WHO WE ARE
Culture, Knowledge and Practice Working Together
Top End Two Ways Services Inc. is an Indigenous-governed and First Nations-led organisation based in the Northern Territory. We work alongside communities, organisations and services to strengthen safety, capability, wellbeing and self-determination.
Our work is grounded in First Nations leadership, cultural knowledge, lived experience and deep listening. We bring this together with contemporary evidence and professional practice to create responses that are practical, respectful and relevant to the people and places involved.
Our Purpose
Building Strong, Healthy and Self-Determined Communities
We support people, communities and organisations to build knowledge, confidence and practical capability. Lasting change is created with communities through relationships, local leadership and strengths-based approaches.
Strong, healthy and self-determined communities where cultural knowledge is respected, people are safe, and local strengths and leadership shape the future.
Our Vision
Our Two Ways Approach
Two Ways means bringing together First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing with contemporary professional knowledge and practice. Both inform how TETWS works.
In practice, we:
- listen deeply before proposing solutions
- recognise Traditional Owners, Elders and local cultural authority
- respect each community’s own priorities, relationships and preferred ways of working
- value lived experience and community knowledge alongside evidence and professional expertise
- pay First Nations people fairly for cultural knowledge, advice and participation
- adapt programs through consultation and co-design
- support local capability, employment and leadership wherever possible
Our Values
Respect
We recognise the dignity, knowledge, lived experience and contribution of every person.
Self-determination
We support the right of First Nations people and communities to make decisions about the matters that affect them.
Deep listening
We take time to hear what people and communities are saying and respond to local priorities.
Two Ways learning
We learn as we share knowledge, bringing cultural and professional perspectives together.
Cultural integrity
We respect cultural authority, local protocols and Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property.
Accountability
We are responsible to the communities, participants, partners and organisations with whom we work.
How We Work
Our work is practical, strengths-based, trauma-informed and grounded in relationships. We work with partners and communities to understand what is needed, who should be involved and how the work should be delivered.
Cultural Governance
Cultural governance is embedded in planning, decision-making, engagement and delivery. TETWS recognises local cultural authority, protects Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property and supports fair remuneration for cultural advice, facilitation, artistic contribution, mentorship and knowledge sharing.
Our Identity
The Dragonfly
In the Top End, the dragonfly heralds the changing of the seasons. It represents transformation, adaptability, hope and possibility. For TETWS, it reflects learning, growth and the strength created when people and communities recognise their own knowledge and potential.
Our Colours
Blue represents water and its essential place in the life of Top End communities. Ochre represents earth, Country and enduring connection to land. Together, the colours reflect balance, place and the Two Ways approach.
Acknowledgement of Country
Top End Two Ways Services Inc. acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters where we live, learn and work. We pay respect to Elders past and present and recognise the continuing strength of cultures, languages, knowledge systems and connections to Country.
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Let’s Work Together
If you’re ready to create a safer, more supportive workplace, we’re here to help.
Get in touch today to learn more about our sessions or tailor something to your team.