Juanita, a proud Wiradjuri Galari Woman, is a mental health advocate dedicated to improving the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. She works to educate and empower others while aiming to reduce stigma and create positive change. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health) degree, focusing on understanding the contributing factors to poor mental health outcomes and fostering social and emotional wellbeing.

Juanita has gained valuable experience by working with government and non-government organisations that prioritise advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. During her time in these organisations, she enhanced her skillset in leadership and management, program development, grant management, community engagement, and stakeholder management.

Juanita is dedicated to collaborating with diverse stakeholders to generate meaningful solutions that address systemic issues and through fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and advocating for change, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have equal opportunities for health equity and culturally safe and appropriate access to resources that enhance their wellbeing.