Partnering to create greater opportunities

The Waalitj Foundation and the West Coast Eagles Football Club are working together to empower First Nations Australians through creating opportunities for people to thrive.  

The importance of National Reconciliation Week is shared amongst the Club and Foundation in recognising the responsibility of all Australians in reaching reconciliation. Guided by First Nations culture, history and experiences the team embodies this year’s theme ‘Be Brave. Make Change.’

The Waalitj Foundation is a leading force in strengthening First Nations communities through education, employment, and business across Australia. The Foundation’s programs are proudly delivered by 136 staff, 82% of which are First Nation’s Australians.

Whadjuk Noongar Boodja is their base. Nested with the West Coast Eagles Football Club at Mineral Resources Park, the Foundation is proud to identify with their founding organisation. Waalitj represents this connection and the deep appreciation to Whadjuk Noongar and the place of the Foundation’s birth.

Creating intergenerational change and developing the next generation of First Nations leaders is a key focus for all 17 of the Foundation’s programs, including their flagship education program, Deadly Sista Girlz.

Delivered by 100% First Nations women, Deadly Sista Girlz improves the engagement and school attendance of First Nations girls in 17 schools across Western Australia and Victoria. Having reached over 4000 girls, the program supports students to develop confidence and pride in their First Nations culture, identity, and community.

Star West Coast Eagles midfielder and First Nations role model, Tim Kelly regularly attends DSG events, mentoring and inspiring students.

“The relationship between the West Coast Eagles and the Waalitj Foundation is extremely important in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for young First Nations People,” Kelly said today. “I see the difference through my involvement across both organisations and I’m proud of the impact this relationship is having.

“There is still a lot of work to do, but the impact it has is absolutely real.” 

Waalitj Foundation General Manager of Education, Carly Davis said that the DSG program reflects this years National Reconciliation Week theme ‘Be Brave. Make Change’ through developing the next generation of female leaders to confidently advocate for First Nation’s people.

“Our Deadly Sista Girlz are the voice of the future and as leaders we need to work to nurture their development.”

“We create an environment that fosters confidence and empowers participants to be active change makers in their community,” said Mrs Davis.