Deborah Cheetham Fraillon reflects on her journey as a First Nations soprano and advocate at 60

Deborah Cheetham Fraillon, a First Nations soprano, composer, and advocate, reflects on her journey as she approaches her 60th birthday. She overcame challenges related to her identity as a member of the Stolen Generations and has dedicated her career to reviving First Nations languages and stories through music. Cheetham Fraillon is known for her significant works, including the opera *Pecan Summer*, which tells the story of the Cummeragunja Walk Off. She has also created *Eumeralla: A War Requiem For Peace*, focusing on a lesser-known frontier war, and is currently working on a new opera. In addition to her performances at major events, Cheetham Fraillon founded Short Black Opera to support First Nations musicians. She emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for others in the arts, ensuring that music remains central to her life and work.