Nicole’s Research Fellow role at Flinders will support participatory action research processes in Youth Engagement in Allied Health (YEAH). The YEAH project promotes student pathways into various health professions across the NT.  This includes specific projects of strategic importance to Rural and Remote Health in the Northern Territory. 

Where did you work before joining CMPH? 

I became a Research Fellow in Remote Health Pathways with the Rural and Remote Health team in the Northern Territory. Before this role, I worked as a Remote Teacher with First Nations middle years students in northeast Arnhem Land, the Big Rivers, and Central Desert communities while at the Northern Territory Department of Education. Prior to that, I was a Research Assistant at the University of Melbourne’s Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity, where I contributed to teaching and research within Indigenous-led social change projects.

What journey brought you to this point in your career? 

Inspired by many First Nations trailblazers particularly Professor Chris Matthews and his articulation of the Goompi pedagogical model. Also, Professor Lester Rigney and his framework for validating First Nations pedagogy in education contexts.

What is something you love most about your work? 

I love gaining a shared understanding /learning with, from and for First Nations people.  I love collaborating and extending possibilities for First Nations young people to connect with their cultural identity, cultural and linguistic assets, sense of belonging and capabilities within STEM-based careers.

How do you like to relax or spend your spare time?    

In my spare time, I enjoy bush walks, birdwatching,  campfire cooking, gardening, yoga, singing, and sharing food with friends and family.