Last month, 13 Talent Pool participants from across the state travelled to Perth for the Danjoo Koorliny Djilba Summit 2025 on 5-6 August.

Representing Port Hedland, Kununurra, Newman and Kalgoorlie, the young leaders spent several days together exploring Perth and taking part in a packed program of activities. For many, it was the first time meeting Talent Pool members from other regions face-to-face, and it quickly turned into a chance to build friendships and swap stories.

The group kicked off their trip with a visit to the University of Western Australia where they were welcomed by Danjoo Koorliny Manager Donna Oxenham and listened to a powerful storytelling session from respected Elder Noel Nannup. They returned the next day for the main event, joining the emerging youth hub and listening to inspiring speeches from community elders and emerging leaders.

The Talent Pool team spoke up about challenges in their regions, asked thoughtful questions, and sparked conversations that showed they’re ready to bring positive change back to their communities. The group’s confidence and willingness to step up left a lasting impression, with many participants commenting on their energy and insight. They quickly became the buzz of the summit!

The team’s busy schedule didn’t stop there. The next stop was the WA Museum and Art Gallery to explore the Terracotta Warriors exhibition, before stopping by the Royal Life Saving WA office for a swim at Perth HPC. They were also welcomed by BHP and WA Police, where they spoke with senior leaders about leadership in practice. To cap off their action-packed week, the team headed to Optus Stadium and had a turn on the zip line over Matagarup Bridge.

The 13 young leaders represented their communities with pride throughout their trip to Perth. The group included Matilda Thompson, Felix Lavaki, Timothy Jorda, Tyler Narrier, Emmanuel Nicholls and Kacee Nicholls from Port Hedland; Mary Davies and Zahra Sankoh from Kununurra; John Riddett and Blake Wilberforce from Newman; and Lincon Kearns, Jacob Perry and Bevan Simpson from Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie.

Senior Talent Pool Manager Tim Turner said he couldn’t have been prouder of the team. “I’ve been really surprised and inspired by how well these young people have stepped into leadership. They have done so well and impressed so many people, I am just super proud... This is the first leadership and legacy summit—we will move forward, and this will become an annual event for Royal Life Saving WA and our young people.”

For the Talent Pool members, this trip wasn’t only about attending a Summit. It was about finding their voices, learning from elders, and proving to themselves that they are capable of stepping into big conversations. They came away with new skills, new connections, and the confidence to carry those lessons back home to their own communities.

Enormous thank you to Royal Life Saving WA's Talent Pool leadership for organising and facilitating this trip! Opportunities like this wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of our community partner BHP and their ongoing support of the Talent Pool program.

We are also grateful for the support of Wunan Foundation, Maali Mechanicals, the Western Australia Police Force, the Centre for Social Impact (CSI) and Danjoo Koorliny for investing in the futures of these young people.

Learn more about the impact of the Talent Pool program below.