We are proud to announce the first two recipients of the 2025 gamadji nanggit Scholarship: Dr Cassandra Geeman and Dr Chris Henry.

Dr Cassandra Geeman

Dr Geeman is a Southern Kaantju woman of Cape York Peninsula with connections to Waanyi people in western Queensland and the border of Northern Territory, as well as being of Malaysian descent. She is a Stage 2 Trainee in the Central Coast and Northern Sydney training network and accepted by the Muluridji people where she was raised in Far North Queensland. Dr Geeman relocated to New South Wales where she completed her medical degree at the University of Newcastle in 2021.

“As an Indigenous doctor with a passion for advancing Indigenous Health, I believe strong, values-based leadership is essential to creating equitable, culturally safe care. Growing up rurally in a low socio-economic setting, I’ve seen firsthand how system barriers and social determinants shape health outcomes. The Emerging Leader Program, supported by the gamadji nanggit scholarship, offers an opportunity to deepen my knowledge in clinical governance, strengthen my voice in advocacy and grow as a leader committed to holistic, community-led care. I’m driven to help shape a health system where all people – especially those historically marginalised – can access care that recognises their dignity, culture and full humanity.”

Dr Chris Henry

Dr Henry is a proud Walbunja man of the Yuin nation and a Stage Two psychiatry trainee based at Albury Wodonga Health.

Born and raised on Wadi Wadi Country in Nowra, he maintains strong ties with his family and community. Dr Henry entered medicine as a mature-aged Aboriginal student and completed his medical degree at the University of Newcastle in 2021. 

“As an indigenous RANZCP trainee I am passionate about improving mental health outcomes for indigenous communities. My background and experiences provide me with unique insights into the cultural, social and systemic challenges my people face. committed to becoming a leader in Indigenous mental health, and I believe completing a leadership course will support that goal.”