Noongar Yamatji man Cohen Taylor has been selected as a finalist for the 2023 National Indigenous Times Indigenous Community Leadership Award.

The 2022 Mr Naidoc first began his journey towards becoming a police officer three years ago, passionate about taking the extra step in bridging the gap between police officers and the Indigenous community.

"In my role, I have learnt that I am a role model, not only to family members, but strangers in my community, and across Western Australia," said Mr Taylor.

"And it has given me the knowledge and drive to know that I can make change for my mob."

It hasn't always been smooth sailing.

"I didn't do too well in school, I got kicked out of the class a lot and got to a point where I wouldn't attend school for weeks," he said.

"I struggled to concentrate in the classroom, easily got distracted, and I struggled to regulate my emotions."

Mr Taylor was diagnosed with ADHD but worked hard to graduate high school before moving from Morawa to Perth, where he is now enrolled in University and completing the Police Academy training.

His journey to keep thriving and becoming the best version of himself made him a stand out candidate for the first ever Mr Naidoc.

He applied in 2022 and became a finalist, and soon after was crowned Mr Naidoc. With the title as Mr Taylor had to step up to the responsibilities of being a role model in the community.

"I've attended multiple schools as a guest speaker and shared my story to inspire the younger generations," he said.

"I was cast on the NITV series Our Law in 2022, and it highlighted my ability to connect with others, and the difference I can make as a police officer.

"I have made it a priority of mine to learn my own language, and use my own time to research my family history, and to learn other languages. That will allow me to communicate with different people from different nations."

Mr Taylor is organised men's and women's basketball teams and transport from Morawa to Perth, to play in the Barry Cameron Memorial Basketball Tournament. He sees sport as a way to engage young Aboriginal people in healthy and positive lifestyles.

He also facilitated the Morawa Blue Light Unit, where he helps run events for local youth to encourage them stay active and feel valued in their community.

Mr Taylor also conducts visits to schools in Morawa, speaking with students about making good choices on their own unique journey through life.

"In my work daily as a police officer I am often looked and relied upon to make critical decisions in the community that can affect a wide range of people," he said.

"I know that the way I carry myself in my job daily reflects on me and the Police Force as a whole, and often I am relied upon by other key stakeholders in the community to explain decisions and rationale to families who often feel left out and not valued."

From being misunderstood and almost failing school in his youth, Mr Taylor is now actively being sought out to share his story.

He hopes others can learn from his experiences of perseverance, struggle and change.