Born in Wollongong and raised in the Dharawal community in the Illawarra, Cleveland identifies as a Wiradjuri man. He also acknowledges his Wiradjuri connections to Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo, NSW, through his maternal family. Born and raised off his traditional country, he quickly learned and respected the diversities of Aboriginal cultures. Cleveland commenced work in NFP sector with an Aboriginal Mentoring company. Across his career, he has worked in diverse, cross-cultural and complex environments. Justice, Child Protection, Disability, Health and Education. He is now the Business Relationships Director for IAHA, while developing Yaali Collective with his partner.