Speakers
Admiral Manganda
Dilin Duwa Postdoctoral Fellow
University of Melbourne
University of Melbourne
Admiral Manganda
Dilin Duwa Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Melbourne
Dr. Admiral Manganda is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership at the University of Melbourne, where he researches Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development. His work examines how Indigenous entrepreneurs navigate cultural and commercial imperatives, as well as policies that support economic self-determination through mechanisms such as preferential procurement.
Dr. Admiral Manganda is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership at the University of Melbourne, where he researches Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development. His work examines how Indigenous entrepreneurs navigate cultural and commercial imperatives, as well as policies that support economic self-determination through mechanisms such as preferential procurement.
Alex Hannant
Director
Social Enterprise Australia
Social Enterprise Australia
Alex Hannant
Director, Social Enterprise Australia
Alex Hannant has extensive experience in sustainable development, social enterprise and innovation. His current focus is to better understand systems change and the infrastructures needed for regenerative futures. He is Director at Pocketknife, Director at Social Enterprise Australia and Co-Chair of B Lab Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Previous roles include Executive in Residence at Griffith Centre for Systems Innovation, Co-Director and Professor of Practice at The Yunus Centre Griffith, CEO of the Ākina Foundation (NZ), and Head of Partnerships at the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (UK).
Alex Hannant has extensive experience in sustainable development, social enterprise and innovation. His current focus is to better understand systems change and the infrastructures needed for regenerative futures. He is Director at Pocketknife, Director at Social Enterprise Australia and Co-Chair of B Lab Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Previous roles include Executive in Residence at Griffith Centre for Systems Innovation, Co-Director and Professor of Practice at The Yunus Centre Griffith, CEO of the Ākina Foundation (NZ), and Head of Partnerships at the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (UK).
Amber O’Connell
Director Social Impact Investing Trials
Department of Social Services
Department of Social Services
Amber O’Connell
Director Social Impact Investing Trials, Department of Social Services
Amber O’Connell is committed to utilising the best of both business and social policy to enable a more equitable and just society. Currently the Director of Social Impact Investing and Social Enterprise Policy at the Department of Social Services, Amber has over 20 years of local and international experience in the social economy from an impact investor, capability building, and policy making perspective.
Amber O’Connell is committed to utilising the best of both business and social policy to enable a more equitable and just society. Currently the Director of Social Impact Investing and Social Enterprise Policy at the Department of Social Services, Amber has over 20 years of local and international experience in the social economy from an impact investor, capability building, and policy making perspective.
Anthony Rohr
People and Culture Manager
Community Resources Australia
Community Resources Australia
Anthony Rohr
People and Culture Manager, Community Resources Australia
Anthony Rohr is passionate about empowering people and driving business success through effective people practices. With more than 20 years of experience, he has made significant contributions in HR, safety, and assurance roles across a variety of industries, including social enterprise, community and disability services, consulting, warehouse and distribution and labour hire.
Anthony Rohr is passionate about empowering people and driving business success through effective people practices. With more than 20 years of experience, he has made significant contributions in HR, safety, and assurance roles across a variety of industries, including social enterprise, community and disability services, consulting, warehouse and distribution and labour hire.
Belinda Morrissey
CEO
English Family Foundation
English Family Foundation
Belinda Morrissey
CEO, English Family Foundation
Belinda Morrissey is passionate about how we collectively build forward just, sustainable and inclusive economies. Through her role as CEO of the English Family Foundation Belinda has gained deep experience within the Australian social enterprise sector. She couples this with an extensive leadership background in both corporate and not for profit organisations to work across sectors. She has a strong focus on the development of collaborative systems-based solutions that mobilize capital and the ecosystems needed to create long term social change. She is the Chair of Social Enterprise Australia, is Co-Chair of the Social Enterprise Funders Network and sits on the Advisory Council of the Foundations Group for Impact Investing. In her personal capacity she is also Chair of ActionAid Australia.
Belinda Morrissey is passionate about how we collectively build forward just, sustainable and inclusive economies. Through her role as CEO of the English Family Foundation Belinda has gained deep experience within the Australian social enterprise sector. She couples this with an extensive leadership background in both corporate and not for profit organisations to work across sectors. She has a strong focus on the development of collaborative systems-based solutions that mobilize capital and the ecosystems needed to create long term social change. She is the Chair of Social Enterprise Australia, is Co-Chair of the Social Enterprise Funders Network and sits on the Advisory Council of the Foundations Group for Impact Investing. In her personal capacity she is also Chair of ActionAid Australia.
