First Nations leadership doesn't always come with a title or a spotlight — it's often felt in the quiet strength of our Elders, the fierce determination of our women, and the cultural obligation we carry to give back to our communities.
As Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, we walk in the footsteps of those who came before us — matriarchs who held our families, fought for justice, and kept culture alive through generations of resistance. Today, we honour their legacy not only through ceremony and story, but through service — by stepping up, speaking out, and uplifting others.
In every corner of the Territory, there are First Nations women leading with heart, brilliance, and cultural grounding.
Women like Tammy Hatherill, a proud Indigenous psychologist who has turned her own pain into purpose. Having served as a prison officer and lived through PTSD, Tammy now works with trauma victims, offering culturally safe healing grounded in lived experience. She is currently undertaking a PhD focused on improving access to holistic care — because she knows that when our people can heal on our terms, we thrive.
There's Helen Lee, whose leadership spans health, governance, and sport. As a board director of the Aboriginal Investment Group and Deputy Mayor of the Roper Gulf Regional Council, Helen fights every day for economic development, equity, and community empowerment. She's just as likely to be found in council chambers as she is on the sidelines of the Arnhem Crows Football Club, mentoring the next generation.
And Aunty Bilawara Lee, a Senior Elder and cultural treasure of Larrakia Country. Through her work as Academic-in-Residence at Charles Darwin University and her international authorship, she's preserved language, lore, and ceremony with unwavering dedication. Aunty Bilawara is not just a cultural educator — she's a spiritual guide and mentor to many, including Defence personnel and local creatives. Her gift is in reminding us who we are and where we come from.
Finally, Melissa Tipo who is creating change in the future-facing world of STEM. A proud Djerait woman, Melissa works with the CSIRO's Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy, creating space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls to enter science, technology, engineering, and maths with pride in their identity. Through partnerships and outreach, she ensures our young women see themselves not just as participants, but as leaders and innovators in these fields.
Each of these women carries the fire of their Ancestors — and each one lights the way for others. Their leadership is not just professional; it is deeply cultural. It should remind us that with every role we take on, we hold a responsibility to community, to Country, and to future generations.
Leadership in our communities isn't about ego — it's about legacy. It's about rising, yes — but making sure others rise with us.
To these four amazing women, and all those who came before them — the community sees you. We honour you. And we continue to walk forward, grounded in culture, and led by your example.
I'd like to extend my warmest congratulations to Tammy, Helen, Aunty Bilawara, and Melissa for being named finalists in the NT News Women of the Year Awards under the First Nations Women category. Your dedication, wisdom, and tireless contributions to your communities and to Country are an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for the powerful work you do — you each lead with heart, and our communities are stronger because of you.
