Mum’s the word: Gabs and Kaz’s Story at IUIH

“If she can inspire me, maybe I can inspire others too.”

For Gabs Benchetrit, working at the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH) means following in the footsteps of a real-life Wonder Woman: her mum.  

Now approaching three years with IUIH, Gabs first joined the organisation after encouragement from her mum, Kaz, who works as a Project Officer for Pathways Our Way Academy (POWA) at IUIH. Starting in reception at the Windsor office, Gabs quickly found herself drawn to the strong sense of community across the organisation.  

“I loved the culture, all the people who work within IUIH and how we connect with Mob,” Gabs said. “I just saw myself growing within the organisation.”   

Since then, Gabs has continued to grow both personally and professionally. After transitioning to a role in the Palliative Care team, Gabs knew what her next step would be.  

“I loved the job so much. It kind of convinced me to become a nurse.”    

Now juggling part-time work alongside study, as she works towards her Bachelor of Nursing, Gabs said much of her drive comes from watching her mum.  

“She doesn’t just sit there and do the bare minimum—she fully goes above and beyond. Getting to see her advocate for our Mob as well… it’s really empowering to see.”

“She’s a very empowering woman.” 

While Gabs has always known her mum as caring and supportive, seeing Kaz at work has given her an even deeper appreciation for her role as a leader and advocate.   

It’s not just Gabs who’s been impassioned by her mum; her brother Jye has recently joined the Organisation Development team as a POWA school-based trainee. Kaz is an inspiration not only for her family, but for her Community.  

“IUIH is all about growing our own, and I think my mum really embodies that. Seeing her overcome so many obstacles and still being able to fight for our Mob and push to do so well at her job, it makes me want to do that as well.”   

As she looks to the future, Gabs hopes to continue her mum’s legacy and carry those same values forward.  

“I just want to show women that it doesn’t matter what you’re going through, you always should have the strength to stand up for what you believe in,” she said.  

“Mum and I have gone through a lot together throughout our lives and she’s always been my number one inspiration for strength and empowerment. That’s what I want to follow, then I want someone else younger than me to follow in those footsteps and keep going.”