Bianca Stern
General Manager and Founding Member, All Things Equal
Bianca Stern
General Manager + Founding Member, All Things Equal
Bianca Stern is the General Manager and a Founding Member of All Things Equal, with a background in education, disability, and social enterprise. She is energised about inclusive employment, philanthropy, and empowering both young leaders and people with disability to be meaningful contributors to society. Bianca has created countless workforce opportunities for people with disability and is as committed as ever to see workplaces reflect the society we live in.
Bianca Stern is the General Manager and a Founding Member of All Things Equal, with a background in education, disability, and social enterprise. She is energised about inclusive employment, philanthropy, and empowering both young leaders and people with disability to be meaningful contributors to society. Bianca has created countless workforce opportunities for people with disability and is as committed as ever to see workplaces reflect the society we live in.
Bill Mithen
Co-CEO
Neighbourhood Economics
Neighbourhood Economics
Bill Mithen
Co-CEO, Neighbourhood Economics
Bill’s areas of expertise span leadership, management, governance, social innovation, strategic planning, business development and policy, making him a powerhouse in the philanthropic sector. His career is marked by significant roles in equity management within various SMEs, senior executive positions in a multinational corporation, and leadership in an international humanitarian development organisation. Having spent 13 years at the helm of Give Where You Live Foundation, a unique, place-based philanthropic community foundation, Bill is well-placed to think about the intersection between place and social enterprise.
Bill’s areas of expertise span leadership, management, governance, social innovation, strategic planning, business development and policy, making him a powerhouse in the philanthropic sector. His career is marked by significant roles in equity management within various SMEs, senior executive positions in a multinational corporation, and leadership in an international humanitarian development organisation. Having spent 13 years at the helm of Give Where You Live Foundation, a unique, place-based philanthropic community foundation, Bill is well-placed to think about the intersection between place and social enterprise.
Carmen Garcia AM
Founder and CEO
Community Corporate
Community Corporate
Carmen Garcia AM
Founder and CEO, Community Corporate
Carmen Garcia is the Founder and CEO of national award-winning diversity and inclusion certified social enterprise Community Corporate. She is widely recognised as a leading expert, creating economic and social impact solutions through partnerships with the corporate sector that maximise employment and skilling opportunities for refugees and migrants. She brings more than 20 years' experience working in refugee resettlement, migration, community development, training and workforce strategy across the public, private and community sectors.
Carmen Garcia is the Founder and CEO of national award-winning diversity and inclusion certified social enterprise Community Corporate. She is widely recognised as a leading expert, creating economic and social impact solutions through partnerships with the corporate sector that maximise employment and skilling opportunities for refugees and migrants. She brings more than 20 years' experience working in refugee resettlement, migration, community development, training and workforce strategy across the public, private and community sectors.
Chabel Khan
Research Fellow
Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Chabel Khan
Research Fellow, Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Dr Chabel Khan is a Research Fellow at the Melbourne Social Equity Institute, University of Melbourne. Drawing on his experience as a sociologist and social policy researcher, Chabel's research explores pathways to securing inclusive social care and economies for marginalised communities. He currently contributes to and manages the 'Activating Employment Futures Through Work Integration Social Enterprise (WISE)' project, where he collaborates with researchers, industry partners, and the social enterprise ecosystem to create and share knowledge about scaling the work of WISEs in Australia.
Dr Chabel Khan is a Research Fellow at the Melbourne Social Equity Institute, University of Melbourne. Drawing on his experience as a sociologist and social policy researcher, Chabel's research explores pathways to securing inclusive social care and economies for marginalised communities. He currently contributes to and manages the 'Activating Employment Futures Through Work Integration Social Enterprise (WISE)' project, where he collaborates with researchers, industry partners, and the social enterprise ecosystem to create and share knowledge about scaling the work of WISEs in Australia.
Christina Chun
Chief Operating Officer
Social Enterprise Australia
Social Enterprise Australia
Christina Chun
Chief Operating Officer, Social Enterprise Australia
Christina Chun is dedicated to combating inequity by optimising solutions, and leveraging data and strategic partnerships for continuous improvement and growth. She has successfully founded and built social enterprises that have gained recognition from Westpac’s Top 200 Businesses of Tomorrow, Forbes 30u30 (Asia), and Marie Claire’s Glass Ceiling Awards. With deep leadership experience within the social enterprise sector and government, Christina combines her passion for systems thinking and meaningful change to drive sustainable impact. More recently, she has chaired the boards of the Environmental Music Prize, Consent Labs and the Social Enterprise Council of NSW & ACT.
