The 27-year-old Wiradjuri man has been selected to be a part of marathon legend Robert de Castella's Indigenous Marathon Project this year.

It means Naden will get to achieve his goal of running in the New York Marathon after almost a decade of being knocked back.

Naden has been following de Castella's project since he watched the documentary Running to America 10 years ago. The Canberran said he was shocked but relieved to finally join the story and inspire other indigenous peoples.

"It was a complete shock, it was in the works for ages," Naden said.

"Everyone can follow our journey but the absolute goal is for all of us to make New York and cross that finish line together. It was a huge relief and I'm just excited to put in the effort to achieve this.

"Instead of seeing negative news about Indigenous people, it's a good news story that everyone can get around."

The 12 athletes will endure six months of vigorous training and undertake a Certificate IV in Sport and Recreation.

Past graduates kick started the 'Deadly Runners' program in their local communities and organise weekly events and fun-runs. Naden hopes to become actively involved with the indigenous program in Canberra and help close the gap.

"There needs to be a big change in the health of some indigenous people and communities out there," Naden said.

"If you get people on the right track in the beginning then it makes their life so much better and healthier.

"Once the program finishes I'd like to get more involved in [Deadly Runners] and be more of a role model within the community."

Naden took the first step towards achieving his dream as he crossed the line at the annual Reconciliation Run on Sunday morning. He believes the celebration of Reconciliation Week makes a 'huge difference' for indigenous people.

"It's a good time for everyone to recognise indigenous culture of Australia," Naden said.

"It's the oldest living culture in the world and it really needs to be celebrated."