Patricia Nja-wakadj Gibson

Patricia is from Dhukurrdji clan, the traditional landowners of Maningrida community in West Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. She speaks Ndjébbana, Kuninjku, Na-kara and Kun-barlang. Her skin name is Nja-wakadj and she is from the Yirridja moiety. Patricia grew up on the tiny outstation of Modkorldjban, in the rocky country. When she was 10 years old she moved to the Waláya area of Maningrida where she went to school and learnt music. Patricia is a djunggay and cultural leader for ceremony in and around Maningrida.
Patricia is an established gospel singer and composer. With her brother, she records songs that reflect the troubles she has seen and the strength needed to overcome. She is also keyboard player, vocalist and songwriter in the all-women’s rock band Ripple Effect Band. She has toured nationally and her song Ngúddja was recently featured in the Stan series BUMP. Through her work with the band, she collaborates on research about popular music, First Nation languages and the power of music to contribute to social change.
Currently Patricia works at Mala'la Health Service in Maningrida on the Rheumatic Heart Project as a community liaison officer.