Plenary Keynote | Brenda Matthews: Walking Together
| Wednesday, June 11, 2025 |
| 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM |
| Plaza Terrace |
Synopsis
Brenda shares her journey from being part of the stolen generation and the foster care system to becoming an Author, Speaker, Film Director and Indigenous Director of Learning Circle Australia. Her story is an inspiring testament to the power of healing and reconciliation.
From the moment Brenda was reunited with her birth family, she embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between her two families and her Aboriginal heritage. Her remarkable story encapsulates heartbreak, love, forgiveness, hope and bringing the Country together.
Brenda believes that healing is hidden in the past. She unlocks these secrets and brings Indigenous wisdom to today's modern world. Brenda's path is not just Australian—it resonates internationally. Her empathetic and genuine voice unites people across colour, race, and origin, embodying her belief that healed individuals foster healing in others.
Speaker
Brenda Matthews
Co-Founder/Indigenous Director
Learning Circle Australia
Walking Together
Biography
Brenda co-directed the feature documentary The Last Daughter, which was released in Australian cinemas and on Netflix in mid-2023 and on ABC in 2024 to excellent reviews and critical acclaim. The film is based on her beautifully penned book of the same title, and was also released in 2023 to excellent reviews.
Brenda’s journey from being part of the stolen generation to becoming a Mother, Grandmother, Author, Speaker, Film Director, Storyteller and Co-Founder/Director of Learning Circle is an inspiring testament to the power of healing and reconciliation.
Her remarkable story, as eloquently portrayed in her debut book and Netflix documentary feature film, “The Last Daughter,” encapsulates heartbreak, love, forgiveness, hope and bringing the Country together.
