Rowena Lawrie
Director, Yumarrah

Rowena, is the Director and Founder of Yamurrah, a Collective made up of @ 30 esteemed First Nations people, culturally and professionally diverse.

The Yamurrah Collective comprises nurses, social workers, psychologists, lawyers, teachers, trauma specialists and academics, each specialising in unique fields such as professional development, therapy, project management, leadership, research and evaluation. With close to three decades of illustrious experience as a clinical social worker, Rowena’s journey is marked by a commitment to addressing complex and collective systemic trauma and injustices. Her professional background in social work, law, complemented by a profound nerdiness and studies in neuroscience, shapes her holistic approach to her work.

Currently pursuing her PhD at Sydney University, Rowena’s dedication to academia and research underscores her unwavering passion for social justice and systemic transformation. She grew up and resides on sacred Darkinjung Country, and is a descendant of Wakka Wakka and Wiradjuri nations, and her matriarchal lines extending to North Leichhardt River, Gulf of Carpentaria. As a devoted mother, daughter, sister, Aunty, cousin and friend, and enthusiast of hiking, dance, arts and theatre, Rowena finds inspiration in Country, connection and various forms of creative expressions.

Recipient of the esteemed 2023 Aboriginal Social Worker of the Year award from the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), Rowena’s tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to advancing trauma-informed care and social justice exemplify her impactful contributions to the field