Helping young Indigenous people achieve their goals

We believe that education is the key to closing the gap—which is why we’re striving to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people get the best chance at year 12 attainment.

Jeff Hardy

Director - Schools

A proud Ualaroi, Gamiliraay man, Jeff weaves knowledge and wisdom of Aboriginal culture with his own lived experience. Jeff gives insights and practical tools that will enhance individual well being.

Jeff instils the importance of connection and belonging and will embed these aspirations in our school network. Jeff played a pivotal role for the highly successful Clontarf Foundation, which exists to improve the life outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men.

Jeff is also a former school teacher, coach and professional Rugby League player having played for the St.George Illawarra Dragons in the NRL and in the UK for 15 seasons.

A loving husband and father of four, Jeff has had his own unique challenges raising a severely autistic son.

Jeff is also a mentor for The Change Room – a program that uniquely inspires the everyday person to elevate their wellbeing. Jeff inspires people and audiences by passing on some of the wisdom and knowledge from his culture that enabled Indigenous Australians to live in harmony with the land for tens of thousands of years. These timeless practices have stood the test of time and are sure to have an impact to those who want to listen.

Angus Crichton

Founding Director

Macia Ella-Duncan OAM

Foundation Board Member

Glen Ella

Founding Director - Pathways Careers Trade Training

John Dyball OAM

Founding Director

Mark Ella AM

Foundation Board Member

Gary Ella

Foundation Board Member

Gyan Ainkaran

Managing Director

Theresa Ardler

Director - Academic and Tertiary

Nicho Hynes

Leader & Mentor

Cody Walker

Leader & Mentor

Dylan Farrell

Director - Mentoring

Jonny Samengo

Board Member

Dave Rawlings

Get Involved

Find out how you can help

Join us at the First People Project, where every contribution ignites change. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or supporting our programs, your involvement directly empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. Together, we can lift spirits and change lives. Get involved today and be part of creating a brighter future.

Are you a company or organisation? Learn about more ways to help.