Maria Tran is a dynamic interdisciplinary artist and Community & Cultural Development (CCD) practitioner with a strong foundation in psychology, education, and participatory arts. With a Bachelor of Psychology from Western Sydney University and a Certificate IV in Workplace Training & Assessment, Maria brings a unique lens to arts facilitation—merging creative expression with social impact.

From 2007 to 2009, Maria served as the Youth Digital Cultures Coordinator at Information & Cultural Exchange (I.C.E), where she mobilised young people of colour through digital media activism and performance-based community projects. This early work laid the foundation for her career as a facilitator, mentor, and changemaker within multicultural and intersectional spaces.

Over the past 15+ years, Maria has designed and delivered over 100 workshops and training programs across Australia, with a particular focus on empowering culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Her workshops span a broad range of themes, including:

• Creativity & identity exploration

• Stage combat and fight choreography

• Acting and performance skills

• Public speaking & presentation

• Mental wellbeing and self-care for artists

• Community storytelling & digital activism

• Project design and delivery in community arts

Her work is grounded in inclusive, trauma-informed, and participatory practices that centre lived experience, particularly for those navigating life on the margins—artists of colour, women, youth, and migrant communities.

Maria currently co-facilitates Acting For Mindfulness, a wellness-based training program tailored for diverse performers navigating the demands of the acting and entertainment industries. She also continues to mentor emerging artists through Phoenix Eye Films and various cross-sector partnerships.

With her deep roots in Western Sydney and an expanding international presence, Maria is committed to using the arts as a tool for healing, empowerment, and transformation—building creative spaces where underrepresented voices can thrive, lead, and be seen.