Meet Rochelle Williams, a Counsellor in our Indigenous Healing Services team, who was recently honoured with the Inspirational Indigenous Champion Award at the Pilbara Community Services Excellence Awards.
At MacKillop, we are privileged to work alongside people whose quiet strength and deep compassion make a lasting impact. One of those individuals is Rochelle Williams, a Counsellor in our Indigenous Healing Services team, who was recently honoured with the Inspirational Indigenous Champion Award at the Pilbara Community Services Excellence Awards.
Rochelle joined MacKillop in 2023, beginning in an administrative support role. From the outset, her empathy, cultural integrity and commitment to trauma-informed care were evident. Today, she works as a Counsellor, supporting children, young people and families with a calm, grounded presence that fosters healing and trust.
Her approach is deeply respectful and inclusive. Rochelle builds strong therapeutic relationships and creates safe spaces where people feel seen and heard. Her deep local knowledge and lived experience guide her practice, and her commitment to Cultural Safety is professional, personal and unwavering.
“I feel so positive about this award. It was great to get the recognition in the community.
Though it can be hard work, my passion for helping people drives me. Being an Indigenous woman myself, seeing the benefits of what we do in the community is so rewarding,” Rochelle says.
Beyond her role at MacKillop, Rochelle is a devoted mother of four and a dedicated student. She leads healing-focused work across multiple programs, including Seasons for Growth, and mentors young girls through local football, helping build confidence, resilience and connection.
Rochelle’s leadership is quiet but powerful. She doesn’t seek recognition, yet her impact is felt deeply by those around her. Her award reflects the meaningful work she does every day.
“The future is looking great and I’m looking forward to continuing to walk alongside my clients in their journeys.” Rochelle adds.
We are proud of Rochelle, and grateful for the opportunity to support and celebrate her. Her story reminds us that with compassion and determination, anything is possible.