Marissa "Riss" Pohlman's incredible journey began when she discovered boxing as a way to escape a difficult childhood marked by foster care and homelessness. Boxing quickly became her passion and transformed her life as she embarked on an amateur boxing career at just 17 years old. The turning point in Riss' career came when she received the prestigious 2021 Sport Australia Hall of Fame scholarship, which provided the financial support she needed to pursue her dreams.

Riss draws her strength from her coach Kel Bryant OAM. Bryant, who operates a not-for-profit boxing gym aimed at developing national champions, serves as Marissa's greatest inspiration. She also credits her challenging childhood and the hardships she faced as the driving force behind her determination to succeed against all odds.

Marissa is the first ever Aboriginal woman to qualify for the Olympics in the sport of boxing. Riss is deeply committed to caring for the land and advocating for community-led land management initiatives.