Christina Chun is dedicated to combating inequity by optimising solutions, and leveraging data and strategic partnerships for continuous improvement and growth. She has successfully founded and built social enterprises that have gained recognition from Westpac’s Top 200 Businesses of Tomorrow, Forbes 30u30 (Asia), and Marie Claire’s Glass Ceiling Awards. With deep leadership experience within the social enterprise sector and government, Christina combines her passion for systems thinking and meaningful change to drive sustainable impact. More recently, she has chaired the boards of the Environmental Music Prize, Consent Labs and the Social Enterprise Council of NSW & ACT.
Coralie Nichols
CEO
The Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation
The Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation
Coralie Nichols
CEO, The Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation
Coralie Nichols brings more than 20 years of executive leadership in local government across NSW and Queensland and has also held CEO roles in the not-for-profit sector in the Northern Territory and NSW. She's a Graduate of the AICD, holds qualifications from Harvard Business School, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney University and Wollongong University, and was a Telstra Business Women's Awards Finalist in 2017. Now CEO of the Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation, Coralie is a fierce advocate for systems change, social justice and purpose-led impact.
Coralie Nichols brings more than 20 years of executive leadership in local government across NSW and Queensland and has also held CEO roles in the not-for-profit sector in the Northern Territory and NSW. She's a Graduate of the AICD, holds qualifications from Harvard Business School, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney University and Wollongong University, and was a Telstra Business Women's Awards Finalist in 2017. Now CEO of the Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation, Coralie is a fierce advocate for systems change, social justice and purpose-led impact.
Craig North
Executive Director
Firesticks
Firesticks
Craig North
Executive Director, Firesticks
A proud Bidjara man, Craig North has held senior positions in Indigenous economic development and impact. Prior to being Executive Director of Firesticks, an Indigenous-led enterprise dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities and practitioners in restoring and maintaining the health and wellbeing of Country and community, he founded Indigenous Impact to promote and support new Indigenous impact investment opportunities. He's held senior executive positions at the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation and served as the CEO of its commercial agribusiness subsidiary. Craig has held non-executive director positions in the areas of native title and native foods and botanicals. He is a non-executive director of Resilience Canopy and a First Nations advisor with Mannifera. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science and a Graduate Certificate in Business, and he is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors course. He completed the Impact Finance Innovations Program through a scholarship at the University of Oxford in 2022.
A proud Bidjara man, Craig North has held senior positions in Indigenous economic development and impact. Prior to being Executive Director of Firesticks, an Indigenous-led enterprise dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities and practitioners in restoring and maintaining the health and wellbeing of Country and community, he founded Indigenous Impact to promote and support new Indigenous impact investment opportunities. He's held senior executive positions at the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation and served as the CEO of its commercial agribusiness subsidiary. Craig has held non-executive director positions in the areas of native title and native foods and botanicals. He is a non-executive director of Resilience Canopy and a First Nations advisor with Mannifera. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science and a Graduate Certificate in Business, and he is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors course. He completed the Impact Finance Innovations Program through a scholarship at the University of Oxford in 2022.
Dewi Cooke
CEO
The Social Studio
The Social Studio
Dewi Cooke
CEO, The Social Studio
Dewi Cooke is the CEO of The Social Studio, a not-for-profit social enterprise providing work and training opportunities in fashion and the creative industries to refugee and new migrant communities. Here, she oversees an RMIT-accredited training program, an ethical manufacturing studio and a socially-conscious retail venture as well as numerous creative and community projects. She was previously a journalist and has a Masters in Journalism from Columbia University in New York.
Dewi Cooke is the CEO of The Social Studio, a not-for-profit social enterprise providing work and training opportunities in fashion and the creative industries to refugee and new migrant communities. Here, she oversees an RMIT-accredited training program, an ethical manufacturing studio and a socially-conscious retail venture as well as numerous creative and community projects. She was previously a journalist and has a Masters in Journalism from Columbia University in New York.
Dominic Nicholls
CEO
Mimal Land Management Aboriginal Corporation
Mimal Land Management Aboriginal Corporation
Dominic Nicholls
CEO, Mimal Land Management Aboriginal Corporation
Dominic Nicholls brings over a decade of experience in Indigenous land management, with a strong focus on governance, policy, and organisational leadership within Arnhem Land. His career spans frontline ranger work to CEO roles, underpinned by a passion for community advocacy, cultural connection, and collaborative change. With roots in campaigning, threatened species protection, and sustainability, Dominic leads with integrity, systems thinking, and a deep respect for people and place.
