Mundanara’s cultural heritage is connected to the Wonnarua and Bunjalung people on her mother’s side and the Birri-Gubba and Gungalu on her father’s side. Mundanara grew up in Redfern NSW with her 8 sisters and moved to her father’s country in the early 90’s. Coming from a family that has been active in the Aboriginal movement since the 60s and 70s she continues to follow their example. As a proud advocate for her people, she follows in her father’s footsteps and aims to make a positive contribution. She has more than 20 years’ experience, working for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous organisations in NSW and QLD, including but not limited to, the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), the Salvation Army Employment Plus, Busy at Work, the Child Support Agency, the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH), and Brisbane Indigenous Media Association. Mundanara won the Indigenous Businesswoman of the year at the Supply Nations Supplier Diversity Awards 2023. Mundanara is the host of the award winning podcast, Black Magic Woman which is the first indigenous podcast to join the iHeart network. Mundanara has been recognised internationally for her teaching & learning skills as an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA) in the United Kingdom, and has formal qualifications in the disciplines of media, business, assessment and training. Mundanara is on several committees and boards, including but not limited to, the Aboriginal & Islander Independent Community School also known as The Murri School; Philanthropy Australia’s First Nations Governance Committee; Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) advisor for AGL; Founding Director of The Land Back Foundation, Founder of Deadly Futures Indigenous Corperation, Visiting fellow of QUT’s Learning and Teaching Unit. Mundanara is currently studying a Masters of Indigenous Business Leadership at Monash University, with a podcast partnership with Monash Business School. Mundanara is the Managing Director/ Co-Founder and workshop facilitator of the BlackCard Pty Ltd, which is a 100% Aboriginal owned business certified with Supply Nation. Mundanara co-founded BlackCard with Dr Lilla Watson, who is a respected Aboriginal elder, artist, educator and long-time course developer. BlackCard is a specialist consultancy providing cultural capability training and consultancy services to enable people and organisations to work effectively with members of the Aboriginal community. BlackCard’s purpose is working with people, not for people, with the genius of Aboriginal Knowledge.
Yarraka descends from the Wonnarua and Bundjalung nations of NSW on her mother’s side and the Birri Gubba and Gungalu nations of QLD on her fathers side. She was born on Gadigal country in Sydney and grew up in Redfern in the 80’s then moved to Brisbane in the early 90’s where she now resides with her 3 children and grand daughter who were all born on Yuggera country in South Brisbane. Yarraka has over 20 years experience working in both Indigenous and non Indigenous organisations throughout NSW and QLD and has won awards for her art and media achievements. With an immense passion for education, Yarraka enjoys working with children and imparting knowledge on to the next generation, having worked for Brisbane Catholic Education and delivering cultural workshops at numerous schools and child care centres around South East Queensland.
Proud Nucoorilma, Anaiwan, and Dunghutti man | Kinship carer | Storyteller | Social Entrepreneur Embracing Change, Igniting Impact. As a dedicated advocate for social change and First Nations empowerment, I bring a rich blend of heritage, passion, and expertise to my journey. Born and raised on Dharug Country, I’m privileged to raise my family on land that holds deep significance. A Journey of Empowerment. With a deep-rooted commitment to storytelling, collaboration, and facilitation, I’m focused on propelling positive transformation. My expertise lies in promoting First Nations economic development, circular economics, stakeholder engagement, and innovative program development. I’ve been honored to serve as Chairperson of Gadigal Information Service and Deputy Chairman of Sydney Metro Aboriginal Council, reflecting my dedication to community leadership. Championing Diversity and Inclusion. As the founder, director, and former volunteer CEO of BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation, I’ve worked to amplify the voices of the NSW Aboriginal LGBTQ+ community. My Master of Business in Indigenous Business Leadership equips me with the tools to empower individuals and organizations, fostering a brighter future for Aboriginal people through a deep understanding of culture. Shaping a Bridge of Understanding. As the founder and director of YarnnUp, I’m passionate about bridging gaps and building bridges of understanding between First Nations Australians and the wider community. Blending neuroscience, Aboriginal philosophy, and ancient knowledge, we empower organizations with cultural capability and strategies that echo with authenticity and impact. Join me on this journey of empowerment, collaboration, and positive change. Let’s weave the tapestry of heritage and innovation to create a brighter tomorrow. #EmpowerChange #CulturalBridge
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