L-R Jacinta Walton, Bep Uink & Shakara Liddelow-Hunt
At The Kids Research Institute Australia, we are committed to the ongoing work in Aboriginal health which includes investment, support and training of our Aboriginal researchers and staff.
In celebration and acknowledgement of our Aboriginal researchers and staff, donor and community members gathered during National Reconciliation Week to recognise achievements and generous contributions.
Hosted by Kulunga Operations Manager Mara West, guests at the morning tea event were treated to a special Welcome to Country by Auntie Millie Penny before Director Jonathan Carapetis, discussed the importance of initiatives like our STARS philanthropic program to support The Kids Aboriginal researchers and staff.
Support and Training of Aboriginal Researchers and Staff (STARS), a philanthropic program - aims to equip the next generation of Aboriginal leaders through training opportunities and career progression. The program is made possible thanks to the generosity of our donor community.
Congratulations to Natasha Morrison, Jacinta Walton, Jordeana Howard, Shanara Quartermaine, Shakara Liddelow-Hunt, Kelli McIntosh and Bep Uink who have been awarded with STARS funding for capacity building and training, allowing these rising stars to reach new heights.
Director of Aboriginal Health Glenn Pearson shared the crucial role Elders play within our community – teaching and passing down knowledge, sharing experience and offering support.
Facilitated by The Kids, the Ngulluk Koolunga Ngulluk Koort (Our Children, Our Heart) Project grew out of a bold vision to harness the wisdom of Aboriginal Elders and community members to improve outcomes for Aboriginal children and their families. Five years on, the project has produced a suite of Elder-led, culturally appropriate, and empowering initiatives that are making a difference.
Four new honorary Elder researchers were announced and will now join the Ngulluk Koolunga Ngulluk Koort family to support the fantastic work that is being done within our communities.
Congratulations Auntie Doreen Nelson, Auntie Dot Getta, Auntie Helen Kickett and Aunty Glenys Yarran.
The health of Aboriginal kids is everyone’s business – which is why we are so thankful to our donor community who support Aboriginal research and programs such as STARS, to ensure we can continue our work in the community.
Special thanks to founding STARS donors Clinical Associate Deborah Lehmann AO and Professor Michael Alpers AO FRS.