AFL NSW/ACT and Transport for NSW hosted the second Female Indigenous Youth Leadership Program at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence on the weekend, an initiative encouraging road-safety awareness, leadership and wellbeing among young Indigenous women.

Following the successful Adam Goodes Talent Program supported by the NSW government, which worked with young men, AFL NSW/ACT was proud to deliver the second camp for girls with the help of Indigenous ambassadors James Bell and Delma Gisu.

Sydney Swans midfielder Bell understands more than most the challenges facing Indigenous AFL and AFLW players in NSW.

Bell joined the AFL NSW/ACT Youth Indigenous Program as a player at the age of 14 and didn’t hesitate to get involved as an ambassador when the Swans drafted him ahead of season 2018.

“I had just starting playing football when I heard about the Indigenous Program, so I jumped at it straight away and then when I heard about being an ambassador when I got drafted I didn’t hesitate to jump at it again,” Bell said.

Particularly passionate about mentoring young Indigenous Australians, Bell said the players not only improved their on-field ability, but took part in vital leadership and cultural sessions focused on road safety. 

“This program is beneficial not only on the field but off it," Bell said.

"We had Transport for NSW come in for a session and talk about road safety and bringing the mob home safe. I think the girls learnt a lot out of that, especially the statistics regarding Indigenous people and road safety around Australia. It was an eye-opener for myself as well.”

Bell says his role as an Indigenous ambassador gives him perspective on his career, reminding him of how privileged he is to be in his position.

“I love being part of the Indigenous programs with AFL NSW/ACT and the AFL as well," Bell said.

"It’s a good opportunity for me to give something back.”

AFL NSW/ACT Indigenous Lead Mark Leavy hailed Bell's impact on the Indigenous community.

“James is setting a positive example for young Indigenous kids," Leavy said.

"He’s also raising the bar when it comes to other athletes getting involved in the community.

“Young Indigenous people need mentors, and James and Delma have been exceptional in this capacity by sharing their story and experiences as young Indigenous athletes.

“These experiences are real and current, which make them so meaningful for the female athletes participating in our Indigenous programs.”