Meet The Mates - Sophia Power Walters

Welcome back to our “Meet Our Mates” series, where we introduce you to the incredible individuals behind Hey Mate’s clinical team. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Sophie — a counsellor, musician, producer, and mum who deeply understands the emotional heartbeat of creative life. Her lived experience fuels everything she brings to Hey Mate, and she’s especially passionate about supporting women and mothers in the arts. Thoughtful, grounded, and endlessly encouraging, she’s one of the gentlest powerhouses in our team.

What is your position at Hey Mate / Mate Studio?

I am a Counsellor

Could you share some highlights from your creative industry experience before joining Hey Mate?

Playing at Port Fairy Music Festival, 30 weeks pregnant!

Which aspect of your work at Hey Mate ignites your passion, and what makes it so meaningful to you?

What ignites my passion for creative mental health is my own lived experience as a musician, creative producer, and mother. I know first hand how creativity is deeply tied to identity, wellbeing, and belonging, and I’m driven to support women and mothers who are navigating that same terrain. I feel most inspired when I can help someone reconnect with their creative self, honour their emotional rhythms, and find a sustainable, nurturing relationship with their art.

If you could champion one change in the creative industry, what would it be and how would it make a difference?

Less stigma around aging musicians! Some of the best music I have heard is from Musicians in their 60’s. This would encourage musicians to keep following their craft, without ‘aging out’.

Everyone has a story; what’s a quirky or unexpected chapter / fact from yours?

When I was 21, I put myself on a plane and auditioned for Juilliard in NYC – made it to the final round call backs– this experience built up my confidence as a creative and introduced me to some of the world’s best people – artists!!

Reflecting on the guidance you’ve received over the years, which piece of advice stands out and continues to influence you today?

If not today, when? Write the song. Go to the dance class. Even if it’s one step at a time, you are still moving in the direction you want to go.