Meet Ballarat’s Poetess, Megan J Riedl - a bold, neurodivergent creator whose work spans spoken word, theatre, collage, and community workshops. Megan is not only an artist, but also a single mum and proud autistic woman whose creative journey is as layered and powerful as her poetry.

Like many artists, Megan’s path was reshaped by the pandemic. But instead of retreating, she leaned in - learning that when one opportunity fades, another often rises. Her connection with the Ballarat Arts Foundation began with a grant to produce a video accompanying her poetry about violence against women. That moment wasn’t just financial support - it was artistic validation. It gave Megan the confidence to step fully into her creative identity.

From grant recipient to Executive Assistant at BAF, and later a mentee in their mentoring program, Megan began to see her art not just as expression, but as enterprise. She embraced branding, self-promotion, and the idea that a creative career isn’t just possible - it’s powerful.

With creativity running deep in her family and a fierce commitment to authenticity, Megan’s story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the transformative power of art. Tune in as she shares her journey, her insights, and the passion that fuels her work.

https://www.meganjriedl.com/