Acknowledgement of Country
We respectfully acknowledge the ongoing Custodians of the lands on which we live, work, and gather. We honour their enduring connection to Country, culture, and community, and pay our deepest respects to their Elders, past and present. We express our profound gratitude for the privilege of walking on this sacred land, where stories have been told for millennia, where knowledge has been passed down through generations, and where the spirit of our ancestors continues to guide and protect us. We recognise the resilience and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their enduring commitment to the preservation and celebration of our rich cultural heritage.Dream Big Education Wellbeing & Consulting is a 100% Aboriginal-owned and Supply Nation Certified national company, founded by proud Gamilaroi author and educator Kylie Captain
Kylie is a bestselling author and sought-after speaker.
Enquire about booking Kylie for your next event.
Making a difference, one student, one school, and one organisation at a time - Kylie Captain
We facilitate:
Inspiring student programs and workshops
Transformational teacher professional learning
Bespoke Aboriginal cultural capability training for government and corporate organisations
School Cultural Incursions
Kylie Captain is a proud Gamilaroi woman, a best-selling author, and an educator with over two decades of experience in education, finance, and community services. She has made significant contributions through her expertise in delivering impactful professional development and workshops across Australia.
As the President of the Aboriginal Studies Association and the Founder of Dream Big Education Wellbeing and Education, Kylie leads initiatives that promote cultural awareness and Aboriginal educational excellence. Kylie was a finalist for the NSW Woman of the Year Award in the Aboriginal Woman of the Year category and recently published her third book at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Her commitment to leveraging her extensive experience and overcoming personal adversities drives her mission to create positive change as she aims to make a difference, one student, one school, and one organisation at a time.
Through her work, Kylie inspires schools and organisations nationally to recognise the critical role they play in shaping Australia's future, encouraging collaboration and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
As an engaging facilitator, Kylie brings practical insights and strategies to empower schools and workplaces to make a meaningful difference. She is committed to personalised guidance and support by honouring her Old People and ancestors and the diversity of Aboriginal histories and cultures.
Her mission is to amplify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, embrace diversity, and inspire lifelong learners equipped to navigate tomorrow's challenges with confidence and pride.
What others are saying
Booking or Enquiry
Enquire about a workshop or masterclass at your school or workplace.
Join our Excellence in Aboriginal Education Community in 2025.
EARLY BIRD OFFER UNTIL 11 NOVEMBER 2024.
PLACES ARE LIMITED
-
Be That Teacher NESA Accredited Teacher Professional Learning
NESA Accredited and bespoke teacher and leadership professional development based on the themes of best-selling books ‘Dream Big & Imagine the What If’ and ‘Be That Teacher who Makes Difference and Lead Aboriginal Education for All Students’.
All workshops and masterclasses are available nationally and delivered in person or via Zoom. Currently, there are two NESA accredited courses offering 5 hours of Accredited Hours. Sessions can be co-designed to meet the needs of the school or community.
Topics include:
Curriculum and pedagogy
Building and sustaining relationships with Aboriginal students and families
Leadership
Teacher wellbeing
Masterclass Feedback
“I just wanted to say THANK YOU for the masterclass yesterday. I don’t think I’ve ever been so captivated or reflective in a PL, nor have I been through so many emotions (as a result of a PL) in one day. I know I have made mistakes in the past and have a lot to learn, but yesterday you inspired me not to give up because supporting Aboriginal students is just so incredibly important”
“I loved the Be That Teacher Masterclass. I enjoyed the yarns and the comfortable, encouraging space Kylie and Cathie nurtured. The PL was so empowering and inspiring. It's truly given me the desire to go further in my Aboriginal Education Leadership journey”
“ I enjoyed the practical and actionable ideas, resources and templates that Kylie and Cathie provided. I also loved hearing how Aboriginal education and truth-telling can be embedded successfully in curriculum and classrooms”
“This work is so important and so crucial. I already felt strongly about this, but the Masterclass has really lit a fire in my desire to be the change, even when it's out of my comfort zone”
“I always find it inspiring to hear stories of the Aboriginal experience, particularly as it makes Aboriginal education so important. My take away is to be a reliable ally and encourage others to join me. It was also to celebrate Aboriginal culture authentically and not just on the significant dates”
“Every educator would benefit from attending this Masterclass”
-
Motivational Student Talks and Programs
Based on the topics of their motivational book for teens, ‘Create the Life of Your Dreams in Your Teens’..
