By Lucy Waldron
Headspace Warwick’s Youth Access Clinician, Ken Brown has been shortlisted for the 2024 National Excellence Award in the Category of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander of the Year.
This recognition highlights his significant contributions to integrating Indigenous Australian knowledge into modern mental health practices.
Ken, who holds a Master’s in Social Work and a degree in Indigenous Philosophy, is a First Nations Gulidjan Australian.
His unique approach draws on Traditional Ecological Knowledge, connecting individuals to the land and one another, offering a holistic perspective to mental health support.
Through his work, Ken encourages clients to find strength in nature, promoting balance, peace, and “quiet still awareness“ as part of their mental health journey.
His methods blend cultural knowledge, such as Dreamtime stories, with modern social work practices, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary mental health care.
The award winner will be announced on 21 November 2024 during a gala dinner at the 10th International Conference on Health and Mental Health in Melbourne.
The hybrid event will host more than 600 national and international delegates, aiming to strengthen connections among social workers and professional associations globally.
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) acknowledges the crucial role of social workers and allied health professionals in advocating for social justice and human rights.
The conference will provide a platform for practitioners, academics, researchers, and students to exchange knowledge and experiences, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing social work practice.