Dominic Nicholls brings over a decade of experience in Indigenous land management, with a strong focus on governance, policy, and organisational leadership within Arnhem Land. His career spans frontline ranger work to CEO roles, underpinned by a passion for community advocacy, cultural connection, and collaborative change. With roots in campaigning, threatened species protection, and sustainability, Dominic leads with integrity, systems thinking, and a deep respect for people and place.
Duncan Fogg
Director
Seedkit, Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Seedkit, Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Duncan Fogg
Director, Seedkit, Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Duncan Fogg supports Australian social enterprises and their partners to access data and knowledge capability which can be used to grow their collective social impact. Prior to Seedkit, he led a social innovation nonprofit organisation in the UK which focused on demonstrating new models of social change by bringing together both community members and subject matter experts to form new startups, partnerships or alliances for change. As part of this work, he led a number of systems change collaborations across the sector, particularly focusing on delivering more just, community-led, and appropriate funding across civil society. Duncan is most passionate about solving pressing social issues using collaborative approaches which require more democratic organising structures, shared learning, fluid operating models and new enabling environments.
Duncan Fogg supports Australian social enterprises and their partners to access data and knowledge capability which can be used to grow their collective social impact. Prior to Seedkit, he led a social innovation nonprofit organisation in the UK which focused on demonstrating new models of social change by bringing together both community members and subject matter experts to form new startups, partnerships or alliances for change. As part of this work, he led a number of systems change collaborations across the sector, particularly focusing on delivering more just, community-led, and appropriate funding across civil society. Duncan is most passionate about solving pressing social issues using collaborative approaches which require more democratic organising structures, shared learning, fluid operating models and new enabling environments.
Edwina Walsh
CEO
Assembled Threads
Assembled Threads
Edwina Walsh
CEO, Assembled Threads
Edwina Walsh is the CEO and Founder of Assembled Threads, an award-winning social enterprise revitalising local garment manufacturing in Australia. A FIT New York graduate with a global background in apparel development and trend forecasting, she launched Assembled Threads in 2021 to create jobs for migrant and refugee women through ethical, circular uniform production. Her work transforms government and corporate procurement into a powerful tool for social impact and sustainability.
Edwina Walsh is the CEO and Founder of Assembled Threads, an award-winning social enterprise revitalising local garment manufacturing in Australia. A FIT New York graduate with a global background in apparel development and trend forecasting, she launched Assembled Threads in 2021 to create jobs for migrant and refugee women through ethical, circular uniform production. Her work transforms government and corporate procurement into a powerful tool for social impact and sustainability.
Fiona Jose
CEO
Cape York Partnership
Cape York Partnership
Fiona Jose
CEO, Cape York Partnership
Fiona Jose belongs to Kuku Yalanji and Zenadth Kes peoples of Cape York and the Torres Straits. The Cape York Partnership Group is a First Nations organisation driving a comprehensive reform agenda improving the lives of Indigenous families in Cape York. Fiona oversees the Group’s 10 entities and businesses which include two schools, a landscape and construction company, a health clinic and a digital financial empowerment platform. CYP employs 350 people, 65% of whom are First Nations. Fiona is one of 10 First Nations leaders at the cutting edge of the pioneering national Empowered Communities reform initiative that is shifting governments from the failing status-quo approach to a system focused on productivity and development outcomes.
Fiona Jose belongs to Kuku Yalanji and Zenadth Kes peoples of Cape York and the Torres Straits. The Cape York Partnership Group is a First Nations organisation driving a comprehensive reform agenda improving the lives of Indigenous families in Cape York. Fiona oversees the Group’s 10 entities and businesses which include two schools, a landscape and construction company, a health clinic and a digital financial empowerment platform. CYP employs 350 people, 65% of whom are First Nations. Fiona is one of 10 First Nations leaders at the cutting edge of the pioneering national Empowered Communities reform initiative that is shifting governments from the failing status-quo approach to a system focused on productivity and development outcomes.
