Cheyenne Enright (née Chong) is a proud Waanyi woman from North West Queensland. Raised in Darwin, Cheyenne’s life has taken her across the country through work and opportunity—but it was Townsville that introduced her to her husband, a Singleton local, and ultimately led her to the Hunter Valley in 2019. Singleton has since become her home away from home: a place of deep community connection and the backdrop to the next chapter of her family’s journey. Her identity as a Waanyi woman and her lived experiences continue to guide her work in community, education, and storytelling.

Cheyenne’s love for storytelling began the moment she learned to talk—earning her the family nickname of “chatterbox,” a trait she still proudly owns today. She brings a vibrant, layered approach to every yarn, enriched by her knack for detail and love of connection. This gift flows into her work with young Aboriginal girls in schools, where storytelling becomes a tool for empowerment, cultural exchange, and everyday guidance. Her NAIDOC 2025 short story, Evy and the Cheeky Willie Wagtail, is inspired by a cherished tale from her father and brought to life through the spirit of her eldest daughter. It’s a story of memory, family, and culture—passed on with pride.

To Cheyenne, NAIDOC Week is a time for pride, reflection, and renewal. It’s about honouring ancestors, uplifting identity, and celebrating the strength of mob through dancing, art, and community. In Singleton, that celebration is felt deeply. This year’s theme resonates with her passion for reclaiming space and story—on our terms. She sees storytelling as vital to cultural survival, offering richness, truth, and belonging to a world in need of all three. Her message for the next generation: “Your stories matter—tell them boldly. Dance them. Sing them. Write them. Your voice carries the strength of those who came before you.”