I am a proud Wiradjuri women born and bred on Awabakal/Worimi land Newcastle NSW. My journey into health started young starting at 15 when I got my first job with NSW Health, working at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital as a student based trainee in admin. I spent a couple of years there before moving into a mental health traineeship as an Aboriginal Mental Health Professional trainee with Yimamulinbinkaan Aboriginal Mental Health Service, where I’ve been learning and growing ever since.

I am currently studying a Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health) at Charles Sturt University and once I graduate, I will step into my role as a mental health clinician. I plan on going even further with a Master’s, because our mob deserve the best care and I want to be part of making that happen.

Outside of work and study, I love keeping active through softball and Muay Thai. I always get around the Koori knockout and Koori Netball Tournament, it is a great way to stay connected and have a bit of fun. I’m also a proud member of the Awabakal Land Council and Indigenous Allied Health Australia, making sure I stay involved in community and culture.

Outside of work and study, I love keeping active through softball and Muay Thai. I always get around the Koori knockout and Koori Netball Tournament, it’s a great way to stay connected and have a bit of fun. I’m also a proud member of the Awabakal Land Council and Indigenous Allied Health Australia, making sure I stay involved in community and culture

As an Indigenous person studying a Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health), my commitment to improving the well-being of our communities is deeply personal. Through my studies and my traineeship with Yimamulinbinkaan Aboriginal Mental Health Service (YAMHS), I have witnessed the immense challenges our people face, especially regarding mental health. Too many silently struggle with intergenerational trauma, discrimination and the enduring impacts of colonisation. I aim to be part of the solution, offering culturally safe, compassionate and meaningful support.

Mental health care for Indigenous Australians must extend beyond the Western clinical approach. Healing is about connection to Country, culture and community. At YAMHS, we are fortunate to work alongside a spiritual healer and I’ve seen first-hand the power of blending traditional healing with clinical care. This holistic approach addresses the spiritual and cultural needs of our mob and I strive to ensure these practices are recognised and incorporated into mental health care particularly in rural areas.

As a qualified mental health professional, I want to be a trusted support for our people, advocating for more Indigenous-led mental health services, culturally competent programs and increased funding for community-driven initiatives. My goal is to create mental health care that strengthens, not isolates our communities.