Co-founder, The BEAR Program, Lamaze; Australia

Mary Waria is a Torres Strait Islander and has over 15 years’ experience working in Indigenous Student Engagement roles at various universities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. Born in Torres Strait Islands and later raised in Queensland and New South Wales, Mary brings to the table a unique perspective of what a cross-cultural lived experience looks like. In her previous and present roles she has always loved working in Indigenous student engagement and mentoring, as she watches students and mentees grow in confidence and strength to become a better version of themselves. The students give her energy and she has strong relationships that have extended for many years. Mary has a passion for teaching, “and sharing my culture to show the world our uniqueness and beauty”.