This year, we celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week — a powerful milestone in the journey of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” shines a light on the achievements of the past and the promise of the future, led by young leaders who carry the spirit of their ancestors and the hopes of their communities.

 

Spotlight on Alyce Jerrad: Dhurranmay-Gal Dhirrabuu (Outstanding Leader)

Among the many inspiring voices across the country, Alyce Jerrad stands tall. At just 21, Alyce has been named a recipient of the Dhurranmay-Gal Dhirrabuu (Outstanding Leaders) award — a recognition of her fierce advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to her mob in Tamworth. She is committed to paving the way for the younger Indigenous generations.

Alyce is a Dispensary Technician at the Tamworth Discount Drug Store (DDS) and has recently enrolled in pharmacy studies at UNE. Her journey into healthcare was inspired by her manager and mentor, Lia Mahony – Sigma Chief Pharmacist and owner of Tamworth DDS, who helped her see that a future in pharmacy was not only possible but powerful.

Alyce said, “She helped me see that this future is possible for me and other Indigenous kids. Being someone in the community that people can be comfortable around and actually want to have a yarn and ask questions makes me feel like I’m doing a lot — even though it’s probably something so little.”

Building Bridges in Healthcare

Alyce’s pharmacy work is grounded in cultural understanding and empathy. She believes that the first interaction in healthcare is crucial — that being welcoming, patient, and open to conversation can make all the difference. She shares that the way Aboriginal people talk is not how non-Indigenous people talk.

“We have our own sayings, you know, so being a bit more understanding and being able to have time and one-on-one conversations with us is beneficial and builds a little bridge.”

She also highlights that pharmacists need to be aware not only of the way they talk and language they use, but also what might be common knowledge to non-Indigenous people may not be to them.  Creating a safe space where Indigenous patients feel seen and heard, understanding barriers like transport and the cost of medications or services, and the importance of involving elders in consultations to build trust are key things to help break down some of the barriers Aboriginal people may face when seeking healthcare.

“Old fullas don’t like hospitals. Reassuring them that it’s okay to ask for help and sending them home with information — that helps.”

A Voice for the Next Generation

Alyce’s impact goes beyond her workplace. She’s a role model for Aboriginal youth, showing them that their voices matter and their dreams are valid.

“Show you are there to help them and to be better. Tell them stories about you — because for some reason they don’t ever think you were their age once.”

Her most rewarding moments come from the connections she’s built — especially with elders who tell her, “We need more of this.” That support, she says, makes up for the ones who don’t see her.

Looking Forward

Alyce Jerrad embodies the spirit of NAIDOC Week 2025. She is strength in the face of adversity, vision for a better future, and legacy carried forward with pride and purpose.

As we celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week, we honour leaders like Alyce — who are not only paving the way for the next generation but are already shaping it with courage, care, and conviction.

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