What about Lore? The place of lore in Social and Emotional Wellbeing research, planning and work

Seminar Overview

Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) frameworks, like those of Gee et al. (2014), have been instrumental in educating non-Indigenous people about the holistic nature of First Nations health. However, these models often serve as introductory tools and may not fully capture the depth of lore-informed approaches that have been central to First Nations peoples'  ways of knowing being and doing for thousands of years. In this keynote, Dr Clinton Schultz draws from his PhD research to differentiate between SEWB models constructed for external audiences and those deeply rooted in lore. Through Gamilaraay epistemology, he will explore how lore informs every aspect of a connected being—mind, body, spirit, with other and place across time and space.  By embracing principles of lore in SEWB research, planning, and work we continue the process of decolonisation begun by Raphael and Swan, and continued by Gee et al in the health and mental health sectors. 

Speaker

Dr Clinton Schultz, a Gamilaraay man and recognised as a 'cultural innovator,' was honored with a PhD from Griffith University in 2019 for his thesis on the holistic well-being of the Aboriginal health and community workforce, receiving high academic accolades including the Chancellors medal. Dr Schultz has written and presented extensively on the concept of social and emotional wellbeing from an Aboriginal perspective. As a relentless entrepreneur and advocate for positive community impact, he consults on cultural responsiveness and supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through his various roles.

A practicing psychologist and the Director of First Nations Strategy and Partnerships at the Blackdog Institute, Clinton previously taught as an Assistant Professor at Bond University and founded Marumali Consultations to bridge the gap in culturally responsive mental health services. His entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of Sobah, a non-alcoholic craft beer brand, showcasing his versatility and commitment to social ventures alongside family life.

Clinton has contributed significantly to professional bodies, including the Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association and the Indigenous Allied Health Association, reflecting his deep commitment to First Nation’s well-being, cultural heritage, and environmental health. His achievements include receiving Griffith University's Most Outstanding First Nations Alumnus Award and the IAHA Health Professional of the Year. A spirited competitor, Clinton enjoys motorbiking, surfing, rock climbing, and has participated in Australian Ninja Warrior and UNAA Ninja Championships, demonstrating his dynamic and multifaceted life.