Vanessa is a passionate advocate for human rights, a distinguished lawyer, and a Fulbright Scholar. Appointed as the inaugural Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People, Vanessa brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her role. Having survived Out of Home Care and overcome significant injustices, Vanessa has transformed her journey into a lifelong commitment to empowering Indigenous self-determination and advancing the rights of First Nations peoples and children, both in Australia and on the global stage.
Through her leadership, advocacy, and storytelling, Vanessa continues to inspire change, amplify Indigenous voices, and pave the way for a more just and equitable future.