Who we are
Embers of Healing is led by two First Nations social workers who bring together professional expertise, cultural knowledge, and lived experience to support healing across individuals, communities, and organisations.
Our emblem incorporates smoke as cleansing and healing through Culture and ceremony; practices that have been present since the first sunrise.
Our name reflects the embers that remain after the fire, carrying warmth, strength, and story across generations. Across many First Nations cultures, fire represents connection, knowledge, and community. Embers symbolise the continuation of strength, the passing of cultural wisdom and care, and the enduring presence of healing across generations.
Our work is grounded in cultural integrity, trauma- and violence-informed practice, humility, and a strong commitment to social justice and ethical social work values. We are guided by human rights frameworks, including the rights of children and young people.
We envision a future where children and young people, individuals, communities, and organisations are protected from harm and supported to heal through culturally grounded, trauma-informed, and human rights-based practice. A future where stories are held with care and compassion, and collective healing is supported.
We work closely with communities and organisations who share these values, strengthening culturally safe and trauma-informed practice and supporting pathways toward collective healing and transformative change.
Our Team
Bethany Roberts (she/her) is a proud Aboriginal Social Worker from the Yuin Nation (Nowra, NSW) and Co-founder of Embers of Healing.
As a First Nations Social Worker, her work sits at the intersection of trauma, workforce wellbeing, cultural safety, and systemic change.
Bethany has worked across non-government organisations, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, and NSW Health, with experience in counselling, case management, group facilitation, complex trauma, and crisis intervention. Her practice is grounded in culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and trauma- and violence-informed approaches.
Locky Bygrave (he/him) is a Gomeroi man, Social worker, PhD candidate, and Co-founder of Embers of Healing.
Recognised as a Top Four Finalist in the 2025 7NEWS Young Indigenous Leadership Award (NSW/ACT).
Locky has worked across non-government and government sector with experience in counselling, crisis support, case management, leadership and management and training development and training.
Locky continues to advocate for systems change, ensuring the rights of children and First Nations peoples are upheld, not just in policy, but in practice, community, and everyday life.
“Healing is a sovereign right, as First Nations people...our healing practices have always existed since the first sunrise.” - Locky Bygrave
Embers of Healing does not provide a crisis service
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, please call 000 immediately.
Lifeline: 24/7 free, confidential crisis counselling and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14
13YARN: 24/7 free and confidential crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13 92 76
Suicide Call Back Service: 24/7 support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. Call 1300 659 467
Thirrili: 24/7 support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the aftermath of suicide or other fatal critical incidents. Call 1800 805 801.
Contact us
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