Kylie is well known for her Dream Big Program, an inspirational program designed to engage, inspire and motivate students about the transformational power of education and support them in finding their hidden potential.
As an accredited teacher and engaging and inspirational facilitator, Kylie and her son andco-author, Tyrell Johnson, facilitates inspiring author talks and goal-setting workshops for students on topics ranging from:
Goal-setting and aspirations
Leadership
The power of education
Careers and post-school pathways
Wellbeing and resilience
Inclusion and pride in culture
Join mother and son authors, Kylie Captain and Tyrell Johnson, for an uplifting and transformative program or workshop tailored specifically for teens and pre-teens in Stage 3 and above. Explore essential themes from their book, 'Create the Life of Your Dreams in Your Teens,' as they guide you through the journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Akeisha Kelly - Aboriginal Education Officer
“Kylie Captain is a true role model and inspiration for all! Kylie’s presence ignites enthusiasm on the faces of the next generation. Kylie has the remarkable ability to inspire the young minds of the future generation, guiding them to a truly special place. Upon completing the Dream Big Program, students gained skills that can stay with them for a lifetime. Students learnt valuable lessons on resilience, kindness, gratitude, goal setting, deep listening, and mindfulness. It is heartwarming seeing the kids take their minds to a place where they believe they be whatever they aspire to be. The Dream Big Program is nothing short of inspiring, captivating, and motivational”.
Empower your students to dream big and learn essential skills and strategies to achieve success in all areas of life.
Let Kylie and Tyrell inspire you to embrace your unique strengths, overcome challenges, and emrace every opportunity that comes your way. Together, let's ignite the spark of possibility for young people to and create the life of their dreams.
-
Cultural Capability Training
Kylie Captain is a highly engaging and experienced facilitator who brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to each session. Each session is tailored to the group or organisation and can support Reconciliation Action Plans and the development of culturally safe workplaces.
Sessions are thought-provoking and, at times, an emotional experience for participants as they engage in truth-telling by unpacking Aboriginal histories and cultures and learning about Australia’s rich and beautiful cultures.
Introduction to Aboriginal Histories and Cultures:
Explore the richness and diversity of Aboriginal cultures, gaining insights into the diverse histories, languages, and traditions across Australia. This includes challenging common misconceptions and stereotypes that may hinder understanding.
Impact of Colonisation:
Examine both the historical and ongoing impacts of colonisation, delving into topics such as intergenerational trauma, dispossession, and resilience. Understanding these complexities is crucial in addressing historical injustices and working towards reconciliation.
Building Empathy and Understanding:
Foster empathy by delving into the lived experiences and perspectives of Aboriginal peoples. Encourage active listening and reflection, creating a space for meaningful dialogue and understanding.
-
Speaking Engagements
Kylie Captain is a highly respected Gamilaroi woman, author and educator who has had an impressive career in the fields of education and community service. Kylie has extensive experience delivering impactful keynote speeches and workshops at conferences and seminars across the country.
With over two decades of experience in Aboriginal education and community services, she holds the position of President of the Aboriginal Studies Association and is the Founder of Dream Big Education Wellbeing and Education.
Kylie's speaking engagements draw from her own experiences and adversities, reflecting her passionate commitment to create positive change. Her books and accompanying journals are touching the lives of many both within Australia and abroad.
Kylie's work and positive influence has been recognised by many. She is a finalist for the 2024 NSW Woman of The Year Awards.
Kylie's influential books have made a difference for countless individuals, both nationally and internationally.
Through her narrative, Kylie shares her heart-wrenching story of loss and circumstance. In her honest and powerful voice, she explains how a teacher helped her find the strength and inspiration to overcome the challenges she encountered to now enjoy a full and abundant life. Kylie takes you on an eye-opening journey of truth-telling, identity and hope. From breaking the cycle and facing fear to using the power of education and visualisation. Her story is a testament to the strength of culture, kin and connection to Country.
Book Kylie for your next speaking engagement and be inspired by her transformative message of hope, strength, and resilience.
-
Excellence in Aboriginal Education Community
Whole School Membership in our Education community
In today's educational landscape, maintaining connectivity, engagement, and a commitment to making a difference in Aboriginal Education is paramount. Our Community offers an extraordinary opportunity to enhance your schools' commitment to Aboriginal Education and foster meaningful change within their school communities.
