World Expeditions Foundation and Australian Walking Holidays supported the 2026 Native Nations Indigenous Youth Exchange on the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.
The Native Nations Indigenous Youth Exchange is an Indigenous-led initiative bringing together 18 Aboriginal and Māori young leaders to strengthen cultural identity, confidence and leadership.
The exchange is currently in Aotearoa, where participants are learning from elders and knowledge holders, sharing traditions and building lasting connections across Indigenous nations. Later this month, the exchange will continue in Central Australia, where the Māori delegation will join their Aboriginal peers. The group will visit Mparntwe, Tjoritja and Uluṟu and undertake a culturally guided sunrise walk to the summit of Mount Sonder.
Native Nations has existed for four years and has connected Indigenous youth from Australia, Aotearoa, Canada and Vanuatu, providing many with their first passport, first flight and first international cultural exchange.
“Our commitment to reconciliation is about walking alongside Aboriginal communities to create lasting opportunities,” World Expeditions Travel Group global sustainability & impact manager Donna Lawrence said. “This exchange is a practical expression of that commitment, bringing together Aboriginal and Māori young leaders to learn from each other, celebrate culture, and build a future where Indigenous leadership is at the heart of tourism.”
Additionally, Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory Tourism & Events, Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia and Paddy Pallin also supported the 2026 exchange.
The theme of this years’ International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,” reinforcing the right of Indigenous peoples to determine their own futures, protect their cultures and maintain their connections to country.
