Through compassion and understanding, Link-Up (Qld)’s Christine Kanofski is still bringing them home.
Christine Kanofski has been a vital member of the Link-Up (Qld) team since 2019. With five years of experience as a Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Counsellor, Christine’s role is central to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients through their emotional journeys of reconnection and healing. Having started during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Christine has shown resilience and dedication to her work, and her passion stems from a deeply personal place.
Photo by Farley Ward/Shutterstorm Photography
Her connection to the Stolen Generations is both professional and personal. Christine’s maternal grandfather was removed as a small child and placed in Bomaderry Aboriginal Children’s Home before being transferred to Kinchela Boys Home in Kempsey, New South Wales. This family history gives Christine a profound understanding of the trauma faced by many of her clients. “I always had an understanding of what effect removals have had on our people,” Christine reflects.
“My grandfather died in 2002, so I hope he would be proud of the work I do in assisting Stolen Generations to reconnect with family.”
– Link-Up (Qld) Social and Emotional Wellbeing Counsellor, Christine Kanofski
In her role, Christine supports clients before, during, and after reunions with their families. Her approach to social and emotional wellbeing is holistic, recognising that health extends beyond the physical and includes connections to land, culture, spirit, family, and community. “It’s rewarding to assist clients to recognise their emotions, understand and manage their feelings, build self-esteem and resilience,” she explains. For Christine, the work is about more than just counselling – it’s about fostering lasting emotional and cultural connections.
One of the things Christine enjoys most is listening to the stories of Stolen Generations survivors and walking alongside them as they navigate their personal journeys. Helping clients reconnect with their roots and fostering a sense of belonging is a key part of her work at Link-Up (Qld). “I really enjoy listening to our clients’ stories and supporting them on their journeys of discovery and healing,” she shares, capturing the essence of her role.
Looking to the future, Christine remains passionate about the work she does. She is excited to continue building strong relationships with new clients and stakeholders, hoping that the ripple effect of her work will help transform lives and communities. With her compassion, dedication, and unique personal connection to the Stolen Generations, Christine is an invaluable member of the Link-Up (Qld) team.
