All In for Reconciliation: Inspiring the Next Generation
of Leaders

As part of National Reconciliation Week 2026, Jade Akamarre (Jade Torres) was invited to speak to Middle school and Senior school students at St Peter's Girls' School, sharing her personal journey as a proud Alyawarre woman, fourth-generation artist, business owner and cultural advocate. The presentation explored this year's theme, All In for Reconciliation, through the lens of lived experience, identity, leadership and the responsibility we all share in creating a more respectful and connected future.

Drawing from her upbringing between remote Aboriginal communities and contemporary business environments, Jade spoke about navigating two worlds, the importance of cultural identity, overcoming adversity and the lessons she has learned building an internationally recognised Aboriginal-owned business.

Supported by a visual presentation featuring imagery and video from both her cultural and professional journey, students were given a rare insight into the realities of balancing community, culture and family obligations alongside private schooling, entrepreneurship, corporate partnerships and global opportunities. Through storytelling, personal reflections and cultural insight, students were encouraged to think critically about reconciliation, belonging, resilience and the impact of their everyday actions.

A passionate advocate for youth engagement, Jade believes that creating opportunities for young people to ask questions, challenge assumptions and learn from lived experiences is one of the most powerful ways to build understanding and meaningful change. Her presentations are designed to be honest, relatable and inspiring, encouraging students to embrace their own individuality, find confidence in who they are and recognise the value of becoming active allies and future leaders.

While deeply grounded in Aboriginal culture and family legacy, Jade's message extends beyond cultural education. As a young female entrepreneur who has experienced both significant successes and challenges throughout her career, she shares practical insights on perseverance, leadership, self belief and the realities of building a purpose driven career. Her presentations aim to leave audiences feeling empowered to step forward with greater confidence, curiosity and compassion, regardless of their background.

Following the presentation, staff praised Jade's ability to connect this year's National Reconciliation Week theme, All In, with both historical context and the everyday experiences of young people. Educators highlighted the lasting impact of hearing directly from a contemporary Aboriginal woman navigating culture, business and leadership, noting that the session encouraged students not only to deepen their understanding of reconciliation but to consider the actions they can take to contribute to it. The presentation left students with a greater appreciation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives while demonstrating the importance of resilience, representation and authentic leadership.

Jade is available for keynote presentations, school engagements, leadership forums, corporate events and cultural education programs tailored to a range of audiences.