First Nations Telegraph

First-time Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) board member, Tailisa Yusia, is paving the way for more young women and mothers to have a say in their communities.  

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At 34-years-old, she’s among the TSRA’s youngest Board members.   

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As Portfolio Member for Economic Development and Member for Bamaga, she’s embracing opportunities to learn and advocate for women, her community and the people of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).  

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“It’s a privilege to work alongside experienced community leaders, I’m trying to gain as much knowledge as I can,” Ms Yusia said.   

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“My community motivates me, because I would like to enhance things that are working and look for resources for areas that can work better and smarter.”  

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She credits her father, mother and traditional adopted mother as her inspiration.  

 

“My father Jonathan has strong work ethics. He's a protector, provider and a leader who inspires me to always put my head down and work for what I want,” she said. 

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“My mother Patricia is my strength in voice and a very hard worker, who enables me to speak up and advocate for what's right.  

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“My adopted mother taught me you are never too old to get qualifications. She was 65 when she obtained her qualifications in nursing.”  

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Ms Yusia said it was important to do away with self-doubt.   

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“Never give up or lose faith in yourself,” she said.  

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“Women are amazing and when we want something, we will make it happen.   

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“Always remember if there is not a path, we as women, will find a way to make a path.”  

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She has challenged gender and cultural expectations to prioritise a university education and start her family later.  

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After more than a decade of study, she holds a Master of Social Work, Bachelor of Business / Community Services, a Certificate IV in Governance and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.   

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“I studied for many years, but also prayed to be a mother,” she said.   

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“I have my blessing, so now I want to spend time with my daughter and also balance fulltime work and Board commitments.”  

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Ms Yusia encouraged more women to take up leadership opportunities.  

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“I would like to see more women on boards and in leadership roles,” she said.  

 

“COVID-19 has taught us to be more flexible to do work at home.  

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“Technology has made it really easy – it’s not the traditional style of working.  

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“This generation can be working from home or anywhere.   

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“It’s good to have women’s perspectives on boards and views from people of all ages.” 

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In 2021, Ms Yusia supported the delivery of the Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project – a certified coxswain course in Bamaga – to 20 participants, including three women. 

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Her priorities include to increase economic development and infrastructure, improve social and emotional wellbeing services and quality of education for future generations.   

Did you know? 

TSRA Board includes five women – up from three in the previous Board term – the strongest level of female representation since TSRA was established in 1994.