DAMIEN RALPHS
FIRST NATIONS PERSON OF THE YEAR
NOMINATED FOR
Virginia
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How would you describe yourself or your work in one sentence?
Gunnai/Kurnai and Wotjobulok Warrior championing Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health, Arts and Culture
Tell us a little about what you do
Damien is Currently Working as Principal Project and Partnerships Officer for Preventive Health SA. Damien is Co-Chair for Pride Foundation Australia's Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, South Sea Islander Advisor Committee and Board Member of Pride Foundation Australia. Damien has previously dedicated 5 years to Feast Festivals Artistic Advisory Committee and continues to champion Aboriginal LGBTIQA+ Cultural Lense application to all his work and personal commitments within the community. Damien Has previously been a Health Promotion Officer with Thorne Harbour Health (SAMESH) and Shine SA. Promotion STI and BBV Health and Screening and Postvention Support and health and wellbeing.
What impact or achievement are you most proud of this year?
Co - Chair Pride Foundation ATSSSI Advisory Committee - Providing Grants to ATSSSI LGTBIQA+ Community (National)
Provide grants and Partnerships to Aboriginal and Community Controlled Organisations
Provide Partnerships to Peak bodies across Close the Gap Commitments and Reform
Champion Inclusion for community in Adelaide Pride March and Feast Festival
Previous Producer and Performer in Feast Event "Nungay Nite".
Initiate Drama Down Under Campaign on South Australian Public Transport System (Trains, Buses and Trams)
Why does your work matter to the community?
The work I do provides financial contributions and avenues for increased visibility and inclusion amongst the Rainbow community for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. Increases connectedness and reduces Isolations. Promotes Urban, Regional and Remote activations. Outside of this work also supporting the Wider LGBTIQA+ community and Lense within Health and Wellbeing Priorities.
What would you like voters to know when voting for you?
Since attending Queer Youth Drop at the Age of 16, 24 years ago, I have continued to champion LGBTIQA+ people in all my work and personal Commitments for the betterment of the community. By the community for the community! Long Live art and Culture.