Tiwi Islands Elders and leaders share insights into social and emotional wellbeing in practice

Recently Dr Beatriz Cardona, Strategy and Evaluation Senior Program Officer at NT PHN, visited the Tiwi Islands to connect with Elders and community leaders about the NT PHN Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Program and its place in community life. 

Dr Cardona said conversations emphasised the importance of maintaining strong connections to culture, family and Country, and the role SEWB programs can play in fostering these connections. 

“Discussions focused on creating safe and inclusive spaces where people can come together, share knowledge, and stay connected to community life,” Dr Cardona said.  

Dr Cardona met with providers including Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations Jipungwayi Youth Services, Murrup and Tarntipi Bush Camp.  

“Conversations with these providers demonstrated how these principles are being put into practice through on-Country activities, group gatherings and ongoing participant engagement,” she said. 

The visit also included meetings with other local organisations, including CatholicCare NT and arts organisations, to explore the partnerships and collaborative approaches supporting SEWB outcomes across the region. 

“The visit reinforced the value of strong engagement with Elders and community leaders, alongside effective collaboration between organisations, to ensure SEWB initiatives remain culturally grounded, community-informed and responsive to local priorities,” Dr Cardona said.