Mishalia is a Torres Strait Islander woman with ancestral ties to the Wagadagum tribe of Mabuiag Island. She grew up on Waibene (Thursday Island) in Zenadth Kes and is a First Nations communications specialist dedicated to elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.
Mishalia holds a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Business Management from The University of Queensland, and is a trained graphic designer through the internationally recognised Shillington College. She is also an alumni of the MURRA Indigenous Business Leadership Program at Melbourne Business School.
With more than a decade of experience across communications, digital marketing, strategic reporting, and public relations, Mishalia brings a unique blend of cultural insight and technical expertise to her role. She has led communications in the Indigenous economic development sector and most recently with the Torres Strait Regional Authority, where her work centred on climate resilience, cultural heritage, and regional advocacy.
When she’s not in front of a screen you can catch her out on the water boating and fishing, hanging out at the dog park, and attending community events.
At ReefTO, Mishalia is committed to delivering culturally grounded, impactful communications that reflect the leadership, priorities, and aspirations of Traditional Owners working to protect the Great Barrier Reef.