With limited places available, now is the perfect time to secure a spot and embark on a transformative journey.Excellence in Aboriginal Education Community Through a series of engaging and insightful after-school professional development sessions led by me, with a special guest presenter in every session, members of our Community will have the opportunity to be inspired by Aboriginal voices, leaders, and change-makers throughout the year.
Here's what you can expect as a member:
Eight professional development Zoom sessions led by me along with a lineup of incredible speakers and change-makers. We have a range of incredible speakers and leaders who I guarantee will guide and inspire many towards meaningful and transformational change.
Yarning sessions to allow staff to engage directly with me to ask questions, seek guidance and brainstorm creative ideas.
A comprehensive resource platform filled with educational materials and links to trusted sites and resources, supporting staff in authentically teaching Aboriginal Education to all students.
Members have access to a private online community where they can collaborate with colleagues from other member schools, share resources, celebrate successes, and ask questions in a safe and supportive environment.
Book Launch
Sydney Opera House
March 2024
NEW RELEASE
Co-written by mother and son, Kylie Captain and Tyrell Johnson.
Perfect for teens and those who work with or have special teens in your life.
Are you a teen who is ready to make a positive change but unsure how or where to start?
Or perhaps you’re someone with teens in your life who you’d like to inspire and motivate with real life stories and inspiration.
Teenage years can be challenging, and the expectations that are placed on young people can seem overwhelming.
Proud Gamilaroi mother and son, Kylie Captain and Tyrell Johnson, bring you this powerful book filled with inspiration and practical advice to help you unlock potential and turn your dreams into reality.
Plan your way to excellence with the Kylie Captain x COS 2024 Teacher Planner
I’m very excited about my latest project - the COS x Kylie Captain 2024 Teacher Planner! I worked closely with COS to thoughtfully design a planner that would inspire teachers to make a real difference by unlocking their true potential.
Created with love and positivity and full of the motivation and encouragement that I have poured into my books and journals, the goal of the planner is to support teachers in having an organised, productive, and successful school year. It features some truly beautiful artwork from Aboriginal artists as well as uplifting and inspirational quotes to help teachers be their best selves and to keep going, even on their toughest days.
The Kylie Captain x COS 2024 Teacher Planner is exclusive to COS and has been created with love and positivity to inspire teachers to make a real difference by unlocking their true potential. It is full of the motivation and encouragement. The goal of the planner is to support teachers in having an organised, productive, and successful school year in 2024.
Both the Teacher Planner, and Dream Big journal are wonderful motivational tools for goal setting and reaching your full potential, and both feature some truly beautiful artwork from First Nations artists as well as uplifting and inspirational quotes to help teachers be their best selves and to keep going, even on their toughest days.
Artwork title: Ngunggilanha, by Anna Gannon, meaning ‘Give to each other’.
“The learning journey that is undertaken throughout the year by the educator, not only professionally but personally is represented in the yarning and meeting places. The boomerangs represent the return and embedding of culture back into the classroom and the importance of these practices, for meaningful change.” -Anna Gannon
Bespoke student belonging and engagement programs
Kogorah Principal Network (Yirran Ngalambay - meaning many ripples)
Kylie coordinated and facilitated a Jarjums Day, a network-wide approach for the
Akeisha Kelly - Aboriginal Education Officer
“Kylie Captain is a true role model and inspiration for all! Kylie’s presence ignites enthusiasm on the faces of the next generation. Kylie has the remarkable ability to inspire the young minds of the future generation, guiding them to a truly special place. Upon completing the Dream Big Program, students gained skills that can stay with them for a lifetime. Students learnt valuable lessons on resilience, kindness, gratitude, goal setting, deep listening, and mindfulness. It is heartwarming seeing the kids take their minds to a place where they believe they be whatever they aspire to be. The Dream Big Program is nothing short of inspiring, captivating, and motivational”.
