Elder of the Year
Arts Mildura are delighted that Board Director Ada Peterson has been announced as 2023 Female Elder of the Year.
Ada Peterson is a proud Barkindji, Ngiyampaa and Kullilli woman. Ada is originally from Bourke but relocated with her family to Mildura during childhood, where she was raised on the riverbanks till around five years old. Ada’s family ties extend to Queensland, where her
fathers side of the family originates. On her mothers side, Ada’s family proudly comes from the regions of Menindee and Bourke. Ada has since lived in Mildura, where she raised three children, Terrence, Shanice, and Hope and built a loving home with her partner John. Ada has worked in the Aboriginal community for over 30 years in various paid and volunteer positions, mainly focused on addressing Family Violence, Community Engagement and Youth Mentorship. She is a well-known Elder in the local Mallee community for her compassion, leadership, and knowledge.
Winning this award fuels Ada’s passion to continue the important work she is currently engaged in. Ada plans on leveraging its influence to amplify the voices calling for fundamental systemic change. She aims to create an environment in which our communities not only survive but thrive. Ada will continue to uphold the key values of being an Elder and champion community-led projects that will transform existing systems.
Congratulations Ada!
We are absolutely delighted for you and our community.
