Rachael Sarra is an artist and designer whose work is an extension of her being and experiences. As a contemporary Aboriginal artist from Goreng Goreng Country, Rachael uses art as a powerful tool in storytelling to educate and share Aboriginal culture and it’s evolution. Rachaels work often challenges and explores the themes of societies perception of what Aboriginal art and identity is.
The ‘Answers to Thriving' is an interview series that takes a look at the women who have taken action to pursue a life purpose, goal or ambition. We uncover key moments, lessons and habits that have influenced the life they lead today.
You can’t start the day without:
Coffee or a good night sleep.
One wellness ritual you do regularly:
Can’t go past a good work out, a game of basketball or the presence of my best friends.
The last inspiring podcast you listened to and what makes it worth a listen:
She’s on the money - Being a creative and a business owner I’ve got to look after my finances. This podcast is a really easy and supportive way to be more financially aware. Or alternatively Tiddas4Tiddas.
How do you go about self-development?
Anything Lisa Messenger. I am such a fan girl!
Which business or person inspires you right now?
I am a huge fan of my fellow women of colour who are waking up and shaking up the game. There’s too many to mention. But the common factor is their tenacity and powerful voices.
Who has helped you progress in your career the most and what did they do to support you?
The people have helped me the most are those who have accepted my unique voice without trying to alter it. It’s the people who have bought my products or services and continued to tell their story. Or the people who have been brave enough to say they can see themselves reflected in my story or journey. It’s that emotion of not feeling like I’m not in this by myself that makes me wake up of a morning.
What has been the most defining moment in your career to date?
I don’t think there has been one. It’s the connection between all the little steps that have been the biggest difference. It’s the moment where I was too nervous to do my TEDx Talk that I prepared in a way that wasn’t natural to my process to then becoming confident and 100 percent myself in the next situation. Anyone who says there’s only one moment hasn’t taken the time to reflect.
What fear have you had to overcome to pursue your ambitions?
I struggle with anxiety, particularly travel and separation anxiety so that has been difficult to work through. I’ve been able to get better and manage it but exposing myself to situations that cause me fear.
What advice would you give women who want to make a positive change in their lives?
Take notice of where your energy comes from. That’s a huge indicator of where your purpose lies. Once you can see that, it’s time to invest it in. Take the risk and invest in yourself.
What does thriving mean to you?
Living with purpose for myself, my family and my community.
Anything else you would like to promote/share with the Thrivhers community?
Our First Nations Cultures all around the world are so beautiful, unique and rich with history and stories that can be celebrated by everyone. It’s time that we start to show up for our First Nations people and culture and see how beneficial it can be to all of our communities.
Check out Rachael Sarra's work; feminine, fun and engaging but is strongly drawn from her heritage and her role as an Aboriginal woman in a modern world.
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