Metro South Health’s new Journey Onward map is more than a visual resource for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers. It is a cultural story, carried through art and connection.
Created by artist Kalisha Soe, the artwork reflects the movement, strength and shared responsibility that shape the experiences of First Nations peoples across our health system.
Kalisha Soe is an Aboriginal and Samoan woman with strong cultural ties to the Kalkadoon and Kuku Yalanji peoples. Her journey as an artist evolved through storytelling and deep cultural grounding.
“The most influential people in my journey have been my family. Their teachings reminded me that art carries responsibility—it is about purpose and truth-telling.”
Kalisha describes the creative inspiration for Journey Onward as a representation of the many journeys Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples take when accessing care—physical, cultural, emotional and spiritual.
“The flowing waterways represent life, continuity and connection, linking communities, hospitals and health services across Yuggera, Jagera, Yugambeh, Mununjali, Quandamooka and Ugarapul Countries,” she says.
Footprints woven throughout the artwork symbolise ancestors, Elders, families, staff and consumers—walking together.
For Kalisha, Journey Onward is about respect and shared responsibility.
“It recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are not entering a system empty-handed — they bring culture, strength, knowledge and lived experience with them.”
She hopes the map encourages staff to slow down, listen and yarn. It’s a reminder that cultural safety is created through kindness, curiosity and respect. Now that the Journey Onward map is being shared with consumers, Kalisha feels proud that it truly belongs to community.
“It is accessible, culturally grounded and designed with mob in mind—not just as patients, but as people with stories, families and connections.”