NAB Foundation announces first recipients of First Nations Futures Scholarships

4 November 2026
NAB Foundation 

• Scholarships awarded to nine First Nations students. 

• Program provides financial support, mentoring, internships and career development opportunities 

• Initiative supports First Nations education, career pathways and future leadership 

NAB Foundation has announced the recipients of its inaugural First Nations Futures Scholarship Program, designed to support the next generation of First Nations business leaders. 

The cohort includes: Alex Baker (Queensland University of Technology), Gus McCartney (Deakin University), Indianna Britt (The University of Newcastle), Mikayla B (University of Melbourne), Sophie Crossman (Queensland University of Technology) and Tannah Shehan (Curtin University), Olivia H (The University of NSW), Courtney D (Queensland University of Technology) and Isabella O (University of Technology Sydney). 

The scholarships are delivered by the University of Melbourne, Deakin University, the University of Newcastle, QUT, Curtin University and Yalari. Recipients receive financial assistance and can access optional mentoring, internship pathways and career-development support through NAB. 

The initiative builds on NAB Foundation’s commitment to First Nations economic empowerment and aligns with NAB’s Reconciliation Action Plan.  

NAB Head of First Nations Affairs, Sam Webster, said the scholarships were an investment in the next generation of First Nations leaders. 

 “Each recipient brings their own strengths, aspirations and potential. We’re proud to support them as they take the next step in their education and look forward to seeing the contribution they’ll make to their communities, industries and the Australian economy,” Ms Webster said. 

“When First Nations people have the opportunity to pursue their aspirations, they create opportunities that can be built on and passed on, strengthening families, growing businesses and creating lasting prosperity for future generations.” 

Professor Barry Judd, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) at the University of Melbourne, said he welcomed NAB Foundation’s long-term support for First Nations students. 

  “Financial barriers can make higher education feel out of reach for many First Nations students,” Professor Judd said. 

 “This scholarship helps reduce those barriers, while connecting students with the practical, cultural and academic support they need to pursue their studies and succeed on their own terms.” 

 “We are proud to partner with NAB Foundation to support First Nations students as they build their futures in business and contribute their knowledge and leadership to their communities and chosen fields.” 

University of Melbourne scholarship recipient Mikayla B said the support has eased the financial pressure of studying full-time. 

“Receiving this scholarship has made a meaningful difference to both my university experience and my future career. I'm incredibly grateful for the support, which has allowed me to focus more fully on my studies and opportunities outside the classroom." 

“As a first-year commerce student, the scholarship has enabled me to dedicate more time to my studies instead of worrying about the financial burdens like study materials and living costs, especially at college.”  

“Rather than trying to balance additional work hours to cover these expenses, I have been able to invest more time in my lectures, tutorials and extracurriculars.” 

 The First Nations Futures Scholarship Program is one of several initiatives delivered by NAB Foundation and NAB to support First Nations participation in education, employment and business. 

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The NAB Foundation is a registered charity supporting social and environmental outcomes across Australian communities. 

• The First Nations Futures Scholarship Program supports nine First Nations students, including six recipients through partnerships with five Australian universities and three recipients supported through Yalari. 

• Partner universities include the University of Melbourne, Deakin University, the University of Newcastle, QUT and Curtin University. 

• The program aligns with NAB’s broader commitment to First Nations economic empowerment.