Jenny Sala Reflects on 19 Years of Trailblazing Impact in the Aboriginal Health Sector

After an illustrious 19-year journey dedicated to the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA), Executive Manager of Business Development, Jenny Sala, bids AHCWA farewell. While her departure leaves a void at AHCWA, there is a glimmer of excitement as Jenny ventures to the East Pilbara region to continue her advocacy and mission to drive change within the Aboriginal Health Sector at Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service.

Jenny’s tenure at AHCWA has been nothing short of remarkable. Contributing tirelessly to the mission of improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal communities across Western Australia, her passion, expertise, and commitment has left an unforgettable mark on our organisation and the wider Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Sector.

Since joining AHCWA in 2005, her career has evolved to encompass a wide array of responsibilities and accomplishments. As a dedicated advocate she has actively supported the efforts of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations in Western Australia and provided support and long term stability for Member Services.

Jenny’s impact extends beyond the local level to encompass both state and national representation, with a strong commitment to creating systemic change. Through countless governance training sessions for member Boards and active engagement in membership drives, she has helped shape the future of Aboriginal health governance.

Among her many achievements, was the development of the ACCHS Social and Emotional Wellbeing Model of Care in 2019. This important piece of work stands out as a testament to her vision and dedication.

Jenny has contributed substantial efforts towards making AHCWA as successful and sustainable as it is today. Jenny was pivotal in securing the building that AHCWA owns and calls home today.

Reflecting on her time, Jenny commented “My time at AHCWA has given me a chance to make a difference and hopefully contributed to the impact of having a peak body like AHCWA in Western Australia”.

“It has also expanded my knowledge and experience in a sector I had absolutely no idea of before I joined”, she added.

Jenny’s unwavering dedication and leadership have been instrumental in many initiatives and projects, including securing the funding for the Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service.

AHCWA’s Chairperson Vicki O’Donnell OAM sad that while Jenny’s departure saddens us, we are grateful for her many years of service and profound impact.

“We find comfort in knowing that Jenny is not leaving the sector and is continuing her mission to make an impact on Aboriginal people on the ground at PAMS,” Ms O’Donnell said.

“We wish Jenny all the best in her future endeavors and know that her passion for improving Aboriginal health, driving social change and promoting justice and equity will continue to inspire others wherever she goes”.

For further inquiries or to share well-wishes, please get in touch with AHCWA’s People and Culture Team [email protected]