Meriam man Brian Bero has been named a 2025 Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Outstanding Indigenous Australian Alumnus, recognising his leadership in law, advocacy and Indigenous economic development.

Mr Bero said the award was especially meaningful given the personal challenges he faced while completing his studies.

"My law degree was the most challenging time of my life," he said.

"In the third year of my law degree, I lost my father; in the fourth year of my law degree, just two weeks before I was to sit my final exam, my mother passed away.

"I was obviously devastated in that time, but also powered through to ensure that I would make them proud wherever they were."

Mr Bero said he chose QUT because of the Oodgeroo Unit, which supports Indigenous students and connected him to lifelong friends.

"Study hard but also ensure that you build a network of friends because those friends will be there to support you through your career," he said.

"My QUT degree has given me a great platform to work off.

"It has allowed me to develop the skills and expertise to now sit on boards, progress my career in law, and work on matters that are really important to me."

QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor, Margaret Sheil, said the award recognised Mr Bero's impact across law, policy and Indigenous empowerment.

"His drive and leadership cannot be underestimated, unlocking economic opportunity, protecting cultural heritage and advancing self-determination for Indigenous peoples across Australia," Professor Sheil said.

Mr Bero is co-founder, Principal and Director of Jaramer Legal - one of Australia's first national Indigenous-owned law firms, providing corporate and commercial legal services to government, corporations and Indigenous organisations across the country.

He previously worked as a fitter and turner in mining and gas in the Pilbara, built ships in Cairns and machined aircraft parts in Brisbane, gaining practical experience that shaped his leadership approach.

He has represented major corporations and government bodies including the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office, Telstra, Oracle and Qantas on matters involving telecommunications, technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, and privacy.

In 2024, Mr Bero was named National First Nations Senior Lawyer of the Year and continues to contribute to the clean energy sector through roles with ARENA and the First Nations Clean Energy Network.

He also serves on the Federal Government's First Nations Trade and Investment Advisory Group and the Board of Indigenous Business Australia, supporting national policy and economic development.

More information about the 2025 QUT Outstanding Alumni Awards winner can be found on the QUT website.