter, Goodes is sharing First Nations culture through engaging children's books that make Indigenous history and practices accessible to young readers across the country.
✔️ NAIDOC Connection: Goodes' multi-faceted legacy - from sports champion to education advocate and cultural storyteller - perfectly embodies this year's theme of strength, vision and legacy.
✔️ Get Involved: Check out Indigenous AFL's NAIDOC gallery and grab Goodes' children's books to share Indigenous culture with the young people in your life
3. Professor Marcia Langton AM
When it comes to game-changers in Indigenous studies, Professor Marcia Langton AO is in a league of her own. A descendant of the Yiman and Bidjara nations, she's been breaking barriers since becoming the Foundation Chair of Australian Indigenous Studies at the University of Melbourne in 2000. Her influence spans from anthropology and geography to Indigenous agreements with the mining industry, and she's played crucial roles in the Empowered Communities project and Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians. While her book "Welcome to Country" has become a go-to guide for understanding Indigenous Australia, it's just one part of her massive contribution to Indigenous knowledge and rights. Whether she's advising prime ministers, challenging old thinking, or mentoring the next generation of Indigenous scholars, Professor Langton continues to shape Australia's future.
✔️ NAIDOC Connection: Professor Langton embodies this year's theme by combining traditional knowledge with academic excellence, creating pathways for future Indigenous leaders.
✔️ Must-Read List: Start with "Welcome to Country" and explore her other influential works on Indigenous rights and culture.
4. Kirli Saunders
A dynamic Gunai woman with connections to Yuin, Gundungurra, Gadigal and Biripi people, Kirli Saunders is revolutionising how young Indigenous people connect with their culture and identity. As an international children's author, poet, educator and artist, she's making waves through her leadership of the Poetry in First Languages program at Red Room Poetry. What makes her work special? She's creating spaces where Indigenous youth can proudly embrace their language and heritage, helping them stand taller in their identity and culture.
Through her work with Red Room Poetry, Saunders is bringing together Indigenous students from different communities, fostering connections and building confidence.
✔️ NAIDOC Connection: Saunders represents the next generation of cultural leaders, using creative expression to strengthen connections between young people and their Indigenous heritage.
✔️ Get Inspired: Check out Saunders' poetry collections and children's books, and explore the Poetry in First Languages program.
5. Linda Burney
Linda Burney MP, tells the story of her kangaroo skin cloak in maiden speech at Parliament House. (ABC News: Adam Kennedy)
A Wiradjuri woman, Linda Burney made history as:
First Aboriginal woman in the House of Representatives (2016)
First Aboriginal person in the NSW Parliament (2003)
As Minister for Indigenous Australians, she championed Indigenous recognition and rights. Her personal story—from being raised by her aunt and uncle in country NSW to leading in Parliament—is a testament to resilience and leadership.
✔️ NAIDOC Connection: Her work represents the legacy of strong Indigenous leadership that NAIDOC 2025 celebrates.
Celebrate NAIDOC 2025 with Us!
How You Can Get Involved This NAIDOC Week (July 6–13, 2025):
✔️ Shop NAIDOC 2025 Merchandise – Wear the theme with pride!
✔️ Support Indigenous Businesses – Buy from Indigenous creators, authors, and artists.
✔️ Attend NAIDOC Events – Look for local festivals, cultural workshops, and discussions.
✔️ Amplify Indigenous Voices – Share this article & follow Indigenous leaders.
🔗 Explore Our Exclusive NAIDOC 2025 Collection!
Cover Image: The Australian Dream
