This student panel is facilitated by ACM Chief Midwife Alison Weatherstone and features panellists Melinda Connors and Sonita Giudice.

Presenters
Melina Connors
Melina is a proud Gurindji woman from the Northern Territory. Melina’s journey into midwifery was led by identifying the need for creating a healthcare experience that is culturally safe and to make a difference in the maternity care of Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander women and families. Melina is passionate and committed to the development of best practice when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. Melina was previously a Clinical Midwife Consultant for the Growing Deadly Families Strategy. In her current role as Queensland Health’s Inaugural First Nations Midwifery Director, she will will continue this important work.

Sonita Giudice
Sonita is a proud Gunggari and Wakka Wakka woman from Queensland. Sonita is extremely passionate about First Nations maternity and infant health. Sonita continues her strong passion and commitment as a Clinical Midwifery Consultant within the Office of Chief Midwife Officer. She provides her expertise with clinical and cultural knowledge to support the codesign of these models of care. Sonita acknowledges it has been an honour and privilege to be closely involved in First Nations woman’s care, their families, and the community.