For Hannah Waters, walking alongside her Mob to ensure they feel safe, respected and supported throughout their healthcare journey is what drives her work.
A proud Mandandanji woman from St George in Queensland with strong connections to Toowoomba, Hannah recently joined Logan Hospital’s Internal Medicine team as a First Nations Nurse Navigator. In this role, she plays a vital part in breaking down barriers, strengthening trust and advocating for care that respects culture, identity and lived experience.
“I am here to support Mob in our Metro South community to move through the complex healthcare system, break down barriers and build positive relationships,” Hannah said.
The mother of three’s path into healthcare began when she was pregnant with her first child.
“I wanted to make my kids proud, and I wanted to be in a career that positively impacted community.
“Initially my journey into nursing felt like a safe option, but once I got started, I very quickly developed a bigger vision,” she said.
Beginning her career in paediatrics, Hannah found purpose in supporting children and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. This experience reinforced her passion for walking alongside people when they feel scared or alone and shaped her commitment to compassionate, understanding care.
Deeply connected to culture, Hannah described her role as a way to fulfil a cultural obligation.
She is committed to ensuring her Mob and Elders are supported, respected and culturally safe throughout their healthcare journeys.
“By bringing together my identity as a First Nations woman and my experience within the healthcare system, I hope to create spaces where Mob feel heard, empowered and in control of their health,” she said.
Through her work, Hannah is focused on building health literacy, supporting autonomy and strengthening relationships between healthcare services and community, with the goal of creating lasting, culturally safe pathways that support better health outcomes for First Nations people, families and future generations.