John Lindsay – South Australia

John Lindsay, a 61-year-old River Ngarrindjeri man, embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and community education. Born in Barmera and raised on the Gerard Aboriginal Mission, John’s upbringing was rooted in strong cultural values and community involvement. He attended Winke Primary and Glossop High Schools and played local football. Throughout his career, John held various community roles, including grave digging, house repairs, and council jobs. His dedication extended to community-led projects like the Aboriginal Sobriety Group in the 1970s and ’80s.

Despite challenges such as inconsistent employment and limited literacy, John returned to education at Tauondi Aboriginal College in recent years. After completing a Skill Up Program, he is now enrolled in a Certificate I in Access to Vocational Pathways. As a respected Aboriginal mentor-leader, John supports others in their educational journeys, demonstrating his commitment to mentoring and lifelong learning. His presence in the classroom is inspiring, proving that learning and personal growth are ongoing processes.

By continuing his education later in life and helping others, John demonstrates that personal transformation can happen at any age.