Shantel Wetherall

Strategist & Storyteller

Shantel Wetherall is a Creative Strategist, cultural leader, and the founder of Wake Studio, a consultancy dedicated to helping purpose-driven organisations braid together story, culture, and system change to amplify their impact. With over 15 years of professional experience, Shantel has worked across DE&I, gender equity, and narrative-driven transformation, partnering with organisations to create meaningful, community-centered change.

A Belize Creole woman and member of the Caribbean Research Methodologies Group, Shantel’s work is deeply informed by her lived experience and her ongoing Master’s research into the narrative preferences of culturally diverse communities. She is passionate about using storytelling as a tool to build connection, drive equity, and create systemic transformation.

Shantel’s career spans global organisations and sectors, including roles at Clifford Chance LLP, Accenture, Arts Centre Melbourne, and Cohealth. She has led impactful projects such as Google’s Rare Leadership Academy and collaborated with brands like Nike, creating narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Her words have been published in outlets like The Guardian and Sydney Morning Herald, reaching over a million readers.

At Wake Studio, Shantel partners with organisations to deliver insights-driven strategies, co-design practices, and culturally enriched projects. Her work emphasizes equity, authenticity, and collaboration, with a particular focus on amplifying First Nations voices and fostering health equity.

Through her strategic and creative leadership, Shantel has established herself as a trusted voice in culture, equity, and purpose-driven storytelling, helping organisations craft legacies that make a lasting impact.

For more information or to collaborate, contact Shantel at shantel@wakestudio.com.au.