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Dr Hope O’Chin AM (Aunty Hope) is a proud Kabi Kabi, Wakka Wakka, Koa and Kuku Yalanji Elder, academic, artist, educator and author whose life’s work brings together cultural knowledge, intellectual inquiry and community connection.

Born in Cherbourg, Aunty Hope has dedicated decades to First Nations education, holding roles across teaching, senior education leadership and higher education. Her contribution extends through research, public speaking, published writing and more than 40 exhibitions as a solo and contributing artist.

Aunty Hope’s scholarship explores belonging, Country, identity and First Nations knowledge systems. Her book, An Epistemology of Belongingness: Dreaming a First Nation’s Ontology of Hope, draws together her academic thinking, cultural knowledge and lived experience.

Her work continues through the Hope Dreaming Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering communities through culture, education and connection. The Foundation supports young people, families, artists and organisations, carrying forward Aunty Hope’s commitment to sharing knowledge and creating opportunities across generations.

In 2026, Aunty Hope was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the Indigenous community as an artist and educator.

Join host Carly Forrest in conversation with Aunty Hope, honouring her personal journey, scholarship and enduring contribution to generations of learners, artists and communities.

This podcast was funded by a grant from Noosa MP Sandy Bolton to Noosa First Nations Allies Inc as part of their ongoing commitment to supporting First Nations culture.

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Thank you to Shannan Bishop, a proud Gunggari Artist and Graphic Designer, who also has connections to Wakka Wakka and Kabi Kabi, for designing The Dreaming Collective's Podcast Artwork. Shannan's art depicts our host, Carly Forrest's journey of bringing the podcast to life and shows the coming together of freshwater and saltwater ~ red dirt and sand with the sharing of our storylines connecting us all and preserving these yarns for future generations.

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In this special live episode of The Dreaming Collective Podcast, recorded at the Sunshine Coast Council Flag Raising Ceremony for NAIDOC 2025, host Carly Forrest sits down – spontaneously and unscripted – with a group of deadly young voices who embody this year’s theme: “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.”

Hear from Halea Eggmolesse, Alexis Boyd, Marley Fitzpatrick, Layla Havana, and Amelia Hughes as they reflect on culture, identity, leadership, and what NAIDOC means to them. These powerful, unfiltered yarns are a reminder of why investing in and listening to our youth is not only a responsibility — it’s a legacy.

This episode is a celebration of the future – bold, bright, and Blak.

Recorded live on Kabi Kabi Country. Always was, always will be.

We acknowledge Sunshine Coast Council for sponsoring this podcast episode.

Support the show

Thank you to Shannan Bishop, a proud Gunggari Artist and Graphic Designer, who also has connections to Wakka Wakka and Kabi Kabi, for designing The Dreaming Collective's Podcast Artwork. Shannan's art depicts our host, Carly Forrest's journey of bringing the podcast to life and shows the coming together of freshwater and saltwater ~ red dirt and sand with the sharing of our storylines connecting us all and preserving these yarns for future generations.

Send us Fan Mail

Milisont Siai Rose Sailor is a proud First Nations Torres Strait Islander woman, descended from the Erubam Le and Meriam Le peoples of Zenadh Kes, with a rich cultural heritage that also includes strong Celtic and Polish roots. A multi-talented artist and freelance model, Milisont has been captivating audiences and clients with her versatility and passion since the age of 13. Her career began with a landmark opportunity, modelling at the 2011 Deadly Awards at the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Beyond modelling, Milisont is a creative force with a love for dancing, singing, playing guitar, writing, and content creation. She brings her unique perspective and vibrant cultural identity into everything she does, blending storytelling with artistry. Milisont continues to celebrate her heritage and inspire others to embrace their own identity with pride and authenticity.

In this episode, Milisont shares her inspiring journey of reconnecting with her Torres Strait Islander culture. She discussed the challenges of navigating her identity and the taboos around women's business in her community. Millie speaks passionately about her efforts to uncover and revive traditional women's practices, as well as her plans to study her mother tongue to preserve the language. She emphasised the importance of celebrating and empowering women in cultural spaces, and creating resources to bridge traditional knowledge with modern freedom. Throughout the conversation, Millie highlights the need for community healing, ancestral wisdom, and passing on a strong cultural foundation to the next generation. Her authenticity and determination to honour her roots while evolving with the times is truly inspiring.

*Content warning some explicit language and sensitive topics of a mature nature discussed. Listener discretion advised*

Support the show

Thank you to Shannan Bishop, a proud Gunggari Artist and Graphic Designer, who also has connections to Wakka Wakka and Kabi Kabi, for designing The Dreaming Collective's Podcast Artwork. Shannan's art depicts our host, Carly Forrest's journey of bringing the podcast to life and shows the coming together of freshwater and saltwater ~ red dirt and sand with the sharing of our storylines connecting us all and preserving these yarns for future generations.