Rainbow Futures WA has announced that Narelda Jacobs has accepted an invitation to become the organisation’s patron.
Jacobs is a Whadjuk Noongar journalist, presenter, commentator, speaker, MC and well-known member and supporter of the LGBTIQA+ community.
Jacobs fronted Channel 10’s Perth news for many years before relocating to Sydney for a larger role at the network.
“We’ve made so much progress when it comes to equality for LGBTIQA+ people but there’s still so much to advocate for”, she said on her appointment.
“We can’t rest until every member of our community can feel safe while at school, work, playing sport, accessing health services or even borrowing books at the library.
“The rainbow community has always been stronger together and Rainbow Futures WA will use that collective strength to keep pushing for progress.”
Narelda is the first Aboriginal, and first openly lesbian, newsreader in Western Australia. With a pioneering career in media, she is well-known across Australia for her work with Network 10, as a presenter and journalist. She is also a regular on the ABC, SBS, NITV, and is an event host.
Speaking on behalf of Rainbow Futures WA, Convenor Misty Farquhar said they were excited to have Narelda’s support.
“For many queer and Indigenous people, Narelda is a beacon of hope. She is a role model for so many of us.”
“Narelda’s work speaks for itself. She is a positive, passionate, and proud community leader. We look forward to engaging with her as our patron.”
The organisation said Jacobs shared their passion for equality, diversity, and inclusion.
In addition to her new role with Rainbow Futures WA, Jacobs is also on the board of the National Justice Project. She is on Football Australia’s National Indigenous Advisory Group and is a Legacy ‘23 Ambassador for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
She is also an ambassador of The Pinnacle Foundation, The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation, Motor Neurone Disease Association WA, WA Aboriginal Leadership Institute and Deadly Science, and was a Rainbow Champion for Sydney World Pride 2023.
Last month the WA government appointed Rainbow Futures to be the peak body for LGBTIQA+ communities in Western Australia.
