Rhiannon Mitchell is making waves in NSW.

She wants to change the future of Indigenous girls and women through ‘Saltwater Sistas,’ a mentoring program that creates a safe, culturally appropriate place to learn about culture, wellbeing, and ocean conservation.

Based in Coffs Harbour on Gumbaynggirr Country, Saltwater Sistas conduct group beach clean-ups, mentoring, DIY workshops, Elder conversations, or any activity where nature and culture is at the forefront.

Growing up in Bellingen on the north coast of NSW, Rhiannon loved being in the natural world. As a teenager, connecting with the culture of her Mununjali people of Beaudesert helped her build confidence.

“I grew up in nature as an Aboriginal person, and I was always really connected to the land,” Rhiannon,  who is close to graduating with a degree in Marine Science and Management from Southern Cross University, said.

“We grew up swimming in the rivers, climbing trees, playing in the bush, and coming to the beach on the weekends. Then I started Saltwater Sistas because I thought so many Aboriginal children haven’t seen the ocean the way that I’ve been able to see it and be inspired by it.”

The tight-knit group partake in numerous marine adventures, exploring local coastal environments, learning from Elders and ocean warriors and even collaborating with a museum on a marine-themed art exhibition.

Rhiannon also offers one-on-one mentoring, where Indigenous girls can participate in yarning, walks on Country, cultural programs, and activities that focus on achieving their goals and aspirations.

The 31-year-old conservationist decided to start studying a Bachelor of Science (Marine Systems) at Southern Cross University to enhance her knowledge about the marine world and be able to bring comprehensive expertise to her business.

“I started Saltwater Sistas before I started studying, and then I thought, I want to do a degree to be really knowledgeable in this. It’s something that I’m super passionate about, so it’s really cool when you can study something that you really love.

“The National Marine Science Centre is great, I spend a lot of time in the aquarium there and the facilities are amazing.”

Now in her third year and on the way to achieve her dream of becoming a Marine Biologist, Rhiannon has been recognised for her work in numerous ways, including as an ABC 2021 Trailblazer. The award celebrates young people bringing about change in their communities.

“I feel very lucky as a young Aboriginal woman to be supported and to have a business because 20 years ago that wouldn’t have happened – it wasn’t long ago that Indigenous people didn’t even have rights,” she said.

“We are in a place where I feel like the country is changing and young Aboriginal people are standing up and saying hey, we want to have a business and share our culture and our knowledge. I think the wider community is listening, and I find that super powerful.”

Saltwater Sistas empowers Indigenous Women and youth in ocean conservation, wellbeing and culture.

Check out her website: saltwatersistas.com.au