ZANE WEETRA
FIRST NATIONS PERSON OF THE YEAR
NOMINATED FOR
Modbury
Profiles on this page have been prepared and submitted by nominees or their representatives as part of the South Australian Pride Awards process. Content reflects the words, achievements, and information provided in those submissions. Pride Adelaide has not edited profiles beyond minor formatting or clarity adjustments. Inclusion on this page does not represent an endorsement, assessment, or ranking and does not influence the independent judging process.
How would you describe yourself or your work in one sentence?
Blak, proud and unapologetic, leading at the intersection of culture, community and queer identity
Tell us a little about what you do
I am a proud Adnyamathanha and Narungga man, an Ararru (north wind) cultural representative, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I serve on the cultural heritage and native title advisory committee (CHANT), where I advocate for the protection of culture, Country and community voice in decision-making spaces. My work focuses on strengthening representation for First Nations people within government and community structures, while living openly and proudly as a queer Blak man. I am committed to embedding culture into everyday practice, mentoring younger mob, and ensuring our people are not only included, but heard and respected
What impact or achievement are you most proud of this year?
Through my work on CHANT and broader advocacy roles, I have contributed to cultural governance processes that influence decision-making impacting Adnyamathanha heritage and Country.
I actively mentor and support young First Nations people navigating identity, particularly those who are LGBTQ+, helping them see that culture and queerness are not in conflict but can exist powerfully together.
By openly representing both my cultural and LGBTQ+ identities in professional spaces, I have helped normalise intersectional leadership and created safer environments for others to step forward authentically.
Why does your work matter to the community?
My work matters because representation saves lives.
For many First Nations LGBTQ+ people, identity can feel isolating — especially in spaces where culture and queerness are treated as separate. By standing visibly in both, I help bridge that gap.
Cultural governance, heritage protection, and community advocacy directly impact our people’s wellbeing, identity and future generations. I work to ensure that decisions affecting mob are informed by culture, respect and lived experience.
Visibility, advocacy and cultural strength together create safer, stronger community
What would you like voters to know when voting for you?
I am committed to protecting Country, uplifting mob, and creating space for LGBTQ+ First Nations voices in decision-making rooms. This nomination is not just about me, it is about showing young Blak queer people that they can lead, belong and thrive without shrinking any part of who they are.