John Davis is an expert, experienced educator, teacher, manager, and school principal. John is a senior research fellow at the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Lab (Deakin University), a regular media commentator, and the former CEO of the Stronger Smarter Institute.
"“Riteways – igniting the fire of directional learning, regeneration, and sustaining ways of knowing. Voices that challenge and reposition euro-centric knowledge and scientific worldviews, voices that out the hegemony of colonisation, and voices that offer leadership and invitation are what this country needs now. Our steps to maturity as a nation are offered to us by the oldest living culture on our home. Within these pages are the respectful riteways we can learn to reimagine this place and the place of education for all Australians. A Noonthalli, in every sense of the word, Dr Davis generously affirms his mentors, teachers, and guides as he opens us (migloos) to community yarns “roll our tongue”, his personal history of nesting advocacy, language, and its deep relationship to Indigenous Knowledge. The riteway flows calls us not to respond to cultural identity in curriculum and pedagogy but rather to regenerate and sustain in a model of cultural proficiency. Gamba ngindus Dr Davis for the friendship, guidance, laughs, and most importantly vision.” Dale Murray, Co-Chair AAFIE, Director Education Learning Without Barriers, Adjunct Researcher within the Peter Underwood Centre, Division of the Vice Chancellor and Chancellor, University of Tasmania, Australia. ""I have had the pleasure to work closely with proud Cobble Cobble man Dr John Davis fondly known as JD for more than sixteen (16) years and he has become a trusted friend. He is grounded in his culture and his love for his people and this is evident in the depth of investment he offers when he shares his insight and expertise. Over the years JD has proven himself to be a cultural ambassador for his people and he continues to strengthen the Indigenous Knowledges gap that empowers and enables First Nations students and communities to thrive. He has been a teacher and cultural advisor, principal, Deputy Director of Queensland Education and Chief Executive Officer of the Stronger Smarter Institute and currently Senior Research Fellow at Deakin University. He is known extensively for his Indigenous Knowledge expertise, views and leadership experience. JD never shy’s away from the difficult conversations and holds others’ to account. A passionate leader locally, nationally, and internationally."" Dyonne Anderson, CEO Stronger Smarter Institute, Australia."