Our Story
Why Howdy
Our founder
Meet Mia, a passionate young woman from the picturesque Hunter Valley, NSW, where she juggles the demanding life of working on her family’s farm with pursuing a double degree in Agriculture and Business online. Like many in rural Australia, Mia faced the daily struggle of finding genuine connections amidst the challenges of farm life and distance learning. This isolation strikes a chord with countless rural singles who crave companionship but find it tough to meet new people.
Twelve months ago, she took a leap of faith and launched Howdy, a platform designed to bridge the gap for singles in the bush. In just a year, the app has sparked thousands of meaningful connections across rural Australia, proving that it’s more than just another dating app – it’s become a vital service for those seeking community and belonging.
At just 24 years old, Mia stands as the sole employee, determined to spread Howdy’s reach across the rural landscape. Her mission is clear: to restore a sense of community and connection that so many have been missing. Motivated by alarming mental health statistics in rural Australia, she works tirelessly, one person at a time, to bring people together and foster relationships that can uplift and support individuals living in the bush.
Howdy isn’t just about dating; it’s about building a network where every anyone in rural Australia can find their match, share stories, and create a stronger community. With Mia at the helm, the vision of a connected and thriving rural Australia is becoming a reality, and the journey has only just begun.
Success Stories
Howdy has become a real game changer out in the sticks, and the success stories are pouring in! With more than 20,000 downloads, the app is connecting lonely hearts and bringing a bit of joy to rural life in a way that just makes sense.
It’s not just about those magical love stories—though there have been loads of those too, like multiple engagements, a lovely marriage, and even some little ones on the way! Sure, finding a partner is fantastic, but what really counts is the potential for love and those good old-fashioned human connections. Sometimes, a simple text or call from someone can turn a bad day completely around, and that’s what Howdy is all about.
Can you believe it? Over 80% of the successful relationships made through Howdy are more than 300km's apart and often interstate! That’s right; country folk are seriously going the distance to find their match. It shows just how committed everyone is to discovering that special someone, no matter how far away they might be.
Whether it’s a quick chat that brightens someone’s day or a blossoming romance that leads to the aisle, the impact of Howdy is all about creating connections in every form.
So, here’s to more love stories, new friendships, and a community where everyone can feel a little less lonely!
Kate & James
“We’ve been dating for 6 weeks and meeting halfway at the local markets every weekend. The distance feels smaller when you have something to look forward to!”
Dubbo, NSW & Parkes, NSW
132km apart
Emma & Jack
“Distance isn’t a barrier when you find the right connection. We chat every night and take turns flying to see each other monthly. The app’s Australia-wide search made this possible!”
Horsham, VIC & Margaret River, WA
3,287km apart
Lucy & Ben
“We matched last month and discovered we both work in the dairy industry. Already planning to meet at the next agricultural show!"
Warwick, QLD & Toowoomba, QLD
87km apart
Breaking the Cycle of Rural Loneliness
In rural Australia, the impact of isolation on single people goes far beyond just physical distance. Recent studies reveal the devastating effects of rural loneliness:

- Single people in rural areas are 3x more likely to experience severe loneliness compared to those in relationships
- Rural singles report 67% higher rates of depression linked to romantic isolation
- Suicide rates in rural areas are 40% higher, with loneliness and lack of partnership cited as key factors
- 78% of rural singles feel “trapped” by their location when it comes to finding love
At Howdy Global, we’re not just connecting hearts – we’re actively working to combat the mental health crisis affecting rural singles. By breaking down geographical barriers and fostering meaningful connections, we’re helping create a future where distance doesn’t mean isolation.
Rural Australia is an incredible place to call home. With it comes some challenges but they don't come close to outshining the greatness. When I try to pinpoint just what makes the bush so special, it would have to be the people and overwhelming sense of community - we can't lose it.
Mia Ryan
