Celebrating NAIDOC Week: A Conversation with James Grant, Partnership Manager NSW, Clontarf Foundation
As NAIDOC Week approaches, I had the pleasure of sitting down with James Grant, Partnership Manager NSW at the Clontarf Foundation. Here is my recent blog I wrote about the Foundation.
I’ve known James for over four years, both professionally and as the proud father of Jack Grant, Waratahs and Easts First Grade rugby player. Our conversation was a timely reminder of the power of community, partnership, and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," feels especially fitting for Clontarf. Every day, the Foundation supports and empowers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, helping them build strength, develop vision and carry forward the legacy of those who came before them.
James’ journey with Clontarf
James’ story with Clontarf began nine years ago in Orange, where he set up the Canobolas Academy. Since then, it has nearly doubled in size, supporting 125 young men with an impressive 83% attendance rate. Now, as Partnership Manager, James is focused on building and nurturing relationships with corporate partners, high-net-worth individuals, government officials, and key advocates.
Impact that speaks for itself
The Clontarf Foundation’s impact is tangible:
Retention and attendance: Year-to-year retention rates consistently above 80%.
Pathways beyond school: Over 80% of Year 12 graduates are employed or in further study/training a year after finishing school.
Personal success stories: There are numerous individual success stories. These stories showcase the transformative impact of the Foundation on students' lives.
Community Engagement: Partnerships with organisations like Thiess offer work experience, traineeships and apprenticeships, embedding real-world opportunities into the program.
Milestones: The Foundation regularly celebrates milestones and achievements, such as the 20-year anniversary of Clontarf academies in Geraldton Western Australia.
The unique role of corporate partners
James is quick to point out that corporate partners do so much more than provide financial support. “They attend our events, join in awards evenings, and even participate in sporting days and camps,” he says. “They offer employment forums, mock interviews, and worksite visits, helping our graduating boys become work ready. And they celebrate cultural events with us and share stories that all assist in closing the Gap.”
Leveraging skills for greater impact
James encourages companies to leverage their internal resources, skills, expertise, networks to enhance the program’s effectiveness . “Share your stories, offer work experience, or host a school-based traineeship. Celebrate First Nations events like Reconciliation Week with us. These connections help our boys transition from school to work or further study.”
Aligning with Diversity & Reconciliation goals
Clontarf’s work aligns seamlessly with broader diversity and reconciliation strategies, focusing on five pillars: Education, Employment, Leadership, Wellbeing, and Sport.
“If you’re serious about closing the gap, partnering with Clontarf is a powerful way to make a real difference,” James says.
Endless opportunities for involvement
For employees wanting to get involved, the possibilities are endless. “We’re flexible and open to engagement that fits with your organisation’s culture and values,” says James. “Mentoring, events, or just sharing your journey, every contribution matters.”
The heart of the work
When I ask James what he finds most rewarding, his answer is simple and heartfelt: “Watching a young boy enter the program, learn, grow, and graduate with the desire to contribute and lead. Seeing them give back, become role models, and share their journeys, that’s what it’s all about.”
How B2B corporate marketing teams can amplify Clontarf partnerships
Marketing plays a vital role in amplifying the impact of partnerships with Clontarf. By sharing success stories, celebrating milestones, and highlighting the journeys of young men in the program, marketing can showcase how these partnerships are changing lives and creating tangible outcomes. Strategic campaigns across digital, social, and traditional media help raise awareness of Clontarf’s mission and the powerful results of corporate collaboration. By shining a spotlight on these partnerships, marketing not only celebrates the achievements of Clontarf boys but also inspires others to get involved, driving collective progress towards reconciliation.
As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, James’ work is a reminder that real change happens when we come together, building partnerships, sharing stories, and supporting the next generation of leaders.