Senior Project Officer
Carly Forrest is a Mandandanji woman and a dedicated advocate for First Nations women, she draws upon over a decade of professional experience to empower community.
With a Bachelor of Business Management & HRM, Carly's journey began in community engagement at The University of the Sunshine Coast and moved into leadership roles at Queensland University of Technology. She later contributed to vocational education in high schools for TAFE QLD and supported First Nations education research at the University of Queensland.
In May 2023, Carly launched her own consultancy, The Dreaming Collective, aiming to bolster First Nations-owned businesses' growth through strategic operations while promoting cultural respect in non-Indigenous sectors. Her expertise encompasses leadership, stakeholder relations, brand development, and marketing communication. Carly's commitment extends to mentorship, public speaking, and advocacy, evident through her board and committee engagements. She epitomises collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity, leaving a lasting impact on First Nations entrepreneurship and community development.
Carly is working with NATSIWA in the Senior Project Officer role in support of its vision and commitment to empowering First Nations women.