Stephen J Howarth

I am a proud Gunu–Baakandji man originally from Bourke NSW with family connections with the Budjitti and Kunja peoples of Northwestern NSW and South West Queensland. From my work and involvement in the community, I have been accepted in the communities I have worked and lived in throughout my life, and have comprehensive knowledge of the broader NSW First Nations communities, including the Murdi Paaki region, New England and North West region, North Coast region and Binaal Billa region in Central West NSW. I am proud of my Aboriginal heritage and my passion is social justice and equality for my people—this grounds who I am as a person and the work I have done throughout my career. My passion is not academic but based on the lived experiences of my family including loss of connection to culture, chronic illnesses leading to low life expectancy, loss of kinship, everyday racism, contact with the law and justice system, and challenges acquiring economic independence and educational attainment. My experiences and those of my family have shaped my values and guides me in everything I do. I have over 30 years’ experience working in Government and Non-Government Sector. My experience has provided me with excellent knowledge of First Nation communities that I have worked in and has enabled me form strong working relationships that has enhanced my skills in project management, building strategic partnerships and alliances, team leadership and facilitating ownership. I am proud to acknowledge REDI.E for the outstanding investment into the remote and discrete of communities of the Murdi Paaki region of NSW. In particular the programs and initiatives of REDI.E that have had an immense impact on the lives of the vulnerable and less fortunate people that live on our communities. I am committed to the REDI.E Board also to add value to the impressive leadership, professionalism, and commitment of the current Management and Staff. I am honoured to be Chairperson of REDI.E Note: I am currently on leave from my substantive role as the Senior Project Officer with the NSW Department of Premier & Cabinet I Aboriginal Affairs & Outcomes I Murdi Paaki Region.