Serena is a respected Elder, community leader and youth mentor in Palmerston, Northern Territory. She was born in Darwin and has lived in Palmerston for 22 years. Her Father’s mother’s country is Dalabon (Beswick and Barunga) and her father’s Country is Gurindji.

In 2017, Serena founded the Grassroots Action Palmerston (GAP) community advocacy group, responding to the need she saw for a collaborative and constructive response to youth crime and the associated disadvantage and division in Palmerston community. Grassroots Action Palmerston has now evolved into Grassroots Youth Engagement, which aims to support and create opportunities for the young people who need it most.

Serena plays a key role in educating our participants on the cultural considerations vital for engaging safely and respectfully with Aboriginal people.

She provides detailed insight into the complexities that exist between remote and urban Aboriginal communities—highlighting the differing histories, social structures, and expectations that influence behaviour, communication, and engagement.

Serena supports learners in understanding how cultural protocols, decision-making hierarchies, and collective community responsibilities vary from one place to another.

Serena’s training is critical to ensuring all PPS programs are delivered with cultural integrity, respect, and the depth of understanding required to work effectively across diverse Aboriginal contexts.