Rachel Kraan

Leadership that heals

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Community-based programs are saturated with complex trauma, crisis, and political sensitivity, resulting in significant staff burnout and countless stories of vicarious traumatisation. Because of this, it is imperative that protective systems and processes are embedded within the foundations of community programs to ensure workers are protected whilst they themselves protect the community.
One foundational protective system within the community sector are the leaders. Leadership within community work is vital as it ensures seamless daily functioning and acts to protect high levels of safety of both its staff and service users.

Exploration and implementation of Indigenous practices create opportunity for connection and harness innovation which is integral to the quality and impact of community-based programs. Through the decolonisation and redesign of leadership, there is a possibility of counteracting vicarious traumatisation with vicarious healing. Leaning in on indigenous healing practices of deep listening, and connection to others, it can empower marginalised communities to ensure strong advocacy that is inclusive for all people whilst promoting values of safety, equity and human rights. Or as Tristan Shultz said “Dig where you stand”

I used this assignment to lean in on my passion of diverse voices and inclusivity, and create a form of communication that was accessible and inclusive for everyone. As a leader, I think it is vital that your ability to engage and connect with your team in diverse ways is integral to genuine and impactful leadership.
For this video, my audience is emerging leaders of the AOD community sector to introduce ways of incorporating indigenous practice into their everyday leadership.