Tjunkaya Ken Social Worker

Social Worker | Narrative Therapist Founder, Inura Tjunkaya Ken is a Pitjantjatjara (Aṉangu) woman from the APY Lands, with strong family and cultural connections to the Amata community. She is the founder of Inura, her own First Nations business, and brings her cultural knowledge, lived experience and professional practice together in the way she supports people. Culture is central to who Tjunkaya is and guides the way she listens, builds relationships and walks alongside the people she supports. Tjunkaya holds a Master of Narrative Therapy and Community Work and a Bachelor of Social Work. She also holds a current Working with Children and national police Clearances and brings extensive experience working with First Nations people across urban, rural and very remote communities throughout South Australia. Her previous frontline work has included supporting individuals and families experiencing mental health challenges, family and domestic violence, grief and loss, alcohol and other drug concerns, homelessness, trauma and complex social circumstances. Tjunkaya’s therapeutic approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, culturally responsive and strengths-based. Drawing particularly on narrative therapy, she believes that people are the experts in their own lives. She supports clients to explore the stories and experiences that have shaped them, while reconnecting with their strengths, values, identity and hopes for the future. As an Aṉangu woman, Tjunkaya understands that wellbeing can be deeply connected to culture, family, kinship, Country, spirituality and community. She also recognises the ongoing impacts of colonisation, intergenerational trauma and systemic disadvantage, while honouring the strength, resilience and cultural knowledge held within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Deep listening is an important part of Tjunkaya’s practice. She takes the time to understand each person’s experiences, needs and goals, adapting her communication, pace and approach to the individual rather than using a one-size-fits-all model. Above all, Tjunkaya works to create a culturally safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where people can bring their whole selves, feel heard and respected, and make choices about their own healing and wellbeing. Tjunkaya is also a member and former Director of Iwiri Aboriginal Corporation and maintains strong connections with community. Through Inura and her work with BilaEmpower, she brings together culture, social work and narrative therapy to provide culturally grounded support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and families.