On June 6th 2026, Pride Adelaide held their annual South Australian Pride Awards and Hall of Fame ceremony. More than 80 nominees were up for 10 award categories, and we’re proud to congratulate PFA ATSSSI advisory commitee co-chair for being awarded First Nations Person of the Year.
The First Nations Person of the Year category honours a First Nations community member whose contributions to Pride and culture inspire us all.
Damien Ralphs is a Gunnai/Kurnai and Wotjobulok person whose work spans Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, arts, culture and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. He works as Principal Project and Partnerships Officer for Preventive Health SA, serves as Co-Chair of Pride Foundation Australia’s Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, South Sea Islander Advisory Committee, and has contributed to Feast Festival, SAMESH and SHINE SA. His work supports grants, partnerships, cultural visibility and health priorities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQIA+ communities across urban, regional and remote settings.
Pride Adelaide says “The 2026 South Australian Pride Award recipients represent the very best of our community. From volunteers and performers to employers, community groups, advocates and leaders, each recipient has made a lasting impact through their dedication, visibility and commitment to others.”
Congratulations Damien!
Photography credit: samuelgravesphotography
