Dr Daisy William's leadership skills were validated when she won the Leadership Award in the prestigious NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards last year from over hundreds of nominations.

"One visitor said that he heard about this Armidale Centre while on a cruise in Alaska. He decided that when he and his wife visit Australia, he will make it a point to visit the ACCKP," Dr William said.

Dr William is an ardent traveler, interested in different cultures, she thought this would be a great opportunity to work with the Aboriginal community and learn about their rich culture. Dr William has several postgraduate qualifications in business and management including a PhD in Financial Management and Corporate Governance.

"No challenge is too big to overcome if we work as a team. Understanding limitations in regards to funding,community factions, lack of skills and overcoming these problems is a constant challenge. One of the biggest roles of management is problem-solving. I never shy away from problems. I embrace challenges and often need to think outside, the box to overcome them.

"This success hasn't happened without its share of ups and downs," Dr William said.

On August 22, 2005 Dr William was confronted by paint spills, old newspapers lying about, empty walls, bare display cabinets laid out haphazardly and dusty surfaces. Initially she was given a four month contract with hardly any budget. Strategically over the years she has ensured the long term sustainability and creative ways to welcome the public. The centre now creates programs that acknowledges current policies and follows procedures to current standards.

Dr William introduced in-house controls, implemented procedures and processes, and ensured that all financial dealings were transparent. A comprehensive system of internal financial controls is in place in order to protect the Centre's longevity, assets and finances.

The Centre is now a vibrant Aboriginal cultural centre and a thriving business. Dr William continues to have a strong Board of Custodians, elders, staff, volunteers and the local Aboriginal and wider communities.

When asked why a Malaysian of Indian heritage she has stayed this long working in an Aboriginal organisation with its challenges, it's because I see the ongoing potential in the centre.

"I love working at the ACCKP. It's a beautiful environment with exciting challenges and a lot of love. Working with the community can be draining and exhilarating at the same time.

"The relationships I have formed through this job are priceless. People are people all over the world. We want the same things: respect, honesty, opportunities but above all kindness. I find these qualities in this place with this team,"Dr William replied.

The centre now has a comprehensive public program such as the Aboriginal Men's group, Aboriginal Women's group, Black and White Photography Club meetings, visual art exhibitions, photographic exhibitions, artefact exhibitions, holiday programs, cultural workshops, family history research activities, Friends of the ACCKP meetings, Aboriginal functions and cultural tours, the team has seen the diversity of the community use this significant facility.

Aboriginal arts and culture continues to empower individuals and healing in the community. Those who were and have been disconnected are re-establishing friendships and forming lasting relationships are welcome to attend programs that are playing an important part in this process.

The organisation is now funded by all three levels of government being Armidale Regional Council, Create NSW, the Department of Education and the Department of Communications and the Arts. The programs are promoted on Lonely Planet Guide, Tourism touchscreen, local radio stations, ACCKP website, social media and its monthly newsletter. The centre actively generates other funds through their programs.