Melbourne Storm’s Nanjera Pender delivered an emotional and powerful speech after being awarded the prestigious Leader of the Year Award at the NRL School to Work Student Awards on November 28, 2024, in Sydney. The award recognized her outstanding leadership, advocacy for Aboriginal rights, and her commitment to sharing cultural knowledge with her school community.
In her heartfelt acceptance, Nanjera, a proud GanaiKurnai/Wurundjeri student, paid tribute to her Elders and Ancestors, speaking in her native Woiwurrung language. She acknowledged their pivotal role in preserving her culture and language, dedicating her award to them as a symbol of respect and gratitude.
Nanjera also took a moment to express her deep appreciation to the Melbourne Storm, the club that has supported her journey and provided a platform for her to showcase her talents. She reflected on her journey with the Storm, from performing with her dance group, Djirri Djirri, at home games to speaking out for Aboriginal rights at the club’s Indigenous Round and on the steps of Parliament.
“Melbourne Storm has been a family to me,” Nanjera said. “They’ve not only given me a chance to represent my culture on a larger stage but have also supported my growth as a leader. This award is as much theirs as it is mine.”
Nanjera’s speech resonated deeply with the audience, encouraging her peers and fellow nominees to continue striving for excellence and to lead with pride in their heritage. Her words were a reminder that leadership is not just about personal achievement but about uplifting others and making a meaningful impact on the community.
Her dedication to her culture and community, along with her unwavering advocacy for Indigenous rights, has made Nanjera an inspiration to all. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, her message was clear: to lead with strength, to honour the past, and to inspire future generations.
