NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures. This year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, honours five decades of strength, pride and community-led change, and invites reflection on the value of First Nations voices, expertise and influence in mental health.

“This week is a time to recognise the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the work still ahead. In psychiatry, we need more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors bringing knowledge, experience and connection to community into clinical care, service design, education and leadership. That change needs to happen at every level of the profession.”

– Dr Marshall Watson, Chair, RANZCP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee

The gamadji nanggit Scholarship supports this work. Named with the guidance of Wurundjeri Elders, gamadji nanggit means 'emerging leader' and supports members to build confidence and skills through the AMA Victoria Emerging Leader Program and individual coaching.

Established in 2021 through the generosity and vision of Dr Alagappa Arumugam AM FRANZCP and Dr Banu Arumugam, the scholarship has supported seven members to date. Open again in 2026, the scholarship continues to play a meaningful role in helping more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors grow within the profession.

The 2025 recipients, Dr Cassandra Geeman and Dr Chris Henry, reflected on the value of the program.

“The AMA Emerging Leader Program strengthened my confidence to advocate for equitable, culturally safe healthcare and contribute to meaningful health system reform.”

– Dr Cassandra Geeman

“This program has been highly valuable for my transition to a consultant mindset. It bridges the gap between clinical psychiatry training and the practical leadership required to run multidisciplinary teams.”

– Dr Chris Henry

Applications are open until Monday 31 August 2026. Eligible members are encouraged to learn more about the gamadji nanggit Scholarship and apply.