Joanne Nicholson is a proud Koori woman with deep family ties across Victoria and into New South Wales. Born and raised on her Wemba Wemba and Barapa Barapa homelands around the Kerang and Swan Hill regions, she carries a lifelong commitment to culture, community and self-determination.

Now based in Geelong, where she has lived for the past 18 years, Joanne has raised seven children to be strong in their identity, grounded in culture, and connected to community. Her leadership is deeply shaped by her responsibility to future generations.

A co-founder of Yilam — the business she established and ran alongside her daughter — Joanne brings experience in cultural governance, community development, and First Nations-led decision-making. She is currently focused on strengthening community governance on Barapa Barapa Country and supporting pathways for the Nation to be formally recognised.

As a Board Member at First Nations Legal and Research Services, Joanne brings cultural knowledge, lived experience, and a strong community voice grounded in her unwavering commitment to justice, recognition, and the empowerment of First Peoples.