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Vanessa Elliott is a Jaru woman from the Kimberley and desert region. Her bush name is Wunyadee and skin name Nanjilli / Nungaray with strong kinship and cultural connections in WA, NT, SA and QLD. 
She joined the IBA Board in May 2020.
We caught up with Vanessa for a quick yarn to get to know her better.
Why did you join the IBA board? What do you hope to achieve in your time?
I joined the IBA board because time showed me poverty is more than material deprivation; it’s also about structural and systemic exclusion.
So I choose a purpose driven life, to occupy spaces and usher in diversity and inclusion so all First Nations and other displaced peoples can access opportunities and build their own legacy
What do you hope to see happen with Indigenous affairs in the next 5-10 years? 50 years from now?
5-10 years - that our elders live longer and that First Nations’ languages, culture and histories are integrated into corporate Australia, public policy and is seen, heard and valued in our Australian community.
50 years - That our national narrative and policy shifts from colonial and deficit control. Where more First Nations are global citizens with strong cultural identity giving them a unique value proposition and strength to open doors in local and global market place.
Whats your favourite place in Australia and why?
Near a beautiful sunset and the water. When you got culture activated inside you, and great company around you, the creator shows you everyday in the most majestic ways that the best is yet to come.
Where do you feel most connected and why?
To my Jaja’s ( mother’s mother) story and legacy because we spent lots of time together and she taught me the power of now, the purpose of belonging, and the right to own my own destiny.
Which of IBA’s values stands out to you and why? [Respectful, Connected, Informed, Responsive and Invested]
Connected. Connection is the pre-requisite value to achieve the rest.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
It’s time for First Nations to arise and be all that you were predestined to be.
