Ember Connect is calling on First Nations mums of kids aged 0-5 years to join a free new
mentoring program aimed at building community and fostering connection.
The Early Sparks online mentoring program is available to all First Nations women in
Australia with babies and young kids, and launches on Wednesday 24 June 2026.
Ember Connect’s General Manager Narelle Henry said the program connects women with
a supportive mentor who can assist them build confidence and connections during what
can often be an alienating and lonely time for women.
“Early Sparks is about walking closely beside our new mums with love and compassion,
guided by other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who truly understand the deep
and very real challenges of becoming a new mum,” Narelle said.
“We place far too many unreasonable expectations on ourselves, yet the reality of
motherhood looks different for everyone. I don’t know anyone who has breezed through
it…for most of us, it can feel like we’re just trying to get through each day and night,
keeping our heads above water as we figure things out in real time.
“No one should have to navigate all the things they don’t yet know to ask, while carrying the
guilt of believing they should be at their very best during a time they often feel most
vulnerable and unsure. These are the conversations we need to be having, and Early
Sparks sits at the very heart of what Ember Connect was created to do.”
First Nations mothers currently account for about 5.6 per cent of all women who give birth
in Australia each year. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander mothers and babies report highlights access to culturally safe care plays a
significant role in the health outcomes for First Nations women.
Early Sparks Program Facilitator Daina Walker said the program allows new mums to
connect with their mentor in the comfort of their own home.
At Ember Connect we’re building a culturally safe and supportive community for First Nations women. For
more information visit emberconnect.com.au.
The Early Sparks Program has been made possible through a generous donation from the CAGES Foundation.