Tess Ryan

Tess Ryan is a Biripi woman originating from Taree, New South Wales. She was born in Brisbane Queensland and has lived in Canberra for 11 years. In that time she has worked for both Government and non-Government departments in areas ranging from child protection, out of home foster care, people with disabilities and the aged.  Tess has also worked as an Indigenous cadet with the Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs in Indigenous Communications and Events and The Office of Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, and as an Indigenous mentor with the Coles First Step Indigenous Employment Pathways program. 

Tess' academic career began at The University of Canberra in 2009 where she embarked on an undergraduate degree in Communications and Media studies. Tess has also been awarded many scholarships for her high academic achievements, including an ABC Indigenous Media scholarship, a Charles Perkins scholarship and the Lorna May scholarship. A member of The Golden Key International Honour Society, Tess had the opportunity of attending a two week scholar program on diplomacy and international relations in China. In 2013 she was awarded The University of Canberra Medal for her Honours theses, 'The push pull indicators of Indigenous political engagement'.

Tess is currently undertaking a PhD at The University of Canberra which focuses on Indigenous women and their experiences of leadership in Australia.

You can contact Tess at u3035696@uni.canberra.edu.au