Angus Loft, a Kamilaroi man, second-year medical student at the University of Queensland, and member of the College’s Psychiatry Interest Forum (PIF). 

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Angus Loft, and I am a Kamilaroi man. I’m 22 years old and I have a deep passion for helping others, health science, education and the performing arts. Over my time at university, I’ve developed an interest in psychiatry and the impacts of mental health and how I may be able to improve patient outcomes in the future, especially for First Nations Peoples.

2. What does this year’s theme — ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’ — mean to you personally and professionally?

To me, this year's NAIDOC theme represents hope – hope that the next generation will continue to improve upon the foundations and legacy built by the generations before us. That we will be the trailblazers who carry the vision of our grandparents and parents for a better world, where First Nations voices are heard and represented. This theme essentially shows that we will not slow down, but instead continue to work towards a better future, for everyone.

3. How have your Elders and ancestors influenced your journey into medicine and psychiatry?

I don’t think I would be who I am today without the influence of my Elders and ancestors. The impact my parents, grandparents, siblings, and more have had on me has shaped me, and it is the reason I feel so passionately about helping others.

Growing up in a strong, loving support network, while witnessing declining health around me, has helped me appreciate the importance of caring for loved ones and understanding the world of healthcare. This passion led me towards psychiatry as I have realised the immense impact mental health plays on physical health. I want to be able to have a positive impact on improving this in the future.

4. Please share your recent participation in a PIF event or activity; how has this experience assisted in your career journey to become a psychiatrist? 

My recent participation in a PIF event was at the RANZCP 2025 Congress held on the Gold Coast. This was a week-long event, and it left a lasting impact on me, and stimulated an interest in psychiatry. It gave me the chance to meet like-minded individuals at the same stage of their study as me, meet junior doctors who were able to give me tailored advice, and overall network with several amazing individuals that may be my colleagues in the future.

5. How do you see the next generation of First Nations psychiatrists shaping the future of mental health care?

The next generation of First Nations psychiatrists have the power to make significant change. Although several barriers remain, we are also privileged with the wealth of knowledge we have been granted and the ability to forge a new identity where First Nations cultures and heritage can safely interact with medicine and psychiatry.