2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
Niki Gent’s professional journey is a vibrant tapestry woven from threads of resilience, profound knowledge, and an ever-burning drive to uplift the marginalized. With a storied career enriching the domains of family and child services on both domestic and international fronts, Niki has emerged as a beacon of hope and change. Her academic arsenal is both diverse and deep, boasting a Master’s Degree in Business, a Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology, and a Master’s in Social Work, each degree a milestone on her path of relentless pursuit of excellence and empathy.
Her narrative takes root in her early days, facing the world as a mother at 16. Despite the absence of a high school certificate in her early years, Niki’s spirit refused to bow to circumstance. This indomitable will saw her ascend through academia and professional realms, transforming every setback into a stepping stone towards her illustrious career that now spans over twenty fruitful years. Niki Gent’s name has become synonymous with trauma-informed care—a field where her voice rings loud and clear, blending experiential wisdom with academic rigor. Her advocacy and work extend a special focus towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness, where she embodies the essence of empathy, respect, and deep understanding. At the helm of Family and Child Consultants, an organization celebrated for its groundbreaking work in trauma-informed training, Niki has steered her team to impact over 3,000 professionals in the past two years. These professionals, working across the spectrum of family violence, youth in care, and assisting disadvantaged Australians, have benefitted from her innovative leadership and vision.
Beyond her tangible achievements, Niki has also ventured into authorship, where her pen mirrors her passion, drawing from a well of personal and professional experiences to guide and inspire. Her writings are not just reflections but lanterns in the dark for those navigating the complex landscapes of trauma and recovery. As a mother and grandmother, Niki’s life is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of nurturing growth in every sphere she touches. Her journey is a compelling narrative of overcoming, giving, and transforming lives—a narrative that continues to inspire and lead by example. In essence, Niki Gent is not just a professional in her field; she is a pioneer, a storyteller, and a guardian of the human spirit, championing the cause of the vulnerable with every step she takes. Her legacy is etched not only in the accolades she has received but in the countless lives she has touched and transformed.
// Favourite inspirational quote
Maya Angelou, an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, says, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” This quote encapsulates the idea of personal growth and ethical evolution, emphasizing the importance of continuously improving oneself based on new knowledge and understanding. Maya Angelou’s words encourage us to forgive ourselves for past mistakes made in ignorance and to commit to better actions once we gain awareness.
// Let’s get to know you
I am the founder and principal consultant at Family and Child Consultants, an award-winning organization specializing in trauma-informed training, services, and consultancy. My path to this point has been one of resilience, continuous learning, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those facing adversity. My academic journey was unconventional. I became a mother at the age of 16, which significantly shaped my early adult life. Despite not graduating high school at that time, I was determined to overcome the challenges I faced. This determination propelled me through an academic and professional journey that I could have only dreamed of as a young mother. I pursued higher education with fervor studying and working (both full-time) whilst raising 4 children , earning a Master’s Degree in Business, a Graduate Diploma in Forensic Psychology, and a Master’s in Social Work. Each step of my academic journey was driven by a desire not just to improve my circumstances, but also to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to support and uplift others.
Professionally, I have spent over two decades dedicated to family and child services, working across Australia, Nauru, and Papua New Guinea. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the complexities of trauma and the importance of culturally informed care but have also underscored the universal need for empathy, understanding, and support.
My role at Family and Child Consultants is the culmination of my experiences and learning. Here, we focus on changing lives through trauma-informed training, aiming to empower professionals who work with family violence, young people in care, and disadvantaged Australians. Over the past two years, we have trained over 3,000 staff, a testament to our team’s dedication and the pressing need for this kind of education and support. Currently, I am focusing on expanding our training programs and consultancy services to reach more organizations and communities. The goal is to not just respond to trauma but to anticipate and prevent it through informed practices and policies. Additionally, I am working on several writing projects aimed at sharing insights and strategies from my years of practice and research. These projects are designed to support both professionals in the field and individuals seeking to understand and navigate their own experiences of trauma. My journey, marked by personal challenges and professional achievements, reflects my belief in the power of resilience, education, and compassion. I am committed to continuing my work, learning, and sharing knowledge with the hope of contributing to a more understanding and supportive society.
// What makes you a Women to Watch for 2024?
Being recognized as a “Woman to Watch for 2024” is both an honor and a testament to the journey I’ve embarked upon—a journey not just of personal triumph but of collective empowerment and healing. In my corner of the world, I am deeply committed to transforming the way individuals and organizations understand and respond to trauma, especially within vulnerable populations. This passion is not just a professional pursuit; it’s a personal mission shaped by my own experiences and the resilience I’ve witnessed in others.
