Whilst still quite new to Lutheran Care, Charmayne is already making a big impact with her incredible breadth of knowledge around policy and processes, her big heart for helping people, and her dedication to improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and others. The entire Lutheran Care team is fortunate to have the opportunity to connect with and learn from Charmayne’s depth of experience and skills gained from her career across government and non-government organisations and her lived experience as an Aboriginal woman.
“The United Nations’ theme for International Women’s Day is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” What does this mean to you?
This theme is deeply meaningful to me as it emphasises the universal right of every woman and girl to live with dignity, free from discrimination and inequality. For Aboriginal women and girls, it highlights the importance of recognising and respecting our unique cultural identities and histories. Empowerment means providing the tools, opportunities, and support necessary for us to achieve our full potential and contribute meaningfully to our communities, while honouring our culture. It also involves decolonising thinking, challenging and dismantling the systemic biases and structures that have historically marginalised Aboriginal voices.
Tell us a little about what you do in your role and why you do it?
In my role at Lutheran Care, I support staff who provide financial literacy and wellbeing services to vulnerable communities. My work involves coaching and mentoring staff, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to assist clients effectively. Additionally, I also support the Cultural Team in Foster Care, helping to ensure that Aboriginal children in foster care maintain strong connections to their culture. I am passionate about these roles because it allows me to contribute to empowerment of individuals and families, helping them achieve greater self-reliance and stability, while also respecting and incorporating cultural values and practices. I am committed to decolonising thinking by promoting culturally sensitive approaches and challenging conventional perspectives.
Which woman inspires/inspired you and why?
One woman who has always inspired me is my mother. Her strength, wisdom, and resilience in the face of adversity have been a guiding light for me. She has taught me the importance of staying connected to our culture and the power of community. Her ability to navigate both traditional and contemporary worlds with grace and dignity is truly inspiring.
What’s the most important advice you ever got from a woman in your life?
The most important advice I received was from my mother, who told me, “Never forget where you come from and always stand up for your peoples.” This advice has guided me through many challenges, reminding me to value my culture and to advocate for the rights and wellbeing of my community.
What are your hopes for young women today?
My hope for young women today is that they grow up in a world where they are valued and respected for who they are. I hope they have access to education, opportunities, and resources that enable them to pursue their dreams without fear of discrimination or inequality. I also hope they find strong role models and mentors who inspire and support them in their journeys, and that they remain connected to their culture. Additionally, I hope they embrace the importance of decolonising thinking, challenging existing biases, and advocating for systemic change.
Anything further you’d like to add?
I would like to emphasise the importance of solidarity and allyship in the fight for gender equality. It is crucial for all of us, regardless of gender or cultural background, to work together to create a more just and equitable world. By supporting and uplifting each other, we can make significant strides towards achieving true equality and empowerment for all women and girls. Decolonising thinking is a vital part of this process, as it helps to dismantle the barriers that have historically marginalised Aboriginal voices and perspectives.