Jay Wathen has always known where his heart lies — working with children and helping his community thrive.
The 30-year-old Kamilaroi man, who grew up in Sydney's Lane Cove with a single mum, is now channelling that passion through his role as a Scholarships Program Officer at the GO Foundation — an Indigenous education organisation co-founded by AFL legends Adam Goodes and Michael O'Loughlin alongside long-time friend James Gallichan.
For Jay, the role is more than a job. It's a calling.
"I have seen students be the first ones in their family to finish school which is a huge achievement — some have even gone on to be the first to attend university," he told National Indigenous Times.
It was the GO Foundation's commitment to putting culture at the centre of education that first drew him in. Now, he's part of the team making that vision real for young First Nations students.
"Growing up, we didn't have opportunities to learn about culture in this way," he said.
It's a reflection that underscores the power of GO's culturally grounded approach — one that he says creates real belief and belonging among students.
"One of the biggest benefits I see is that our students get the chance to learn more about culture, something not all of them may have regular access to," he added.
With a baby on the way this year, Jay says soon becoming a father has strengthened his sense of responsibility — both at home and within community — to be a strong role model for the next generation.
His work takes him across schools, visiting scholars, running leadership days and taking the lead on Culture Connect Days. These are spaces where students can share stories, connect with one another, and deepen their cultural identity.
He calls them, "opportunities for scholars to come together, learn, connect, and celebrate culture".
Jay's work also resonates deeply with this year's NAIDOC Week theme: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. He has become a familiar face to many of the students he supports, offering consistency throughout their schooling journey — and sometimes beyond.
"It's incredibly rewarding to see their progress beyond school as well. I've had former students reach out for support with employment, and I've been able to connect them with the right people and some have even gone on to win awards," he said.
"Watching them grow in confidence, take pride in their identity, and build a future for themselves is a powerful reminder of why this work matters. It's a privilege to play even a small part in their journey."
As for what comes next, Jay's plans are clear.
"Being part of a program that supports and uplifts young people, especially through cultural connection and educational opportunities, is something I'm proud to be a part of and hope to continue for years to come," he said.
And with every student he supports, he's helping build not just brighter futures — but a legacy of pride, culture and strength.
