In the realm of philanthropic giving, traditional grant-making models often fall short of truly empowering grassroots initiatives. However, a new approach is emerging, one that prioritises First Nations self-determination and amplifies the voices of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders across the country.
The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) is joining these leaders in rethinking the way we give, seeking to remove barriers when applying for funding through a supported application process, one-on-one mentoring and opportunities to engage in skills building workshops throughout the year. This approach is fundamental to FYA’s First Nations program, Seeding Strength, which not only provides support beyond the funding but also invests in the long term sustainability of the projects and people.
Since 2022, Seeding Strength has redistributed $650,000 to youth-led First Nations movements, campaigns and projects. One such project is run by the Dhadjowa Foundation.
The Dhadjowa Foundation (Dhadjowa) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation run by young community leaders, dedicated to providing strategic and culturally appropriate support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families affected by deaths in custody. Governed by families whose loved ones have died in custody, Dhadjowa relies on fundraising, philanthropy, and grants to deliver peer support, financial assistance, and campaign capacity building.
Dhadjowa is seeing a direct impact on the ground. Their work has enabled families to attend inquests, such as that of Kumanjayi’s, who died in Northern Territory police custody in 2019. Kumanjayi’s family travelled hundreds of kilometres from their homelands to Alice Springs to attend the inquest and were provided meals and accommodation. Importantly, Kumanjayi’s family could be present together, surrounded by their support network, as they navigated the legal proceedings.
Organisations like Dhadjowa receive support from experts in FYA’s First Nations Team, providing capacity for forward planning and mentorship. The program also aims to work with grantees to embed and increase monitoring and evaluation skills, helping to build the evidence base of their work and secure ongoing sustainable funding for long term change.
Third Link’s Impact
Third Link’s financial contribution has enabled FYA not only to provide much needed financial support to young people making a difference in their community, but also to deliver the essential wrap-around support to ensure their ongoing success.
Third Link’s generous $300,000 commitment over 2021-2023 was further bolstered by a potential $450,000 in matching funds. This incentivised FYA to secure two additional $450,000 unrestricted grants, significantly amplifying the overall impact.
In 2024, Third Link committed to an additional three year $300,000 to further amplify FYA’s work. This will enable FYA to support over 4,000 young people across the country, building their skills and capacity to deliver their vision for the future. Throughout 2024, FYA worked across 10 programs, and provided direct support for 24 campaigns and organisations.
The partnership between FYA and Third Link is a powerful example of how philanthropy can drive meaningful social change. By providing significant funding, Third Link has enabled FYA to expand its reach and impact.
To find out more about the Seeding Strength program, or discuss any aspect of how FYA and Third Link are working together to back young people across the country, contact FYA Development Manager Helen Mayers at helen.mayers@fya.org.au.
