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Ange Jeffery

The ECHO Program inspired Ange to make the right decisions so she could keep working for an employer she loved while also pursuing her art practice.

Ange Jeffery, ECHO First Nations Women’s Leadership Program participant

Ange is a Wiradjuri artist who grew up on Country in central west NSW, with Wambuul (Macquarie River) having a lasting influence and inspiration on her art practice. Ange has an environmental science background and balances her technical ability with creative pursuits. She is a mixed media artist with a particular interest in jewellery and body adornment.

What inspired you to apply?

Knowing that I would be in in the presence of great people who inspire me to be a better me and gain more tools for my toolkit.

What has been the biggest take away message for you?

I am good enough, I can succeed, and I can take control of and achieve my dreams.

How has this program helped you pursue your career goals and aspirations?

I was working full-time for an employer when I attended ECHO, I went back and took six months off. On my return to work, which I was undecided on returning or not, I resigned from my position so I could concentrate on my small business and my arts practice.

In the end, that employer offered me any job I wanted as they didn’t want to lose me. I wanted to continue working for them as they are great and it is job share which is good for my mental health management so I am not solo all the time.

Read other participants’ experiences

Equality

Allyson Walker

Allyson Walker is a Yorta Yorta, Wemba Wemba, Gunditjmara and Taungurung woman with connections to other countries. She trained as a nurse, before moving into community development work.

Equality

Ellen Tunumafono

Thanks to ECHO, Ellen has taken on a new leadership role, applied her many new skills and connected with a strong network of ECHO alumni.

Equality

Indy Peters

Indy is Youth Co-ordinator at Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place (MMIGP). She organises culturally safe environments for Indigenous students to connect culturally and socially with each other.

Equality

Leticia Searle

Leticia is Educational Program Lead at Foodbank Victoria. She is committed to creating sustainable, collaborative programs that build capacity and provide opportunities for individuals to thrive.

Equality

Mel Peters

The ECHO Program taught Mel to know her worth and empowered her to seek out a workplace where she could be better supported to grow into a senior leadership role.

Vicky Peters

Since completing the ECHO Program, Vicky has found a clearer vision of herself as a leader and a strategic path to pursue her leadership aspirations.

ECHO First Nations Women’s Leadership Program

The Elevating Connections and Healing Ourselves program is open to First Nations women in Victoria. ECHO provides a culturally appropriate and safe space to build on participants’ leadership roles.

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Department of Families, Fairness and Housing

Equality

Updated 12 January 2026

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