12 October 1997. A 9-year-old girl with a mop of brown curls, and an insatiably curious mind was taken to Parliament House to witness the Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTAR) Sea of Hands – a powerful, physical representation of the Citizen’s Statement on Native Title. The Citizen’s Statement was a petition circulated by ANTAR to mobilise non-Indigenous support for native title and reconciliation.
Something was sparked inside this little girl. Her heart was captivated and a passion for social justice was ignited. She was in awe of the rich cultures of First Nations peoples, the strong sense of community and incredible resilience they showed. Little did she know that this was the start of her lifelong journey as an Ally for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
And that little girl is me.
Now, after 26 years, a journey that has included 16 years of study and work in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, I'm still in awe. The people I have met along the way have generously shared that richness of cultures with me, demonstrated the strength of community bonds, and displayed the staunch resilience of First Nations peoples. Yet, amidst the challenges those individuals and communities have faced, what has struck me most is their enduring sense of humour – a remarkable ability to find laughter amid adversity.
Working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs has enriched my life and broadened my perspective in immeasurable ways. A role that has enabled so many highlights in my career, such as setting up the Mindygari Centre – Centre of excellence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Erindale College to leading the development of and now co-chairing Synergy Group’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). But also, a role that has seen me face some of my hardest moments such as supporting young Aboriginal people through trauma, some of whom who never came out the other side.
I have learnt many lessons along the way, and it has shaped the leader I am today and hope to continue to be. Heart-based leadership has guided me throughout the good, the bad and the ugly.
For me, this has meant using my intuition, trusting instincts over ego, and embracing humility. Vulnerability has become my driving force, a value I cherish as I foster trust and authenticity. Self-reflection has played a pivotal role, requiring me to continually examine my own biases, assumptions, and privileges. Critical to this has been learning from and working with First Nations peoples. At Synergy Group we recognised the importance of our RAP being guided and informed by First Nations peoples, rather than assuming we knew it all. Engaging Indigenous Advisor, Benny Eggmolesse and Aboriginal artist Lynnice Church was fundamental in ensuring that we turned our good intentions in measurable actions.
The art of listening has been honed and is now a profound personal skill, it is not about just listening to respond but to truly hear others to create a strong sense of connection and understanding. I look to hear the unspoken, to sense the needs and concerns beneath the surface. Courageously engaging in difficult conversations is an essential aspect of my work. By having these conversations, we can create space for healing, growth, and transformative change. I was humbled by the opportunity to host a Q&A session with artist Dan Sultan at Synergy Group’s Sounds of Spring event at Floriade last year. The conversation was a powerful opportunity for the audience to connect and engage directly with Dan's story, recognising the resilience that he has had to display throughout his life and career.
There are no better individuals or communities to exemplify the essence of heart-based leadership than Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities themselves. I have been led and influenced by so many strong, accomplished and down-right amazing First Nations leaders. Amidst challenging moments, I've contemplated my role as an Ally and questioned my presence, concerned that I might be occupying a position more deserving of a First Nations person. Yet, during those moments of self-doubt, my First Nations colleagues and friends have kindly reminded me that genuine reconciliation hinges upon the support and active involvement of non-Indigenous Allies like myself. All Australians have a part to play.
We need to ask the questions or be the voice of reason when there isn’t a First Nations person in the room. Allyship doesn’t require a degree, it just requires showing respect, listening deeply and leading with your heart.
I am grateful for the opportunity to share my learnings and experiences with my colleagues at Synergy Group - but it will never replace the lived experience of First Nations communities. I am proud to work for an organisation that supports the establishment of a Voice to Parliament and enabling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to directly advise all levels of government about laws and policies that affect their lives.
If you would like to hear more about Synergy Group’s reconciliation journey, please get in touch with ZWinters@synergygroup.net.au