What sets me apart, perhaps, is my unconventional path to where I am today. My story began with challenges that might have defined my future. However, these experiences became the bedrock of my empathy, determination, and commitment to change. They taught me the importance of understanding, compassion, and tailored support—lessons that are now central to my work. At Family and Child Consultants, my team and I are pioneering trauma-informed practices that not only address the symptoms but also the root causes of trauma. Our approach is holistic, combining the latest research with practical, on-the-ground experiences to offer training and consultancy services that make a real difference. Over the last two years, we’ve trained over 3,000 professionals, equipping them with the tools to better support those affected by family violence, displacement, and disadvantage.
My focus extends beyond professional training; it’s about fostering a community of care that understands the nuances of trauma and the power of resilience. This involves creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported, enabling them to navigate their healing journeys with dignity and strength. Moreover, my role as a thought leader and author allows me to share insights and strategies far and wide, advocating for systemic change and increased awareness around mental health and trauma. Through writing and speaking engagements, I aim to challenge stigmas, encourage open dialogue, and inspire action that leads to lasting impact.
What perhaps makes me a “quiet achiever” is my belief in the transformative power of small, consistent actions. Change doesn’t always come with fanfare; often, it’s the result of diligent, behind-the-scenes work—listening, learning, and adapting. My commitment is to continue this work, to keep pushing boundaries and challenging norms, with the hope of creating a more compassionate and understanding world. As we look towards 2024, my vision is to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and continue to innovate in the field of trauma-informed care. It’s about building on the foundations we’ve laid and pursuing new avenues for growth and change. I am passionate about this journey and humbled by the recognition as a “Woman to Watch,” seeing it not as a personal accolade but as a reflection of the collective effort and shared vision of everyone involved in this vital work.
// What are you most looking forward to in 2024?
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our series of children’s books, designed specifically to aid parents, guardians, and educators in navigating difficult conversations with children. Our collection, including titles such as “Simmy and Grandpa,” “A Star’s Lullaby,” “Alex’s Brave Adventure,” and more, promises to be an invaluable resource for those looking to discuss complex topics in a sensitive, understanding, and engaging manner. Each book in our series has been thoughtfully crafted to address challenging subjects with the warmth, care, and empathy necessary to reach young minds. Whether it’s dealing with loss, understanding diversity, facing fears, or embracing change, our stories are tailored to help children process their feelings and questions in a safe and comforting environment. “Simmy and Grandpa” explores the themes of aging and loss through the tender relationship between a child and their grandparent, teaching children about the cycle of life with gentleness and love. “A Star’s Lullaby” helps little ones understand and cope with the concept of sibling loss, providing reassurance through the story of a star watching over them. “Alex’s Brave Adventure” is a tale of courage and resilience, encouraging children to face their fears and reminding them of their inner strength in overcoming obstacles.
Our aim with this series is not only to provide stories that children will find captivating and relatable but also to offer tools for parents and educators to initiate these essential conversations. We understand the importance of building a foundation of trust and openness with children from an early age, and we believe that through storytelling, we can bridge the gap between complex issues and young learners’ understanding. We are looking forward to bringing these stories to your homes and classrooms, fostering meaningful discussions, and supporting the development of emotionally intelligent and resilient children.
// What would being a Woman to Watch for 2024 mean to you?
This is a lovely acknowledgement and affirmation from a good friend who submitted the nomination, because she has witnessed a lot of the hard work behind the scenes, and I really appreciate that. This is also a great opportunity to reflect on where I and Pod have come from, where we are now, and where we are going. I’m excited to be able to share that more broadly with the community and believe that sharing stories is how we create change, so I hope that being a Woman to Watch will help me to connect with others who may benefit from what we do and how we do it.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
Envisioning an ideal future for South Australian women and girls, I see a society where equality, empowerment, and opportunity are not just ideals but lived realities. This future is one where every woman and girl can pursue her dreams without barriers, where her voice is heard and respected, and where her contributions are valued equally. Achieving this vision requires concerted efforts across various dimensions.
Achieving this ideal future requires the collective effort of individuals, communities, businesses, and governments. It involves: Educating ourselves and others about gender equality and taking active steps to challenge stereotypes and biases. Supporting initiatives and organizations that work towards empowering women and girls. Advocating for policies and practices that promote gender equality and holding leaders accountable for making meaningful changes. Creating inclusive spaces where women and girls can share their experiences, aspirations, and challenges without fear of judgment or discrimination. Together, we can build a future where South Australian women and girls are empowered to lead, innovate, and thrive in a society that values and supports them at every step.
Get in touch with Niki:
LinkedIn: Niki Gent
Website: www.familyandchildconsultants.com
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.
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