Frédéric Bailly
Executive VP
Groupe SOS
Groupe SOS
Frédéric Bailly
Executive VP, Groupe SOS
Frédéric Bailly has 30 years of experience in the social and solidarity economy. As Executive Vice President of GROUPE SOS, he leads international strategy and real estate development. He joined GROUPE SOS in 1995, creating economic inclusion enterprises. In 2010, he became Managing Director of the group's real estate cooperative, overseeing a €1 billion portfolio. Since 2017, he has expanded GROUPE SOS internationally, now employing 500 people across 12 entities in 50 countries. Frédéric is also Secretary General of the Pact for Impact alliance and a founding member of Catalyst Now. He is a Knight of the French Order of Merit.
Frédéric Bailly has 30 years of experience in the social and solidarity economy. As Executive Vice President of GROUPE SOS, he leads international strategy and real estate development. He joined GROUPE SOS in 1995, creating economic inclusion enterprises. In 2010, he became Managing Director of the group's real estate cooperative, overseeing a €1 billion portfolio. Since 2017, he has expanded GROUPE SOS internationally, now employing 500 people across 12 entities in 50 countries. Frédéric is also Secretary General of the Pact for Impact alliance and a founding member of Catalyst Now. He is a Knight of the French Order of Merit.
Gebro Buli
Community Network Lead
Firesticks
Firesticks
Gebro Buli
Community Network Lead, Firesticks
Gebro Buli is a proud Wik Mungkan, Thanakwith, and Erub Island woman with a strong background in employment and training. With over 10 years of experience across community, government, and industry sectors, she has developed deep expertise in community engagement, strategic planning and workforce development. Her work is grounded in cultural integrity and a commitment to ensuring mob are not just participants in programs, but leaders in shaping their own futures.
Gebro Buli is a proud Wik Mungkan, Thanakwith, and Erub Island woman with a strong background in employment and training. With over 10 years of experience across community, government, and industry sectors, she has developed deep expertise in community engagement, strategic planning and workforce development. Her work is grounded in cultural integrity and a commitment to ensuring mob are not just participants in programs, but leaders in shaping their own futures.
Geoff Smith
CEO
Australian Spatial Analytics
Australian Spatial Analytics
Geoff Smith
CEO, Australian Spatial Analytics
Geoff Smith is a social entrepreneur and inclusion advocate committed to reducing unemployment and increasing tech skills for young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds. A data analyst by trade, Geoff puts into action the idea that technology can create work and wealth for disadvantaged communities. He views social enterprise as the vehicle for unlocking autistic talent pools for traditional employers. Geoff is also the 2025 Queensland Australian of the Year.
Geoff Smith is a social entrepreneur and inclusion advocate committed to reducing unemployment and increasing tech skills for young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds. A data analyst by trade, Geoff puts into action the idea that technology can create work and wealth for disadvantaged communities. He views social enterprise as the vehicle for unlocking autistic talent pools for traditional employers. Geoff is also the 2025 Queensland Australian of the Year.
George Cooley
Artist
APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
George Cooley
Artist, APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
George Cooley is a senior man and community leader from Coober Pedy. He holds leadership positions across the Umoona and Coober Pedy communities and is a talented artist and opal miner. George paints the landscape surrounding his Country, particularly the Breakaways — an important site 25km north of Coober Pedy known for its spectacular hills, mesas and plains. George was selected as a finalist in the 2023 and 2024 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards and the 2024 Wynne Prize, and included in the 2024 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art: Inner Sanctum.
George Cooley is a senior man and community leader from Coober Pedy. He holds leadership positions across the Umoona and Coober Pedy communities and is a talented artist and opal miner. George paints the landscape surrounding his Country, particularly the Breakaways — an important site 25km north of Coober Pedy known for its spectacular hills, mesas and plains. George was selected as a finalist in the 2023 and 2024 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards and the 2024 Wynne Prize, and included in the 2024 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art: Inner Sanctum.
Glenda Abraham
CEO
Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation
Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation
Glenda Abraham
CEO, Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation
Glenda Abraham spent the majority of her career in banking and finance, working with boards, government and the Australian financial regulators. Over the last few years, she has had the opportunity to live her passion, working with a variety of Aboriginal corporations to support governance, build economic resilience and supporting their advocacy. Success for Glenda has been establishing frameworks for the vulnerable member policy for Aboriginal retirement benefits and securing millions in federal and state funding allowing several Northern Territory based Aboriginal corporations time to migrate to self-sustainable business models. Glenda is the Chief Executive Officer of Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation and continues to provide Aboriginal board consultancy services and advocacy.
