(L-R) Dr Mark Wenitong, Adjunct Professor Maree Meredith, Desmond Campbell, Andrea Mason OAM.  

Building on 15 years of First Nations partnership, we’re proud to announce the Snow Foundation First Nations Advisory Committee.

Since 2011, we have partnered with 35+ organisations, taking a long-term view, backing First Nations leadership and empowering communities.

Chaired by Bidjara woman Adjunct Professor Maree Meredith, the Committee brings together First Nations leaders:

• Dr Mark Wenitong (Kabi Kabi and Vanuatu (Kanaka) — Adjunct Associate Professor, University of Queensland
• Andrea Mason OAM (Ngaanyatjarra and Pitjantjatjara) — Previous CEO, NPY Women’s Council.
• Desmond Campbell (Gurindji and Alawa) — CEO, Welcome to Country.

They are joined by two non-Indigenous allies who bring business, government, law and social impact expertise to strengthen how we partner and use our resources. Their role as allies is to support while First Nations members set the direction:

• Professor Jennifer Westacott AC, Chancellor Western Sydney University, and
• Anne Cregan, Partner Gilbert + Tobin Pro Bono practice.

Adjunct Professor Maree Meredith, Advisory Chair says, “I believe communities have a right to be informed about the activities of any philanthropic or corporate organisations, especially when they operate on country. It is not only about access to philanthropic opportunities but also about ensuring that philanthropy aligns with First Nations aspirations and values. This is a two-way relationship and a matter of social license. Walking together with our allies, is an important step towards building long term, trusted partnerships in community and across the sector. Philanthropy, like life, is all about relationships. At the Snow Foundation, we put relationships first.”

The Committee builds on the ongoing contribution of Adjunct Professor Maree Meredith, Senior Noongar woman and Associate Professor Vicki Wade and Dharug woman and human rights lawyer Karen Iles.

Guided by the Five R’s of philanthropy of respect, relationships, responsibility, reciprocity and redistribution, we’re deeply grateful to each member for their time, wisdom and leadership.

We know we have much to learn, and we’re excited for what we’ll build together.