Empowering Change: The Inspirational Journey Of Isaiah Dawe, A Trailblazer In Indigenous Advocacy

In the heart of New South Wales, amidst the vibrant tapestry of Aboriginal cultures, a remarkable man named Isaiah Dawe emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for his community. A proud Butchulla and Garawa Aboriginal man, Isaiah’s journey is not just a testament to his resilience but also a shining example of how one individual can make a substantial impact on the lives of others.

From Adversity to Advocacy: A Personal Odyssey

Isaiah’s story begins with a moment of profound upheaval. At the tender age of 17, he found himself faced with homelessness; his foster carer informed him he could no longer stay. In the midst of this crisis, he faced the daunting challenge of completing his Higher School Certificate exams while grappling with the uncertainty of his living situation. This pivotal moment would later fuel his determination to create lasting change for others facing similar struggles.

The Birth of ID Know Yourself: Fostering Belonging, Purpose, and Positive Choices

Out of this adversity, Isaiah founded ID Know Yourself, a pioneering organisation offering personalised mentoring and support coordination to Aboriginal children and young people in contact with the Out of Home Care and Juvenile Justice system in New South Wales. With a vision to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma and disadvantage, Isaiah and his team at ID Know Yourself are dedicated to instilling a sense of belonging, helping individuals discover their purpose, and empowering them to make positive choices.

A Trailblazer in Indigenous Advocacy

Isaiah Dawe’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. He was recognised as a finalist in the 2019 NSW/ACT Channel 7 Young Achiever Awards and honoured as the 2017 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander TAFE NSW Student of the Year. His groundbreaking work has extended to the boardrooms of influential organisations; he became the first Indigenous person appointed as a Board Director of TAFE NSW. Moreover, he holds the prestigious position of Chair of the Aboriginal Advisory Council within TAFE NSW, where he continues to advocate for the rights and well-being of Indigenous communities. Additionally, he serves as an External Advisor to the Uber National RAP Leadership Committee at Uber, bringing his expertise and insights to a global platform.

Sailing Against the Wind: Challenging Boundaries

Isaiah Dawe’s journey of empowerment isn’t confined to boardrooms and classrooms; he has also dared to challenge physical boundaries. In an unprecedented feat, he became a member of the first Aboriginal team to participate in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and the Sydney to Gold Coast Yacht Race. This courageous endeavour symbolises his belief that limitations exist only in the mind and that every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

A Vision for the Future: Empowering Generations

At the core of Isaiah’s mission is the firm belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a chance to thrive. Through ID Know Yourself, he and his team emphasise the essential elements of culture, life skills, education, employment, and leadership. By imparting these invaluable tools, Isaiah Dawe is paving the way for a brighter future, not only for the individuals he directly impacts but for generations to come.

Recognised Excellence: NSW Young Australian of the Year and Sydney’s Inner West 30 Most Influential Under 30

Last year, Isaiah was recognised for his outstanding advocacy and support for Aboriginal children in the Out of Home Care system. He was a nominee for the NSW 2022 Young Australian of the Year and earned a place among Sydney’s Inner West 30 Most Influential People Under 30. These accolades stand as a testament to his dedication and the profound impact he continues to make through his not-for-profit mentoring organisation, ID Know Yourself.

In the words of Isaiah himself, “It doesn’t matter what you know; what matters is what you do.” His actions speak volumes, echoing through the lives of those he inspires and leading the way toward a more empowered, inclusive, and compassionate society. Isaiah Dawe’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual, regardless of their background.