About Us

First People Project is here to change the way Indigenous people see and experience their future through education, knowledge, opportunity and experience.

Our Foundation

The First People Project and Ellavation are built on the dedication and expertise of individuals who have dedicated their lives to uplifting First Nation’s People. With decades of experience in academic mentoring, scholarships, trade training, and career development, our team is committed to creating opportunities and fostering change.

The Challenge

100%

To play a significant role in the lives of our 'scholars' and ensure that 100% of our indigenous young people attain Year 12 or an equivalent qualification.

First People Project provides a mentoring program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys and girls at boarding school.

First Nations students are partnered with a mentor one-on-one. Our mentors come from a range of backgrounds, but are all interested in volunteering their time to assist these boys and girls navigate the challenges of high-school and young-adult life.

The purpose of this mentoring program is to build friendships and create a strong understanding of each of the students. Then, by the time they graduate, as a Charity, we can use our resources and network to make their time transitioning from school to work, study or whatever it may be, as seamless as possible.

As far as we are concerned, these relationships are for life.

Our Mission

Our goal is to nurture growth in all life aspects, enabling them to contribute to our country's social, political, cultural, and economic well-being.

Together with our partners from the sporting, educational, academic, cultural, business, and trade sectors, First People Project and Ellavation deliver significant opportunities for First Nations youth to flourish. Our collaboration aims to empower these young individuals to contribute meaningfully to the social, political, cultural, and economic fabric of our great country, both now and in the future.

Our Impact

Investing in learning potential to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to achieve their goals and flourish.

Contributions to Social Justice

Every team member actively contributes to social justice and community projects. Cody Walker, Nicho Hynes, and Angus Crichton were finalists for the 2022 Ken Stephen Medal – Man of the Year, highlighting their exceptional work in community initiatives.

A Partnership with Purpose

Joining forces with the Ella family, we leverage unparalleled experience in education, employment, and mentoring. This collaboration strengthens our ability to make generational changes and contribute to ‘closing the gap’ for First Nations youth.

Leadership and Vision

Our team bring lived experience and a deep understanding of First Nation's youth aspirations. Their journeys from dreams to reality are at the heart of our mission.

Angus Crichton, the founding director of First People Project, collaborates closely with Nicho Hynes and Cody Walker. Together, they have partnered with the Ella family, one of the most esteemed First Nation’s families, to form Australia’s most formidable team. Their collective dream is to ‘lift spirits, change lives’ through empowerment and opportunity.