The Manager to Leader Shift – Interview with Malcolm Smith, Chairperson of Yakuway Indigenous Corporation In this episode of The Manager to Leader Shift, I sit down with Malcolm Smith — a respected business leader, Aboriginal lore man, and Chairperson of Yakuway Indigenous Corporation.

Malcolm and I share a long history, having gone to school together, and today I’m also honoured to serve alongside him as a Board Member of Yakuway. Malcolm reflects on his upbringing, the strong influence of his parents, and the values they instilled in him: respect, fairness, and the importance of giving everyone a go. We talk about his football career and lifelong journey with fitness and wellbeing, as well as his path as an Aboriginal lore man. Malcolm shares what it means to go through initiation, to hold responsibility for land and people, and to walk with the wisdom of mob and tribe. Our conversation weaves through the heart of leadership — collaboration, vision, and the future goals of Yakuway in supporting the holistic wellbeing of people across Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.

Together, we explore the importance of Steward Eldership and preparing the next generation to step into leadership with presence and responsibility. This is both a personal and powerful dialogue about what it truly means to lead, care for community, and honour the legacy of those who came before us. Learn more about Yakuway Indigenous Corporation or make a donation visit www.yakuway.com.au

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