How do we strengthen philanthropic practice with and for First Nations communities? Australian Communities Foundation invites funders to a webinar focused on strengthening philanthropic practice with and for First Nations communities.
Held during National Reconciliation Week, this webinar reflects ACF’s long‑term commitment to First Nations self‑determination and to learning, sharing and advancing best‑practice giving.
This session will explore how philanthropy can better respect First Nations leadership, centre self‑determination, and build funding relationships grounded in trust and long‑term partnership. Guided by First Nations leaders working at the forefront of Indigenous‑led funding and community‑controlled solutions, funders will be invited to reflect on the role of power, responsibility and trust in giving.
The conversation, facilitated by Andrew Binns, CEO of Australian Communities Foundation, will feature:
- Cherie Heslington, Nyikina and Bard woman, CEO of Aarnja
- Shaun Middlebrook, Wiradjuri and Yuin man, CEO of Woor-Dungin
- Louis Mokak, Djugun man, Co-founder and Director of First Nations Futures
This session is designed for funders at all stages of their giving journey, whether you are new to supporting First Nations communities or looking to deepen and evolve existing practice.
What you’ll gain:
- Greater understanding of First Nations-led funding models and why they matter
- Insight into how power operates in philanthropy, and where practical shifts are possible
- Real‑world perspectives on long‑term funding relationships grounded in trust
- Space to reflect with peers on how you can align giving with self‑determination
Event Details:
Thursday 28 May 2026
Online via Zoom
- 12pm AEST (ACT, NSW, QLD, TAS, VIC)
- 11:30am ACST (NT, SA)
- 10am AWST (WA)
Speakers
Cherie Heslington
Nyikina and Bard woman
CEO, Aarnja
Cherie Heslington is a Nyikina and Bard woman from the West Kimberley region, WA, who has extensive family and community networks across the region. Cherie has over 20 years’ experience in community leadership, management, governance, development and services, over 15 years in facilitation, training and mentoring; and holds a Diploma in Leadership & Management.
Shaun Middlebrook
Wiradjuri and Yuin man
CEO, Woor-Dungin
Proud Wiradjuri and Yuin man from New South Wales, Shaun has a history in management, finance and advocacy. Throughout his career he has always maintained a commitment to community. He currently sits as Social and Emotional Wellbeing Manager at the Yoorrook Justice Commission and Strategic Policy, Advocacy and Communications Manager of Aboriginal Housing Victoria.
Louis Mokak
Djugun man
Co-founder and Director, First Nations Futures
Louis is a Djugun man from the West Kimberley. He has a background in architecture, design and communications, working across both practice, policy and advocacy within the architectural industry and First Nations not-for-profits. He works as a Senior Designer of Architecture at Blaklash, First Nations Advisory Committee Member at the Australian Institute of Architects, and was previously a Director at Indigenous Architecture and Design Victoria, and Communications Officer at Culture is Life.
Register Your Interest
This event is open to Australian Communities Foundation funders and clients, as well as other funders across the sector.