NSW Department of Education Secondary Principal Conference (Keynote and Workshop)
NSW Department of Education Primary Deputy Principal Conference Keynote
NSW Department of Education Primary Principal Council Network (Campbelltown, Mt Druitt/Minchinbury)
The University of Sydney Gadaglung Program - Student Keynote address
Zonta International Women’s Conference - Keynote Address
NOII - Network of Inquiry Innovation Symposium (Keynote and Workshop Facilitator)
ACEL - Australian Council for Educational Leaders Conference - Keynote Speaker
COS - NAIDOC Speaker - Sydney Opera House
ABC The Drum Panellists
North Coast Primary Principals Association Conference
Social Futures - Guest Speaker
Mt Druitt and Minchenbury Primary Principals Association Conference
Technology Educators Association Conference
Mt Druitt/Minchinbury Primary Principal Council Conference
Dell - Australia and New Zealand - Guest Speaker
NSW Department of Education Conferences
NAPCAN - National Child Protection Week Webinar Host and Presenter
NITV - News Bulletin
Women in Educational Leadership Conference
University of Sydney - Aboriginal Educational Leadership Conferences
NSW Centre of Professional Learning
Koori Radio guest
Sydney Opera House Staff Professional Learning
SMART Recovery Australia Webinar Guest Speaker
Mitchell Youth Leadership Forum
Smart Technologies - Inspire Greatness Conference
International Women’s Day Events
Independent Schools Association - Aboriginal Student Leadership Day (Keynote and Workshop Facilitator)
University of Wollongong - Indigenous Literacy Day Keynote and Workshop Facilitator
Proud sponsors of the 2023 Walgett Dragons Bourke Hot 9’s
Masterclass Feedback
“I just wanted to say THANK YOU for the masterclass yesterday. I don’t think I’ve ever been so captivated or reflective in a PL, nor have I been through so many emotions (as a result of a PL) in one day. I know I have made mistakes in the past and have a lot to learn, but yesterday you inspired me not to give up because supporting Aboriginal students is just so incredibly important”
“I loved the Be That Teacher Masterclass. I enjoyed the yarns and the comfortable, encouraging space Kylie and Cathie nurtured. The PL was so empowering and inspiring. It's truly given me the desire to go further in my Aboriginal Education Leadership journey”
“ I enjoyed the practical and actionable ideas, resources and templates that Kylie and Cathie provided. I also loved hearing how Aboriginal education and truth-telling can be embedded successfully in curriculum and classrooms”
“This work is so important and so crucial. I already felt strongly about this, but the Masterclass has really lit a fire in my desire to be the change, even when it's out of my comfort zone”
“I always find it inspiring to hear stories of the Aboriginal experience, particularly as it makes Aboriginal education so important. My take away is to be a reliable ally and encourage others to join me. It was also to celebrate Aboriginal culture authentically and not just on the significant dates”
“Every educator would benefit from attending this Masterclass”
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Professor Bob Morgan Respected Aboriginal Educator, Researcher and Social Justice Advocate
“Dream Big and Imagine the What If should be compulsory reading for all who are willing to dream and those who refuse to allow adversity to define them.
Kylie’s book is filled with messages of kin and Country; it celebrates the intrinsic power of dreams and gratitude and it is a moving chronicle of resilience.
Read the book and be empowered ”
-
"Absolutely amazing, Kylie has definitely been put on this earth to make a difference. Her session was very touching and relatable. From one Aboriginal woman to another, there was a lot that resonated with me and inspired me to do more"
-
"Kylie shows her great courage, resilience and strength in her delivery of both teacher and student workshops. Kylie's raw and passionate story created connection among participants and shows how hard working and determined she is. Truly inspiring"
-
"Truly inspirational. The Cultural Capability session provided an honest recount of Australia's true history. Kylie's delivery came from a place of passion and purpose and inspired me to reflect on the things I can do to make a difference"
Get in touch
Complete the form to get in touch with Kylie to enquire about her professional services to support your school, community or workplace.
Our Land Our Stories
Our Land, Our Stories is a landmark educational series exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, peoples and cultures developed by Nelson, A Cengage Company in collaboration with the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS).
Developed over three years, with more than thirty five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people contributing stories to the ground-breaking primary school resource, the series is a media-rich educational package developed for lower, middle and upper primary.
All resources explicitly link to the Australian Curriculum Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cross-curriculum priority – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures – through exploring the three key concepts of Country/Place, Culture and People.
The series was written by, and in consultation with, First Australians. It will immerse students in historical and contemporary stories of Indigenous Australia, and empower educators to confidently teach students about the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and cultures.
