Lesley identifies as Anmatyere and Jaru through her biological family from the Central Desert regions. Mother of one daughter, Aunty to many. A second generation stolen generation child; Lesley grew up on Turrbal and Yuggera country in the suburb of Inala. Then relocated to Yugambeh country in her late teens where she commenced her work in the Public Service as an Indigenous Teacher Aide at Biggera Waters Primary School and Southport High School.
Lesley, holds a Bachelor of Human Services which was conferred at Griffith University (Logan
Campus) in 2009. She commenced in the Connected Beginnings Director role in Angurugu, Groote Eylandt in February 2021.
Lesley’s published work includes Listening with Respect: StrengtheningCommunication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Darlington Y, Garland L & Hall, K. ed.s
2007 published by the University of Queensland and ‘Cultural identity, kinship and connections in early childhood’. In Reconciliation in Action, edited J. Goodwin and Hydon. Early Childhood Australia 2023.
She has extensive experience, knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal service delivery
throughout Australia in urban, rural and remote communities. She has worked in education, child protection, family support, youth justice, health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment (human resources) and currently working in an early years education and care program.This work in Aboriginal Affairs has spanned over 20 years in the Public, Private and non-government sectors.
Lesley’s commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities is her life’s work and provides her the motivation to make a difference. Her resilience is inspiring from being a child in care to working in Leadership positions.
She truly values the contribution and commitment of people that work towards improving outcomes for Aboriginal children, young people, families and communities including her current Connected Beginnings Team.
Social impact takes time, building capacity of local Aboriginal people is the best investment for the sustainability of future generations. Her motto is “every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential!”