William Trewlynn is a proud Nucoorilma, Anaiwan, and Dunghutti man, born and raised in the suburbs of Western Sydney and now residing and working on Gadigal Country. As the Managing Director, Chief Visionary Officer (CVO), and Head of Cultural Strategy at YarnnUp, William brings his deep cultural knowledge, strategic insight, and passion for social change to the forefront of the organisation’s mission. His visionary leadership is critical to YarnnUp’s role as a pioneer in First Nations consultancy, focusing on reconciliation, economic development, and cultural integrity.
A devoted storyteller, social entrepreneur, and facilitator, William has spent his career championing social change, particularly in the areas of First Nations economic development, circular economics, and innovative program design. His expertise in stakeholder engagement, relationship management, and programme development has positioned him as a thought leader in Aboriginal affairs, where he continues to advocate for self-determination and empowerment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
William’s professional journey is marked by his leadership in a number of influential roles. As the former Chairperson of Gadigal Information Service (Koori Radio), he played a vital role in amplifying First Nations voices and culture through media. He also served as Deputy Chairman of Sydney Metro Aboriginal Council, one of the state’s wealthiest landowners, where he was instrumental in shaping policies that impact Aboriginal land and economic empowerment. These leadership roles have solidified his reputation as a key figure in First Nations advocacy and governance.
In addition to his extensive professional experience, William is the founder, director, and former volunteer CEO of BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation, New South Wales’ first Aboriginal LGBTQ+ peak organisation. Under his leadership, BlaQ became a trailblazer for Aboriginal LGBTQ+ advocacy, where he oversaw the organisation’s strategic direction, governance, and operations. His work with BlaQ reflects his broader commitment to fostering inclusive spaces and championing the rights and wellbeing of Aboriginal LGBTQ+ communities.
William’s academic achievements include a Master of Business in Indigenous Business Leadership from Monash University, completed in partnership with the William Cooper Institute. This academic background, combined with his real-world experience, equips William with the tools to empower individuals and organisations working towards a more positive future for Aboriginal people and communities. His expertise allows him to guide clients through the intricate and complex nature of Aboriginal culture, ensuring that organisations are well-equipped to engage meaningfully and respectfully with First Nations peoples.
As Head of Cultural Strategy at YarnnUp, William is responsible for developing and implementing First Nations strategies that help organisations navigate the cultural landscape with integrity and respect. His work encompasses stakeholder engagement, cultural education, capacity building, creative content development, and communication campaigns, all designed to drive authentic reconciliation and foster stronger relationships between businesses and First Nations communities. William’s extensive experience in Aboriginal affairs has deeply informed his approach, allowing him to develop strategies that are not only culturally informed but also transformative for the organisations he partners with.
Beyond his professional achievements, William is a dedicated advocate for First Nations economic development and circular economics. He is committed to ensuring that Aboriginal communities are empowered through innovative business models that promote self-determination and sustainability. This forward-thinking approach is at the heart of YarnnUp’s mission, where William continues to push the boundaries of what can be achieved through culturally informed, socially conscious consulting.
William’s visionary leadership at YarnnUp ensures that the organisation remains a leader in First Nations consulting, driving reconciliation, diversity, and inclusion across Australia. His passion for cultural education and his dedication to empowering both individuals and organisations make him a key figure in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Outside of his professional life, William’s connection to his heritage and community remains central to his identity. His work at YarnnUp is a reflection of his lifelong dedication to empowering Aboriginal communities, fostering cultural understanding, and advocating for social change. Through his leadership, YarnnUp continues to be a powerful force for reconciliation and transformation across sectors.