Sharon creates spaces to belong, heal, and innovate, reconciliation and equity with “Good Humans” for a future we can feel proud of for generations to come. Caring for Country, caring for all people respectfully.

Sharon is a respected Executive Cultural Navigator, Co-Design Community Engagement Specialist, STEM & Innovation Hub, Djinda BW Two-Way Science building capacity for First Nations Elders, community & educators, to come together building pride in culture for the first scientists, researchers, as well as South West Kinships Cultural Immersions.

Sharon has been inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame & Joondalup Walk of Fame, won and been nominated for various NAIDOC awards and recognition across the state, and recently internationally with police coins for talks on ‘Perception Is OUR Truth’ philosophies and cultural navigation within the justice systems.

She also collaborates across industries like sports and aged care, justice, police, environmental health, Aboriginal Affairs, including a philosophy making a real difference across sectors like justice, health, education, research, WA Police, SportWest, Aged Care, and the WA Comprehensive Cancer Centre.

UWA’s Centre for Social Impact, focusing on best practices in co-design and systems change across key projects in WA.

Sharon is a strong advocate for Two-Way Science and Innovation, and enjoys working entwined across education in WA, bringing a unique lens for equity and collaboration with our First Nations scientist insights.

Sharon has designed & delivered the “Perception Is OUR Truth” Immersive Workshops for equity, leadership, cultural shift and systems change nationally and recently, internationally.

Sharon’s work with Noongar Radio’s Koorlingas Takeover, Shaz WK Media Productions, & Noongar Radio Podcaster demonstrates how the oldest continuous culture on the planet can be of real value and woven into science and technology today.

Her innovative work on the ‘Our Connected Futures Program’ aims to help students connect with their culture and environment.

Currently, she is furthering her studies at Edith Cowan University in Social Sciences to achieve the best outcomes in environmental science, health, and wellbeing.

What inspires you to write or create stories?

I am inspired by the voices of my Elders, the whispers of the land, and the memories held in the water. Storytelling is part of who I am—it’s not just something I do, it’s something I live every day. My inspiration comes from lived experiences, the cultural teachings of my Nan, and the quiet strength of Country. Stories are healing, and they are how we pass on our knowledge, our humour, our resilience, and our deep love for community. They’re also how we reclaim space and remind ourselves of who we are.

How does culture, heritage, and lived experiences influence your storytelling?

Being a Noongar Yamatji Yok with ties across Western Australia, and also of Irish, Scottish, English, and Italian heritage, my stories are woven from many threads. I’ve always walked between worlds, and this has shaped how I see and share stories—through a lens of connection, compassion, and cultural responsibility. My cultural inheritance has taught me to listen deeply, and my lived experience has taught me the power of truth-telling. I carry my family’s songlines, which is both a responsibility and a gift. My work is grounded in care—for Country, for people, for truth, and for future generations.

What inspired your 2025 short story? How did the idea come to life?

The story was inspired by memories of water and the women in my family—my Nans—who taught me the significance of Kep, my totem. Water has always been my safe place, my healing space. From walking the Canning River, Galup, Scarborough to Sorrento, Mullaloo to Ocean Reef, to throwing sand at the edge of the waves as a little girl, these memories are deeply embedded in my cultural identity. Being part of the Sorrento Life Saving Club and reflecting on those early connections to the coastline helped bring this story to life. It’s about honouring our old people, healing through Country, and inviting others to find connection through shared breath, shared water, and shared respect

Are there elements of traditional knowledge or cultural practices woven into your work?

Absolutely. Everything I do is grounded in cultural practice—whether it’s how I deliver immersive workshops, collaborate with Elders, or share stories. My story includes the knowledge of healing waterways, walking the Canning River, Galup, Scarborough to Sorrento, Mullaloo to Ocean Reef, the teachings of songlines, and the sacred practice of caring for and listening to Country. These elements are not just references—they are lived, active parts of my storytelling practice.

What does NAIDOC Week personally mean to you?

NAIDOC Week is a time of honouring, truth-telling, and visibility. It’s a celebration of our survival, strength, and continuous connection to Country. It’s also a reminder of our shared responsibilities to uphold justice, equity, and respect. Personally, NAIDOC Week is a time of reflection, reconnection, and community—a time to stand proudly in culture and to invite others to listen and walk with us.

What significance does this year’s theme hold for you?

The 2025 theme speaks deeply to our need for collective healing and truth. It is a reminder that our stories matter, and that our ways of knowing, being and doing continue to guide us forward. It reflects the strength of our old people and the power of our young ones. This year’s theme encourages us to keep the fire burning—to honour the spirit of our ancestors while empowering the next generation of storytellers, leaders, and change-makers.

How do you and your community celebrate NAIDOC Week each year?

We celebrate through storytelling, ceremony, cultural immersions, and coming together in strength and unity. From school visits to community workshops, to large-scale events that centre Elders and young people alike, NAIDOC Week is a full-circle moment. It’s also a time where we showcase art, language, music, and healing. My work across education, health, justice, and community sectors reflects this celebration every day—but during NAIDOC, it’s amplified and more visible to all.

Why do you believe Indigenous storytelling is important in today’s world?

Because our stories hold solutions. Our stories connect, educate, and inspire. In a world that often seeks to erase or distort our truths, Indigenous storytelling is a powerful act of resistance and resurgence. It teaches values, offers healing, and reminds everyone—Indigenous and non-Indigenous—that this land holds ancient wisdom. It’s not about nostalgia, it’s about survival and cultural continuity. Stories are medicine, and right now, the world needs that medicine more than ever.

Do you have any words of encouragement or wisdom for aspiring Indigenous writers and young people in general?

Your story matters. Never be afraid to speak your truth or write from the heart. Listen to your old people, sit with Country, and let the words come when they are ready. You don’t have to be loud to be powerful—sometimes the softest voice carries the deepest wisdom. Remember, our ancestors have already written the first chapters; we are just continuing their legacy. So write with pride, with strength, and with love. And always, always carry your culture with you—it is your greatest superpower.