This week is National Reconciliation Week, and SCU is commemorating it with a workshop to improve an organisation’s capacity to work in a culturally safe and trauma-informed way.

Today, Kelleigh Ryan and Nicole Tujague two descendants of the Kabi Kabi people of Southeast Queensland are co-founders of The Seedling Group, and will be facilitating the event.  

(Kelleigh Ryan)

The Seedling Group, “believe that understanding trauma allows people to make strong informed decisions about their lives. Our services are based on trauma-informed, evidence based and culturally sound practices. We combine the generations of healing knowledge with western psychological and neurological sciences to benefit our clients.”

Nicole completed her PhD on meaningful Indigenous Evaluation Practice for Aboriginal Peoples, through Gnibi College, Southern Cross University. Kelleigh is an Indigenous psychologist and together through the Seedling Group, with other Aboriginal consultants, they assist CEOs, managers and operational staff to better understand working with vulnerable populations.

“Lismore has done really well in building culture in a trauma-informed way. SCU and Gnibi were a safe space for me while I was studying,” Nicole says, “Sharing knowledge with someone in a trauma-informed way is not about asking what is wrong with someone. It is asking them to tell their story. It is worth learning more about how to understand trauma.”

SCU says, “The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will - and must - continue.

“There have been many moments in Australia’s reconciliation journey that make us want to turn away. But when things are divisive, the worst thing we can do is disengage or disconnect.

“Now more than ever, we need to tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation.”

(Nicole Tujague)

Through last year's referendum, there is acknowledgement of the 6.2 million Australians who voted YES and are committed to better outcomes for First Nations people.

There is a call for reconciliation supporters to “stand up to defend and uphold the rights of First Nations peoples. To call out racism wherever we encounter it, and to actively reinforce the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across this continent. 

“Now more than ever, the work continues. In treaty making, in truth-telling, in understanding our history, in education, and in tackling racism. We need connection. We need respect. We need action. And we need change. Now more than ever, we need reconciliation.”

(Artwork: 'Walking Together', Jandamarra Cadd)

There are many events on to provide a deeper understanding of what this week means, go to Reconciliation Australia for more information. A fact sheet is available to explain more details about Reconciliation Week.

Spaces are limited, so call to the SCU to find out if there are any spaces left: (02) 6620 3377

Working with Vulnerable Populations Workshop

May 28, 2024

9.30am – 4.30pm

Gnibi Room H2.34