Empowering Indigenous communities through LifeKeepers

Tiana Watkins, senior manager for suicide prevention at Le Va, opened day two of the 2024 Indigenous Wellbeing Conference with her inspiring keynote speech – ‘Empowering communities: LifeKeepers’ culturally responsive approach to suicide prevention in Aotearoa.’

LifeKeepers is Le Va’s national suicide prevention training programme, crafted with deep cultural respect and understanding for the unique needs of local communities.

At its core, LifeKeepers is a holistic kaupapa that blends internationally validated practices with rich local knowledge and cultural insights.

This fusion ensures the programme is clinically sound and closely attuned to the cultural and community contexts of Aotearoa.

Mana Akiaki – LifeKeepers for Māori is a version of LifeKeepers that weaves te reo me ōna tikanga Māori throughout, empowering whānau to build the courage and confidence to prevent suicide.

During her session, Tiana (Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāti Ranginui and Kai Tahu) explored how LifeKeepers empowers key community members – from youth workers and Māori wardens, to sports coaches and caregivers – with the skills to recognise, respond to and support those at risk of suicide.

She shared how LifeKeepers fosters Communities of C.A.R.E. (Connect, Ask, Respond, Engage), creating safer, stronger communities by integrating culture and tradition into suicide prevention strategies.

Attendees agreed it was a powerful session that highlighted the importance of uplifting Indigenous voices and creating lasting change.

The Indigenous Wellbeing Conference celebrates Indigenous community, culture and identity to help advance social and emotional wellbeing for all First Nations Australian, Māori and Pasifika people.

Learn more about our LifeKeepers programme.