Special Guest: Nova Peris OAM OLY

Nova Peris is an Olympic gold medallist, dual Olympian and international sports representative former Federal Senator for the Northern Territory. She is a mother, grandmother and proud Aboriginal woman of Yawuru, Lunga Kitja, and Bunitj Gagadju descent. A trailblazer in sport, politics, and social justice, she has dedicated her life to building bridges of understanding and advancing equality for Indigenous Australians within her own foundation, https://novaperisfoundation.org.au/

In June 2025, Nova travelled to Israel to receive the prestigious Technion President’s Award, recognising her unwavering commitment to combating antisemitism and her advocacy for Israel. This is her 3rd visit to Israel and her 1st visit came in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks, a time of deep national trauma for Israel. While in the country, she personally experienced Iran’s missile strike, seeking refuge in bomb shelters alongside Israelis — an experience that further deepened her empathy and solidarity.

During her recent visit, Nova participated in panels and dialogues confronting global antisemitism, drawing powerful parallels between her own Indigenous heritage and Jewish history. She also engaged with the scientific and academic community at the Technion, attending the Board of Governors meeting and meeting Nobel Prize laureates.

Through her advocacy, lived experience, and voice on the global stage, Nova Peris continues to highlight the shared struggles and resilience of Indigenous and Jewish peoples, reinforcing the enduring truth that identity, land, and survival are deeply connected.