Renee Tomkinson

Regional Manager, Eastern Region

What inspired you to work with Community First Development?

The philosophy of Community First Development. We work with community to reach their goals, the things that are important to their community are important to us. I think this is a unique and empowering way of working with our mob.

What is a recent project you’ve been involved in?

A project that I have been involved in recently is one working with a fairly new board of directors, assisting in the development of a five year strategic plan, working alongside the board and a Community First Development volunteer to develop this plan. Watching the board become more confident as they begin to see what they want to achieve is reachable has been inspirational.

What is most rewarding about your work as a Regional Manager?

The most rewarding part of my work is being able to work with our mob on the ground. They are not just communities we work with, partners and stakeholders but after years of working with these communities it’s like we become part of an extended family. Having that connection to the community, people and culture is truly inspiring.

What have you learnt from working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities?

I have learnt how amazing they are with governance and how these organisations walk in two worlds. They meet the needs of mainstream governance by delivering on their outcomes to funding bodies and fulfilling their requirements at the same time as delivering these services with respect to community, culture and lore.