News

Barb Cohen is the Aboriginal Program Manager at SHINE for Kids and a very proud Dunghutti Woman from Kempsey NSW where she was born, raised and still lives today.

Throughout her 30-plus years working in the local community, Barb held positions with the Credit Union, Aboriginal Legal Service and Booroongen Djugun, and has been with SHINE for Kids since 2010.

Barb is passionate about the work she does and, having lived experience herself, is determined to support families and reduce intergenerational trauma so children can live in a safe and healthy environment.

Her team facilitates “Belonging to Family” (BTF), a unique and culturally appropriate program for Aboriginal Men and Women at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre.

Barb and her team have strong relationships with local government and non-government agencies and advocate for families in the justice system.

Barb was recognised for her invaluable contribution to the region at the Women of the Macleay Awards in 2013 and was AbSec’s NSW Aboriginal Child and Family Awards “Practitioner of the Year” in 2020. This award recognises an Aboriginal practitioner’s excellence in achieving positive outcomes for Aboriginal children, families and communities.