Emma Garlett.
From the vibrant community of Geraldton to the forefront of national advocacy, Emma Garlett is reshaping the landscape for First Nations people.
A proud Nyungar-Nyiyaparli-Yamatji woman, Emma witnessed firsthand the resilience and spirit that thrives within communities – experiences that ignited an unyielding passion for justice and empowerment.
This drive propelled her to academic excellence, becoming the first person in her family to graduate from university and the first Aboriginal person to earn degrees from both Curtin Law School and Curtin Business School
Emma at her graduation ceremony.
A visionary leader Emma is forging a path of empowerment and driving change through her company Garlett Group.
Launched in 2023, Garlett Group is a communications firm focused on amplifying Indigenous voices and promoting Indigenous inclusion in the realms of sustainability and media.
“Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are integral to creating a better future,’’ she said.
“Our commitment to Indigenous voices is rooted in profound respect and the invaluable wisdom, accumulated over generations.
“Indigenous communities hold vital insights into sustainable practices, holistic well-being, and storytelling techniques that can guide us toward a more harmonious coexistence with our environment.”
Emma said media was a potent catalyst for change, shaping perceptions and driving transformation.
Through the Garlett Group she aims to ensure indigenous voices aren’t just heard in the media – but celebrated.
Emma said inspiring the next generation was an important and vital step towards reconciliation.
Beyond her firm, Garlett is a prominent voice in national media, leveraging her platform as a columnist for The West Australian and through her YouTube series, ‘Paint it Blak’ to foster education and offer authentic Indigenous perspectives on current affairs.
An advocate and ambassador for Indigenous culture and rights Emma is passionate about changing the narrative and fighting for social justice.
One of a handful of Aboriginal people in the mainstream media, Emma uses her online presence to educate others and bring them on a journey of reconciliation.
Her online series Paint it Blak provides an Indigenous lens on topical events and issues.
“It’s not an easy place to be, but it’s an important place to be,’’ she said.
“I’m committed to nurturing the next generation and inspiring young people to pursue their aspirations and understand the rich history and potential within their communities. One easy way for them to start doing this is by reading books by Indigenous authors. I encourage everyone in our community to do this.”
As a child, Emma remembers the sheer joy she felt flicking through the pages of picture books in the school library at lunchtime – becoming engrossed in the tales and adventures was her favourite pastime.
“I’d like to see more children read Indigenous books from a young age and experience and celebrate Australia’s rich culture and history,’’ she said.
“The reality is the way we previously operated is no longer acceptable today. We need to change,’’ she said.
“I know this is easier said than done, but we need to start somewhere.”
Emma is also encouraging young lawyers entering the profession to understand Australia’s legal history and educate themselves when dealing with Indigenous issues and clients.
“I know we still have a way to go, but it all starts with a little hope,’’ she said.
Emma said despite encountering scepticism, her unwavering belief, bolstered by the support of her family and mentors, became the fuel to her fire.
Emma with her cousins and Grandmother.
“It was that hope and belief that I had in myself that gave me the confidence to pursue a career in law,’’ she said.
“When I said I wanted to become a lawyer so many people laughed in my face and told me straight, that’s never going to happen.
“But that only made me work harder to prove them wrong.”
Now, through Garlett Group and her tireless advocacy, Emma Garlett is not only achieving her own potential but actively paving the way for countless others.
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