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Australia’s pre-eminent First Nations arts and performance organisation, NAISDA, has announced a planned executive leadership transition, coinciding with its 50th anniversary.
The NAISDA Board said the transition marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s history and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
As part of the succession process, two of NAISDA’s long-serving leaders will conclude their executive appointments in November 2026.
NAISDA Chairperson Mayrah Sonter acknowledged the extraordinary contribution of Chief Executive Officer Kim Walker AM and Chief Operating Officer Debra Schleger, whose long-standing commitment has significantly shaped NAISDA’s growth and impact.
The transition has been planned as part of a long-term succession process.
Following the conclusion of their executive contracts, both leaders will continue in advisory and support roles for a further 12 months providing continuity and a smooth handover to new leadership.
“As we celebrate 50 years of achievement, we look ahead to the next 50 years with confidence and a clear commitment to our purpose. NAISDA would not be what it is today without the vision and dedication of Kim and Debra. We are deeplly grateful for their leadership and legacy and for their ongoing support as NAISDA moves through this important transition,” said Ms Sonter.
As part of the succession process, the Board has started to identify a new Chief Executive Officer to build on NAISDA’s strong foundations and lead the organisation’s cultural and strategic priorities.
A new appointment will ensure community, culture and First Nations self-determination remain central in NAISDA’s future.
Chief Executive Officer Kim Walker said the transition represented an exciting opportunity.
“NAISDA’s 50th anniversary felt like a natural and meaningful time to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership. As a NAISDA graduate, performer and CEO, this organisation will always hold a special place in my heart.
“It has been a privilege to support First Nations artists to learn, grow and share culture and story. I firmly believe in the power of arts education in shaping future First Nations creative and cultural leaders. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited for what comes next,” he said.
Chief Operating Officer Debra Schleger said the organisation’s greatest achievement has always been its people.
“Watching NAISDA students grow strong in confidence, culture and voice has been extraordinary. Our graduates are artists and changemakers shaping communities, companies and stages across Australia and around the world. This is the true measure of NAISDA’s success,” she said.
NAISDA expects to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer later in 2026. Future leadership will build on 50 years of impact, working in partnership with First Nations artists, Elders, Knowledge Holders and communities to create strong lives, vibrant communities and creative futures.
NAISDA is the leading First Nations performing arts training organisation creating and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowings and wisdom through excellence and innovation in dance and performing arts education to shape strong lives, vibrant communities, and creative futures.
NAISDA graduates are recognised nationally and internationally for their artistic excellence, cultural leadership and professional achievement.
Founded in 1976, it is a First Nations-led and governed organisation operating as a company limited by guarantee. It is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
The national organisation is based at Kariong, NSW and delivers an accredited curriculum that embeds the depth and diversity of Indigenous Knowings within a rigorous contemporary performing arts framework. NAISDA is a proud member of the Federal Government’s Arts8, the national collective representing Australia’s leading performing arts training organisations.
NAISDA receives lead funding from the Federal Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, with support from the NSW Department of Education (Smart and Skilled) and philanthropic, corporate and private partners.
