Nicole Thompson is not one to chase the spotlight.
Ms Thompson — a proud Mak Mak Marranunggu woman and the heart behind TRACKS Integrated Services — has always been about community first. She's spent years walking beside mob, not ahead of them. Lifting others up, creating opportunities, and holding space.
And most importantly, making sure the next generation of Indigenous leaders don't just have a seat at the table — they feel like they belong there.
TRACKS Integrated Services is a majority Indigenous-owned and Supply Nation certified business committed to employment services, training pathways, and community-led solutions. From resume support and job-matching to mental health, NDIS, and youth engagement, Ms Thompson's team works across the Northern Territory to deliver outcomes with integrity and cultural safety at the core.
Earlier this month Ms Thompson brought her vision to life at the Next Gen on TRACK – NAIDOC Leadership & Career Event - a gathering of hearts, stories, and futures at Darwin's Botanical Gardens.
The event saw three young First Nations men share their story, impart wisdom and inspire attendees, employers and stakeholders.
Culture was front and centre — just the way Ms Thompson always intended. The three speakers. each having walked a different path, were united by a shared commitment to inspiring the next generation.
They included Jonathon McDonald, a Nhanta Yamatji man from WA who works with the YMCA in Palmerston. He spoke about the deep strengths he sees in young people every day.
"Often, they don't see these strengths in themselves — but when reminded by people who support them, they're quick to humble themselves," Mr McDonald said.
"What I admire most is their ability to trust, and their ability to offer unconditional positive regard to adults. That trust allows them to keep accessing spaces where they grow and break generational cycles.
"Without even knowing it, they walk through the world as survivors of their circumstances — not victims — and champion the responsibilities of being leaders, educators, and agents of change."
Local artist Levi Nichaloff (aka Yung Milla) spoke of creativity as healing, and how culture and self-expression are vital tools for resilience and storytelling.
"It's always good to connect with the youth here. I'm one of them and for me music is what keeps me on track. Whether it's music, sport, University, whatever you want to do — find your pathway and stick to it like it's your lifeboat," Mr Nichaloff said.
"If you keep turning up, even on those days you wanna stay in bed or at home gaming, just keep turning up as every minute you spend getting to your goal you are a whole lot closer to achieving it. Just keep turning up."
And Alluree Davey, a proud Mbarbaram man serving in the Defence Force, shared how his journey in the army transformed his confidence and sense of purpose.
"The Defence Force has changed me a lot — confidence is one that is a big takeaway," Mr Davey said.
"If you were to ask me to do that panel and I was just a regular Joe on the street, I would've been like 'shame.'
But from the start of my Army career, I was taught that to be a leader or a positive role model, especially for young people held back by fear or doubt, it only takes one decision to change your life."
Their words landed. And Ms Thompson made sure this wasn't just a panel — it was a platform.
"A job is more than a role. It is a place to grow, to contribute, and to be proud of who you are. When people are supported into the right job in the right environment, they start to thrive — and that has a ripple effect on families and communities," Ms Thompson said.
"Our identity is our strength. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples bring insight, creativity, and resilience into every space we step into. When we lead with culture and support our people to move forward with confidence, great things happen."
For Ms Thompson, who constantly asks "But what will this mean for our people?" She doesn't just talk about systems change — she does the work, and she does it with grace, integrity, and deep care.
You won't hear her shouting about it — but those who've walked beside her see it.
Nicole Thompson is a quiet force, and the First Nations community is stronger — more connected, more empowered, more hopeful — because of her.