Uncle Len Yarran

Len Yarran is a Noongar man from Northam, and a highly regarded community leader and educator, dedicated to promoting Aboriginal culture, education and Indigenous men’s health.

Married with four children and raised by two loving parents, Len has strong connections to Whadjuk Country on both sides of his family. He grew up in Perth’s northern suburbs alongside his brother and three sisters and is now a respected and well-known figure within those communities.

In 2013, Len was a founding member of the Wadjuk Northside Aboriginal Community Group, establishing a vital resource centre in Balga focused on strengthening the wellbeing of the local Aboriginal community. His work has been underpinned by cultural leadership, advocacy  and a deep commitment to community-led solutions.

Len’s contribution to education and community development has been widely reognised, including being named WA Aboriginal and Islander Education Officer of the Year in 2015. This award acknowledged his significant impact as a teacher, mentor, and role model at Balga Senior High School, where he supported Aborginal young people through culturally strong, strengths-based education.

As a Cultural Leader, Len is regularly invited to deliver Welcome to Country and conduct smoking ceremonies. He also shares his knowledge of Aboriginal history, heritage and education through initiatives such as the Mooro Cultural Tour at Lake Gwelup. Len considers it both a responsibility and privilege to pass on cultural knowledge through storytelling, education and ongoing community engagement.