Artwork Description This artwork represents the journey of the Stepping Up program and the growth of the First Nations workforce in NSW Health. A yellow pathway winds through the centre, connecting a series of gathering places that increase in size to symbolise professional growth, connection, and cultural strength. Surrounding each gathering place are people, shown through 'U' symbols in various colours. This represents the people who are part of the Stepping Up program, highlighting mentorship, collaboration, and shared opportunity. At the centre is NSW Health, shown as the largest gathering place, with 15 people representing the Local Health Districts in NSW. Stars in the background honour Elders, ancestors, and loved ones who continue to guide us. Along the sides of the Country sections, clusters of people reflect the wider communities supported by the workforce, as well as the communities that healthcare workers belong to. Symbols of Country such as bush medicine, flora, fauna, ceremony, and waterways are woven throughout the piece. These elements ground the journey in culture, identity, and connection to land. This artwork is a tribute to growth, community, and the continued journey of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professionals in healthcare. 
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ARTIST BIOGRAPHY  Natalie Abraham is a proud Wadi Wadi woman, Aboriginal artist, and founder of Create Ripples. Her practice is deeply rooted in cultural storytelling, connection to Country, and the enduring strength of community. While art has always been part of her life, it became increasingly important to Natalie following the sudden passing of her sister Britt in 2024. Creating art became a powerful way for her to cope with the immense grief and navigate the healing process. What began as a way to process grief has since grown into a broader mission to honour legacy, spark dialogue, and create space for healing. Natalie's work reflects her deep respect for culture, memory, and relationships. Through flowing lines, vibrant colour palettes, and symbolic elements, her pieces explore themes of identity, belonging, resilience, and the ripple effects we leave behind. Each artwork is created with purpose, often inspired by lived experience, the wisdom of Elders, and the stories that continue to shape who we are. Britt's legacy is central to Natalie's creative journey. A dedicated advocate for health equity, Indigenous education, and culturally safe pathways, Britt's work continues to guide and influence the values behind Create Ripples. Natalie carries this spirit forward through her art, blending personal expression with collective storytelling to support conversations around grief, growth, and empowerment. In addition to her art practice, Natalie holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Human Resource Management and Psychological Science. Her professional background in mental health, community engagement, and reconciliation informs much of her work, particularly her collaborations with schools, health services, and organisations working to create change. Cultural integrity is central to everything Natalie does. She constantly seeks guidance from her Elders to ensure her work is respectful, safe, and grounded in truth. This includes meaningful consultation and ongoing relationships with community, allowing her to create works that are meaningful, culturally strong and representative of the people and places they reflect. Through Create Ripples, Natalie is committed to creating work that celebrates culture, uplifts community, and invites connection. Whether through canvas, digital designs, or large-scale collaborative projects, her art continues to honour the past, speak to the present, and shape a shared future.
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