The 2025 Perth Mr NAIDOC finalists are four inspiring Aboriginal men whose stories of culture, resilience, and leadership are lighting the way for the next generation.
Laurence Fewster-Williams is a proud Goreng Noongar man from Gnowangerup in WA's Great Southern region, carrying a strong connection to culture and country that shapes his identity and belonging. Passionate about learning and self-development, he strives every day to grow and lead. For Mr Fewster-Williams, leadership means paving the way for others, lifting people up, and helping them overcome barriers within themselves. He is committed to empowering community and creating spaces for healing and strength.
Joining the Mr NAIDOC Program has been a significant step in his journey, offering new opportunities to learn, connect, and strengthen his identity as a young Aboriginal man. He looks forward to continuing this path, with more chances to grow and give back.
Proud Ewamian and Kuku Yalanji man Bronson Gugubi Richards moved from the rainforest in Cairns to Perth at 14 seeking better opportunities. After school, he built a modelling career and launched his clothing label, Visions of Tomorrow, sharing his story and promoting sustainability. His brand uses recycled materials, supports youth services, and plants trees, reflecting his belief in purpose and progress.
Alongside helping his father establish Junbum Resources to create jobs for mob, he's passionate about land management, heritage, and self-development. Mr Richards joined the Mr NAIDOC Program to connect with the Noongar community and grow as a leader. This year's NAIDOC theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," mirrors his mission to inspire and leave a lasting legacy.
Noongar Goreng man from Albany, Jaden Marsh, grew up on Menang Boodja surrounded by strong cultural role models and guided by local Elders who shaped his identity. Their influence nurtured his understanding of culture, history, and the importance of carrying that knowledge forward. After high school, Mr Marsh moved to Boorloo (Perth), where he pursued his passions for fashion, cars, and art—creative outlets that help him stay connected to culture. He began working with Woolworths, rising to a management role and joining the Reconciliation Action Plan Committee to help drive positive change for mob.
Committed to supporting Aboriginal youth and breaking cycles of disadvantage, he believes connection to culture and community is key. He hopes to create safe spaces where young people feel proud and strong. Mr Marsh joined the Mr NAIDOC Program to grow as a leader, strengthen his identity, and connect with others who share his vision for change.
Brian Pickett is a Noongar man, born and raised on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. One of ten siblings, the third oldest and eldest boy, he grew up surrounded by laughs, footy, camping, fishing, and strong family bonds. After graduating from Coodanup College, he began an Aboriginal traineeship and spent over six years in government administration.
In 2016, Mr Pickett made the brave decision to come out as gay, drawing strength from the support of his Aunty, Uncle, and cousins. In 2019, he met his now-husband Tim, and together they became full-time carers for his baby cousin, James.
He eventually returned to work with the Aboriginal Health Team and now supports young people as an Aboriginal Mental Health Worker with CAMHS in Mandurah. Brian is a passionate advocate for keeping kids connected to culture, mob, and community. For him, the highlight is seeing young ones light up when they recognise a familiar face—someone who understands and walks alongside them.
This year's NAIDOC theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," speaks directly to his journey. By sharing his story and stepping into the Mr NAIDOC 2025 Program, Mr Pickett hopes to inspire the next generation to walk strong, feel proud, and build a future our Elders would be proud of.
Perth-based Miss NAIDOC program was founded in 2010 by Glenda Kickett and Shannon McGuire, it has been amplifying the voices of young Indigenous women for more than a decade through a six-week empowerment and leadership program. In 2022, the Mr NAIDOC program was introduced to offer the same opportunity for growth and experience to young Indigenous men.