integratedliving CEO announces Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan
integratedliving Chief Executive Officer Nick O’Callaghan recently joined clients, team members and Board Chair Dr Vanda Fortunato in Ballarat to launch the organisation’s inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
"As an organisation that spans Far North Queensland to Tasmania and reaches deep into regional and rural communities, we understand the importance of acknowledging the enduring connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to Country.
"On behalf of the integratedliving team, I’m honoured to share our first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan which has been formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia," Nick said. "It's a meaningful step in our commitment to reconciliation and a more inclusive future."
"This Plan and its actions are the culmination of more than a year’s worth of work, and I would like to thank everyone involved," Nick said.
At the launch event, special mention was made regarding the contribution of two First Nations women. Kylie Cassidy, a proud Wiradjuri artist, created the stunning artwork that brings the Reflect RAP alive for the organisation. She named the piece Waluwin which means to ‘live well’ and this reflects integratedliving’s vision to help older people live well in their homes and communities, maintaining independence and dignity.
The other key contributor was Kristal Kinsela who worked with integratedliving’s RAP working group, guiding them and sharing her own story as a proud descendent of the Jawoyn and Wiradjuri nations.
Dr Vanda Fortunato was also thrilled to be in attendance for this important occasion.
“integratedliving’s vision for reconciliation is a community where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are respected, and their cultural heritage is both acknowledged and celebrated, recognising their deep connection to Cultures, Communities and Country,” Vanda said.
“We strive to offer culturally safe, trauma-aware and healing-informed aged-care services that enhance wellbeing and honour each person’s story and experiences.
“Our Board and Executive team are fully committed to leading and fostering cultural awareness across our organisation and improving health outcomes in partnership with First Nations peoples,” Vanda said.
integratedliving's Reflect RAP is the first of many formal steps to embed its long-term commitment to a deepening understanding of Country, Culture and reconciliation in its entirety.
CEO Nick continued: "Our Reflect RAP outlines the actions we will take to strengthen cultural awareness within our team and build closer, more meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and businesses.
"We believe that reconciliation is everyone's business – and that by listening, learning and walking together, we can help build a more inclusive and equitable future,” Nick said. “I’m proud that integratedliving has taken this step.”