Fostering Resilience and Change: Jake Louthean’s Journey to Empower Indigenous Youth

2021 Westpac Future Leaders Scholar, Jake Louthean, a proud Noongar man, hails from Menang Country and has been a beacon of hope in his community, particularly among the youth. His educational journey culminated in a Master of Social Policy from the University of Melbourne, a stepping stone he used to further his dedication as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Officer in Albany, Western Australia. 

His story is not just about academic achievement; it’s about overcoming personal and cultural challenges. Raised by a single non-Indigenous mother, Jake faced complex issues surrounding his cultural identity from a young age. His family’s past left him with many unanswered questions about his heritage. However, Jake’s determination to reconnect with his roots led him to forge strong bonds with his Elders and community, deepening his understanding and appreciation of his Noongar heritage. 

“In connecting with the community, I learnt very quickly that I come from some of the most resilient cultures and peoples in the history of humanity. I come from peoples who are proud and brilliant, who are community-focussed and who care deeply for nature and Country,” Jake said.  

“What was ever present, was a great pride everyone had in my family history and an acceptance from the Indigenous community around me. Not once did I feel that I was the odd one out, I was wholeheartedly embraced,” he adds.  

These experiences fuelled his passion to ensure that Indigenous youth do not feel disconnected from their culture. Through his role, Jake is not just an educator but a vital link between the past and future, helping young Indigenous students find their place in both their cultural world and the wider society. His work, empowered by the support of the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, aims at creating educational pathways that are culturally inclusive and supportive. 

In discussing his journey and vision, Jake emphasises the power of education to transform lives. He envisions a future where Indigenous youth can pursue their dreams with the full backing of a community that understands the value of their cultural heritage. Jake’s story is a testament to the resilience and transformative power of education as a tool for cultural affirmation and social change. 

“I’m unwavering in my desire to help empower Indigenous youth in finding their place, in developing their own identities, and I understand that education is the key, perhaps just not as the Western world sees it.”  

Driven by a profound sense of responsibility to his community, Jake embarked on a career aimed at strengthening the bonds within it. His positive reception by the people on Menang Country deeply influenced his decision to focus on contributing positively to his community. Starting his professional journey with the Department of Education in Albany, Western Australia, Jake took up the role of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Officer. 

In his role, Jake encountered the systemic issues that often hinder the educational progress of Indigenous students. Observing the disparities and the cultural disconnection within the school environment, he became committed to creating initiatives that addressed these challenges directly. His ambition was not only to bridge the educational gaps but also to influence broader policy changes that could benefit First Nations communities. 

Realising his desire for a deeper understanding and more comprehensive strategies, Jake pursued a Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship. His goal was to enhance his capacity to make a difference through further education, leading him to undertake a Master of Social Policy at the University of Melbourne. This academic pursuit was driven by his aspiration to develop innovative solutions that would uplift his community and ensure that future generations of Indigenous students could thrive within and beyond their educational environments. 

“Interestingly, as I’ve worked through my master’s degree, I’ve found myself questioning all the ‘solutions’ that I initially thought I had. It’s really challenged me to think beyond accepted constructs, to question convention and explore alternative ways.”  

“The scholarship has allowed me the time and space to fully immerse myself in this realm of thought. To step away from my role as an educator and to question even my most foundational beliefs,” Jake said.  

The Leadership Development Residential, a key component of the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, has been instrumental in shaping Jake’s role as an emergent leader. This experience not only bolstered his leadership foundation but also fostered enduring friendships and provided him with valuable moments for reflection on his personal and professional journey. 

Jake acknowledges that his educational quest has surfaced more questions than answers, suggesting a complex, ongoing process of discovery and understanding. The depth of the scholarship program has encouraged him to delve into these complexities, confident that this exploration will eventually clear the path for innovative strategies and solutions. 

Jake’s resolve remains firm: to enable Indigenous youth to forge their identities and find their places in the world, guided by a broader, perhaps non-traditional view of education. He emphasizes the importance of other First Nations students taking advantage of opportunities like the Westpac scholarship. 

“I know it’s easy to look at the resumes of past scholars and marvel at just how accomplished they all are – I know I certainly felt this way. However, it’s important to remember to believe in yourself and your vision and trust that the ideas you have are worthy of funding and support.” 

He also expressed how important it is to come as you are.  

“Be willing to show your true colours. Be willing to open up and expose your heart and soul to the selectors.”

“Westpac aren’t looking for people who can write a killer application or people with perfect academic resumes. They are looking for people who are genuinely interested in something bigger than themselves, people who are willing to be vulnerable and honest and true. They aren’t looking for perfect, because no true leader is perfect.”  

Register your interest for a Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship and find out how you could receive up to $120,000 to support your studies or research at one of nine universities across Australia while gaining access to bespoke leadership and mentoring opportunities.  

If you’d like to learn more from Jake about his experiences or are looking for advice on the scholarship application process, connect with him on LinkedIn.