From the very start of her career, Wiradjuri woman Taleah Stanley has been supported in her journey to professional growth. She works as a Marketing Assistant at the University of Sydney’s School of Rural Health in Dubbo and has been part of close knit Indigenous staff community—six strong, including four of Taleah’s own family members.

“It just goes to show that mob’s always everywhere,” she says. “And it’s good to see that we’re all working at the University.”

Taleah’s journey to the University started with an application, which she originally hesitated to start, but found herself supported during the process. “The application process was pretty easygoing,” she recalls. “I completed an online application, was invited for an interview, which I was very nervous for, but I was really supported throughout.”

Her team also supported her needs when she stepped away from work to welcome a new chapter in her life—motherhood. Returning after a year of maternity leave, she found a workplace that was not only flexible but deeply understanding of her new responsibilities. “Especially with me being a mother now, it’s been great. They’re really supportive.”

For Taleah, working at the University has allowed her to stay close to home without sacrificing career opportunities. “What inspired me was the thought of living in my hometown but still working at a university,” she says. “I didn’t have to move to the city. I could stay in Wellington and still have a great job.”

With a strong support network, a deep connection to her culture, and a workplace that values both, Taleah is thriving in her career.