My name is Pearl Akee, and my journey to becoming a Mental Health Worker on Thursday Island has been shaped by my heritage and life experiences. I was born and raised in Sydney, NSW, but my roots trace back to the Nakorolevu clan of Lomanikoro, Rewa in Fiji, and the Dauar-Meriam and Geuram tribes of Mer in the Torres Straits.
In 2008, I made a significant move to Waibene, Thursday Island, where I completed my last three years of high school. This transition was not without its challenges, but it was also a profound learning experience. It reconnected me with my heritage and introduced me to the unique needs of my community. After high school, I embarked on a 12-month traineeship in business and administration, but I soon realised I yearned for a more meaningful pursuit.
My path took a significant turn when I became a special needs teacher’s aide. Working closely with children and adults with special needs ignited a passion within me—a passion to advocate for those who often feel unheard or unsupported. Over five years, I gained invaluable experience in this role, and it was during this time that I recognised the importance of mental health support, particularly within my community.
I decided to pursue a Diploma in Community Services, further strengthening my commitment to social work. Currently, I’m completing my Bachelor of Social Work at James Cook University, driven by the desire to make a real difference in the lives of others. My experiences—both my own struggles growing up in a challenging environment and witnessing the struggles of those I work with—have profoundly influenced my approach to mental health care. For instance, seeing a child with special needs overcome their challenges with the right support, or witnessing the transformation of an adult struggling with mental health issues, have been pivotal moments in my journey.
At Wakai Waian Healing, I am surrounded by a team that shares my vision of creating a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. I understand the systemic barriers that often leave individuals without the support they need. Many in our community are unaware of the benefits available to them, like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and this lack of knowledge can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness.
My dream for Torres Strait Islanders is to create a support and information hub where individuals can feel heard and empowered. I envision a service providing immediate help and fostering long-term connections and understanding. We must break down communication barriers, making our services more accessible and relatable.
We must engage with our community in ways that resonate with them—through informal platforms, humour, and culturally relevant content. Imagine using platforms like TikTok to connect with younger audiences, sharing messages in Torres Strait Islander Creole that reflect our daily lives and challenges. This approach can dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and create a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking help.
Cultural safety is the cornerstone of our work. It’s about creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable and genuinely respected, like they’re entering a family home. We aim to ensure everyone who walks through our doors feels embraced, not judged. That’s the difference with Wakai Waian Healing. We are a Torres Strait Islander-owned and operated Organisation.
My commitment to learning and growing at work and alongside my community is unwavering as I continue my studies and work. We can create a more inclusive and effective support system by sharing our experiences and understanding each other’s cultures. My journey is not just about personal growth; it’s about uplifting my people and ensuring they have a voice and the resources they need to thrive.
Every day, I am reminded of why I chose this path. I want to be the support I never had during my struggles. I want to be the person who listens, understands, and advocates for those who feel lost. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community, where everyone has the opportunity to heal, grow, and flourish. If you are on NDIS or need mental health support, I urge you to reach out to us at Wakai Waian Healing on Thursday Island.