Tackling violence fundamental to health says AMA Indigenous scholarship winner

An Aboriginal woman determined to become the first Aboriginal doctor specialising in Indigenous child protection issues has won the 2012 AMA Indigenous Peoples’ Medical Scholarship.

AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, today awarded Glenda Brown the scholarship in Melbourne.

Ms Brown, a third year Bachelor of Medicine student at the University of Newcastle, is passionate about improving the health of Indigenous communities, particularly the health of women and children.

Ms Brown is a Koori woman and a descendant of the Wiradjuri people of northwest New South Wales.

“My future lies in Aboriginal health, in particular, women and children’s health.” Ms Brown said.

“I genuinely believe that health is the biggest issue facing Aboriginal communities today, with the flow-on effects having a major and profound impact on people’s lives.

“I want to address the myths and ignorance that surround Aboriginal health, and want to educate my people by giving them the skills to identify and manage illness at the community level.

“One of the most important issues facing Aboriginal people is family and community violence.

“I believe violence in our communities undermines every health care strategy and breeds silence and shame, which affects the whole community.”

Dr Hambleton said the scholarship is designed to encourage and support Indigenous students who are preparing for careers in medicine, particularly those intending to work in Indigenous communities.

“The AMA acknowledges the unique contribution of Indigenous health professionals to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous people,” Dr Hambleton said.

Valued at $9000 for each year of study, the scholarship provides support and encouragement for Indigenous students studying medicine.

The scholarship was established in 1995 with a contribution from the Commonwealth Government.

CONTACT:         John Flannery                       02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761

                       Kirsty Waterford                    02 6270 5464 / 0427 209 753

Follow all the action at the AMA National Conference on Twitter: #amanc2012

Follow the AMA Media on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ama_media
Follow the AMA President on Twitter: http://twitter.com/amapresident