Our Story: Grounded in Culture, Driven by Care
Choosing Tjinatjarra
Choosing Tjinatjarra means opting for a service provider that offers more than just high quality care, we are also dedicated to being vigilant advocates for the vulnerable in our community.
We are Aboriginal owned and operated, with a strong focus on delivering culturally safe and respectful support. We ensure that every participant’s cultural identity is honoured and integrated into all aspects of our service.
Our approach addresses the overall wellbeing of individuals, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. We offer personalised services tailored to each person’s unique journey, supporting their independence, inclusion, and empowerment.
Our services cater to a wide spectrum of individuals, from young people seeking personal development to elderly community members preserving their stories for future generations. We offer a variety of services, including NDIS support, community engagement, and respite services, to meet the varied needs and preferences of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants.
With over 20 years of combined experience between our business owners, Natasha and Sharon Watkins, we bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep connection to our country and heritage. Our team is skilled, compassionate, and dedicated to making a positive impact, understanding the unique challenges faced by our community.
We focus on empowering individuals through capacity building and leadership incentives, helping them build confidence, gain independence, and actively contribute to their communities.
Beyond providing quality services, Tjinatjarra is committed to being proactive advocates for the vulnerable in our community. We act as stewards, ensuring that the rights and wellbeing of individuals are safeguarded and that their voices are heard within the disability sector and beyond.
meet our founders
Get to know Natasha and Sharon Watkins, the heart and soul of Tjinatjarra, whose vision and dedication drive our commitment to culturally safe and compassionate support.
I am Natasha, co-founder of Tjinatjarra, and I bring over 28 years of dedicated experience in the support service sector. My journey has equipped me with a rich understanding of both cultural needs and holistic support. At Tjinatjarra, I leverage this extensive background to provide culturally safe and comprehensive services.
Natasha Watkins is a proud Western and Central Aranda woman and an experienced, ethically driven leader, deeply committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families through culturally safe, holistic care. With a strong background in community services and business management, Natasha blends her passion for cultural integrity with a hands-on approach, ensuring that the services she oversees honor the cultural identity and unique needs of each person.
As the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Tjinatjarra, a support service based in Alice Springs, Natasha leads with the vision of creating a space where community members feel truly seen and respected. Her work centers on fostering strong cultural connections and providing holistic, person-centered care that empowers her clients to live fulfilling lives. Natasha’s unwavering commitment to ethical practice ensures that every decision at Tjinatjarra is made with the utmost care, dignity, and respect for those they serve.
In addition to my leadership role, I have gained my Cert III in Aged care and Cert III in Disability & mental Health, further enriching her understanding of social dynamics and Indigenous perspectives. She also brings a wealth of experience in media, having worked at CAAMA Radio, where she developed her skills in communication and cultural storytelling.
For Natasha, this is more than just a career—it is her purpose. She is dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of those in her community, ensuring that every person has access to the support they need while honoring their cultural heritage. Her work reflects a deep personal calling to uplift and empower her people, guided by her belief in the power of connection, respect, and care.
I am Sharon, co-founder of Tjinatjarra, and I bring a wealth of experience and expertise accumulated over many years in various roles within the support service sector. My journey has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of community needs and effective service delivery. At Tjinatjarra, I apply this extensive experience to drive our mission of providing high quality, culturally safe support services.
Sharon is a highly experienced leader and community advocate, proudly identifying as a Western and Central Aranda woman. She brings extensive expertise in the support service sector, and her diverse background has equipped her with a profound understanding of community needs and effective service delivery, ensuring that Tjinatjarra operates with cultural integrity and a commitment to empowering individuals.
As the co-founder and Managing Director of Tjinatjarra, Sharon is dedicated to providing high-quality, culturally safe support services to vulnerable populations. Her passion for fostering inclusive practices drives the organization’s mission to create a positive impact within the community.
Sharon’s professional journey includes significant roles such as Hostel Manager at Aboriginal Hostels Limited and Treatment Care Worker at the Central Australian Aboriginal Alcohol Program Unit (CAAAPU). Her diverse experiences also encompass case management, early childhood education, and community support, further enhancing her ability to deliver exceptional care.
Currently, Sharon is pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Darwin University, deepening her understanding of social dynamics and further strengthening her capacity to serve the community. She is committed to ethical practices, ensuring that all services are delivered with integrity and respect for cultural identity.
With a Certificate III in Business Administration from the Institute for Aboriginal Development (IAD) and an Associate Diploma in Education (Childcare Studies) from Alice Springs, Sharon’s qualifications underscore her commitment to making a positive impact through Tjinatjarra.
Have a question that you need answered?
If you have any questions about our services or want to know more about how we can best support your loved one, we’re here to guide you. Simply fill out the contact form, and our friendly team at Tjinatjarra will get back to you as soon as possible with the information and answers you need.
