Ruth Forsythe

Ruth Forsythe has a background in investigative and research based social science and adult education. Her paid work has mainly been policy and secretariat support to Ministerial Advisory councils in the areas of SAAP (the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program); Homelessness and Indigenous Affairs; and in non-government, youth and women’s organisations. Most recently, she has held positions as a teacher in various locations in the community services section of North Coast Institute of TAFE.

However, in the last two years Ruth has worked directly with Aboriginal communities in NSW taking direction from Custodians and Elders instead of a paid employer. This has enabled the ability to be focussed and more able to support communities directly. There is less monetary compensation, but Ruth believes that the contentment gained by contributing and being able to participate in affecting some positive change means abundance is high in terms of her health, heart and spirit.

Ruth’s hopes and ambitions for the role of writing in her life include: exploring the extra in the ordinary; documenting the stories of wise people; and the use of writing to inform, inspire and assist in the development of internal consciousness raising — both for herself and others. Finding her intended audience is also an aim.