Heartdancers founder recognised by Premier

Colombian-born artist Sandra Morales, who runs Heartdancers on the Central Coast, has won the 2025 Arts and Culture Medal at this year’s Premier’s Harmony Dinner, held on Wednesday, March 12.

Premier Chris Minns said the annual event was one of the “immense privileges” that come with the job.

“The work that has made NSW one of the most culturally diverse and socially cohesive places in the world happens every day,” he said.

“It is driven by the dedication and commitment of individuals across our communities.”

Morales said Heartdancers is the only organisation in the Central Coast, Hunter and Newcastle areas that solely focuses on collaborating with artists from First Nations and culturally diverse backgrounds.

Since it was founded in 2014, Heartdancers has generated over $800,000 in income and development opportunities for more than 300 artists.

“Being a dancer since I was young instilled in me the transformative power of the arts, so this felt like a natural calling,” Morales said.

“I grew up in Colombia around a mix of cultures; Indigenous, African and Spanish.

“I’ve seen first-hand how culture and creativity can build bridges and heal wounds.”

Heartdancers has three flagship programs.

Artistry on Wheels is a mobile pop-up stage that brings artists directly to audiences.

Through the Cultural Agency, Morales and the team design, deliver and curate festivals and events to showcase the talented creatives.

The outreach program, Rhythm is Life, brings creative activities like dance to older people in First Nations and culturally diverse communities.

“The work is deeply personal to me and in many ways it’s about justice,” Morales said.

“We’re not just showcasing the work of these talented artists.

“We’re creating platforms where cultural heritage gets the respect it deserves.”

Last year, Heartdancers partnered with the NRL to curate the 2024 NRL & NRLW Grand Final show for the opening of the 2024 Pacific Championships.

“We brought together 81 artists, dancers and musicians from seven Pacific nations, and they performed in front of 85,000 people,” Morales said.

The performance integrated contemporary elements alongside traditional practices, showcasing the richness of Pacific cultures.

In 2023, Heartdancers curated a series of festivals and events that celebrated the contributions of LGBTIQ+ artists from First Nations and culturally diverse backgrounds.

Morales and her team are currently in talks to produce a culturally diverse arts event on the Central Coast.

“This work is my life’s purpose – and I’ll keep doing all I can in creating an environment where all arts and culture are valued,” she said.

The Arts and Culture Medal, in honour of Carla Zampatti, is sponsored by Powerhouse.