BilaEmpower

BilaEmpower, Warida Wholistic Wellness, and Legacy Counselling and Consultancy have come together to deliver a series of transformative trauma-informed workshops and wellbeing programs. This unique collaboration is driven by a shared commitment to empowering First Nations communities through culturally safe, holistic, and trauma-informed approaches.

This partnership combines the strengths of three leading First Nations organisations, BilaEmpower, Warida Wholistic Wellness, and Legacy Counselling and Consultancy: 

An Indigenous social enterprise based on Kaurna Country (South Australia) and operating internationally, Warida Wholistic Wellness integrates ancient Indigenous healing methods with Allied Health (mental health) and wellbeing practices. Warida is committed to facilitating healing on Country, decolonising health systems, and empowering women globally to embrace their healing journey on their own terms.

Led by Tod Stokes, Legacy Counselling and Consultancy provides culturally safe counselling services that honour and respect First Nations traditions. The consultancy specialises in trauma-informed approaches that recognise the strength, resilience, and healing power inherent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Our First Nations-led trauma-informed workshops are designed to address the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Each workshop is grounded in our personal and professional experiences and in a deep respect for cultural knowledge, practices, and protocols, ensuring that participants feel seen, heard, and supported in a safe and inclusive environment.

Key Workshop Themes:

• Cultural Connection: Explore the importance of connecting with Country, community, and culture as a foundation for healing.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Understand the impact of intergenerational trauma and develop skills to provide trauma-informed support that respects cultural safety.
• First Nations Worldviews: Learn about the differences between Western and First Nations worldviews, and how these perspectives shape approaches to wellbeing and therapeutic practices.
• Indigenous Healing Practices: Engage with First Nations healing methods, including yarning circles, storytelling, and the incorporation of cultural practices and approaches into the therapeutic process.

Our workshops are facilitated by First Nations Allied Health professionals with lived experience, who understand the unique challenges and strengths within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We provide a safe learning environment where cultural identity is respected and celebrated.

The workshops draw on the ancient wisdom of First Nations cultures, integrating Indigenous Healing practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches. Participants will leave with practical skills that honour the depth and richness of First Nations knowledge.

We believe in the power of coming together (gudu-guduwa) to learn, heal, and grow. Our workshops are community-driven, focusing on building capacity and fostering resilience within individuals, families, and communities.

Our First Nations-led trauma-informed workshops are designed to address the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This 2 or 3 day workshop aims to establish the foundation of First Nations therapeutic skills by exploring the concept of the Ancient University and developing culturally appropriate counselling approaches. 

 The Young Learners Wellbeing Immersive Experience is a holistic initiative designed to nurture the emotional, physical, and cultural wellbeing of young learners. Through a series of engaging and interactive sessions, this program aims to equip participants with essential life skills while fostering a deeper connection to self, others, and culture. This 5 session experience is structured for middle - senior school children.