TRADITIONAL OWNER LEADERSHIP AT THE HEART OF NYFL SUCCESSION
By Zoe Oliver
Michael Woodley and Sean Paul Stephens. Image provided by Sean Paul Stephens
The Ngarluma Yindjibarndi Foundation is preparing for a major leadership transition, with CEO Sean-Paul Stephens saying the organisation’s next leader should come from its own Traditional Owner membership.
Stephens is now in his fifth year as CEO and says succession to a Ngarluma or Yindjibarndi leader has always been part of the conversation with the NYFL board.
He says there is already a wealth of talent within community — including cultural leaders, people with governance experience, and those who have worked across business, government and the community sector. Stephens reflected thta the organistaion would be in capable hands with the local community.
"Who better to run the organisation than a member? That is the top standard for Traditional Owner organisations, for First Nations organisations."
Michael Woodley and Sean Paul Stephens. Image provided by Sean Paul Stephens
Stephens says NYFL is now on stronger financial foundations after working through significant challenges, including restructuring its commercial operations and rebuilding relationships.
But he says the bigger purpose of the organisation remains making sure Ngarluma and Yindjibarndi people benefit from the enormous wealth generated across the Pilbara.
He says too many families are still dealing with poor housing, food insecurity and inadequate services despite living alongside some of the country's largest resource projects.
Stephens says having a Traditional Owner as CEO is a natural next step in making sure community voices are not only heard — but are leading the organisation.
He says NYFL will take time with the succession process and he is prepared to support the incoming leader where needed, while also giving them the space to lead in their own way.