The ACT Government has appointed three new members to the ACT Reconciliation Council, bringing a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives that will continue the Council's positive impact on reconciliation.
The new Council members are:
- Caitlin Figueiredo - 2024 ACT Young Australian of the Year and a human rights and social policy advocate.
- Natalija Bogojevic - Social worker and psychotherapist with 10 years' experience in health and case management roles in government and not for profit organisations.
- Ravi Krishnamurthy - Proudly involved in the Australian Multicultural Action Network (AMAN), Community Languages Network, Australian Tamil Cultural Society (ATCS), Rajasthan Sabha of Australia and New Zealand and Tamil Sangam of Canberra.
The trio will take up their positions on the Council from 1 September 2024.
Returning Co-Chair Selina Walker said that the new Council will continue to drive impactful and meaningful Reconciliation in the ACT.
"I am looking forward to working with the new Council members and continuing this journey to further strengthen true Reconciliation," said Ms Walker.
"Being a Council member has given me the opportunity to progress Reconciliation in the ACT, learn from my fellow Council members and engage more community members in this human rights movement."
The ACT Reconciliation Council plays a pivotal role in promoting reconciliation across Canberra. It acts as a bridge between the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the broader Canberra community, fostering understanding, respect, and collaboration.
"Reconciliation is a continual process of renewal and understanding," said Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel Stephen-Smith.
"The ACT Reconciliation Council is crucial in supporting this journey, ensuring the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are heard and respected. The Council's work benefits the entire community by fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society."
A key function of the council is to champion community conversations about reconciliation, promoting awareness and understanding of First Nations histories and cultures.
The Council also helps develop and coordinate events for Reconciliation Day and other significant occasions, acting as community ambassadors.
"Our new Reconciliation Council members bring a diverse range of skills and experience and I look forward to working with them to continue to promote reconciliation across the broader community," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"The Council looks for a diverse mix of people, including non-Indigenous and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Canberrans from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are passionate about reconciliation were particularly encouraged to apply."
The new members will join co-chairs Selina Walker and Emeritus Professor Richard Baker, and existing members Coralie McAlister, Jodie Stephenson, Jocelyn Abbott and Leo Bator overseeing preparations for the next Reconciliation Day on 27 May 2025.
"With these appointments the ACT Reconciliation Council is well-positioned to continue its vital work. These new members bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and passion that will undoubtedly contribute to the Council's mission of promoting reconciliation and fostering a more inclusive Canberra," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Council co-chair Emeritus Professor Richard Baker said he was delighted to have such a strong group of new members joining the Council.
"I know the new members will bring fresh ideas to the Council on how we can encourage deeper community conversations around reconciliation," he said.
