Our Story

Yaama, my name is Shareen Gentle. I am 29 years old and a proud Gamilaroi woman with strong connections to Toomelah, Boggabilla, Tingha and Inverell all in far North inland New South Whales.

From a young age, i was taught the importance of keeping culture and craft alive. Raised by a single Father who although not Aboriginal himself, made sure i stayed deeply connected to my culture through song, dance, and traditional values. Alongside my sister i was able to grow, learn, and share culture in ways that continue to shape the women we are today.

Now as a mother of two beautiful children, my purpose has grown even stronger. They inspire me every day to deepen my cultural knowledge so i can pass these teachings onto them, my family and my community for future generations to come, ensuring that they too, walk proudly in their identity and connection.

in 2021 i attended a cultural gathering that would quietly change the direction of my life. It was there that i discovered weaving. From the very first strand, i felt something shift, a reconnection to culture, to country, and to myself. What began as a creative outlet soon became a pathway to healing, strength, and purpose. Weaving for me is more than an art form, it is medicine. It heals the mind and soul, while grounding me in connection to my country and my people. Each strand carries story, memory, and identity, linking the past with the present. Weaving is now apart of who i am, it is my passion and it is my purpose. By carrying forward this practice, i honour my ancestors, strengthen culture and ensure that these traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.