Glenda Abraham spent the majority of her career in banking and finance, working with boards, government and the Australian financial regulators. Over the last few years, she has had the opportunity to live her passion, working with a variety of Aboriginal corporations to support governance, build economic resilience and supporting their advocacy. Success for Glenda has been establishing frameworks for the vulnerable member policy for Aboriginal retirement benefits and securing millions in federal and state funding allowing several Northern Territory based Aboriginal corporations time to migrate to self-sustainable business models. Glenda is the Chief Executive Officer of Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation and continues to provide Aboriginal board consultancy services and advocacy.
Grant Coker-Williams
Interim CEO
Blueline Laundry
Blueline Laundry
Grant Coker-Williams
Interim CEO, Blueline Laundry
Grant Coker-Williams has been with Blueline Laundry since 2016 commencing in Blueline’s Launceston laundry before moving to a statewide role. Grant has extensive leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector, including disability employment, apprenticeships and traineeships, social enterprise development and implementation of quality assurance systems. Grant has previously been General Manager of the largest Tasmanian not-for-profit Job Services Australia and Disability Employment Network provider in Tasmania.
Grant Coker-Williams has been with Blueline Laundry since 2016 commencing in Blueline’s Launceston laundry before moving to a statewide role. Grant has extensive leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector, including disability employment, apprenticeships and traineeships, social enterprise development and implementation of quality assurance systems. Grant has previously been General Manager of the largest Tasmanian not-for-profit Job Services Australia and Disability Employment Network provider in Tasmania.
Hanna Ebeling
CEO
SEFA
SEFA
Hanna Ebeling
CEO, SEFA
Hanna Ebeling is CEO at Sefa, working with social purpose organisations on capital solutions and capability uplift to suit their needs, helping these organisations build organisational sustainability and access finance from a range of impact investors. From traditional banking with HSBC to venture philanthropy in the Philippines, Hanna brings a global practice lens to Sefa. Her passions include blended finance in partnership with foundations, community-led enterprises, and ground-breaking housing models. She is on the board of disability service provider Woodville Alliance and social enterprise Vanguard Laundry, and as a member of government and sector reference groups contributes to improving for-purpose collaboration between government, philanthropy and the private sector.
Hanna Ebeling is CEO at Sefa, working with social purpose organisations on capital solutions and capability uplift to suit their needs, helping these organisations build organisational sustainability and access finance from a range of impact investors. From traditional banking with HSBC to venture philanthropy in the Philippines, Hanna brings a global practice lens to Sefa. Her passions include blended finance in partnership with foundations, community-led enterprises, and ground-breaking housing models. She is on the board of disability service provider Woodville Alliance and social enterprise Vanguard Laundry, and as a member of government and sector reference groups contributes to improving for-purpose collaboration between government, philanthropy and the private sector.
Harry Sillett
Partnership Associate
Paul Ramsay Foundation
Paul Ramsay Foundation
Harry Sillett
Partnership Associate, Paul Ramsay Foundation
Harry Sillett works across PRF on a range of initiatives, including advancing economic dignity, supporting community-led economic development, and testing outcomes-based funding models that explore innovative ways of incentivising impact. He also oversees the Foundation's existing investment in WISEs, and believes everyone who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so. Prior to PRF, Harry led Vanguard Laundry, a not-for-profit commercial laundry in Toowoomba, and one of the biggest WISEs in Queensland. At Vanguard, he witnessed firsthand the power of WISEs to create pathways to meaningful, purposeful careers for people facing complex barriers to employment.
Harry Sillett works across PRF on a range of initiatives, including advancing economic dignity, supporting community-led economic development, and testing outcomes-based funding models that explore innovative ways of incentivising impact. He also oversees the Foundation's existing investment in WISEs, and believes everyone who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so. Prior to PRF, Harry led Vanguard Laundry, a not-for-profit commercial laundry in Toowoomba, and one of the biggest WISEs in Queensland. At Vanguard, he witnessed firsthand the power of WISEs to create pathways to meaningful, purposeful careers for people facing complex barriers to employment.
Ingrid Burkett
Co-director
The Good Shift
The Good Shift
Ingrid Burkett
Co-director, The Good Shift
Ingrid Burkett is a social innovator, a maker, a big picture thinker. She draws experience from fields as diverse as finance, social work and design into a focus on systems innovation. Ingrid has a passion for innovating the ‘boring’ – underlying civic and institutional capabilities and infrastructures to enable society to co-create positive futures. Her research and work have contributed to the design of policy and processes across many fields including procurement and impact investment.
Ingrid Burkett is a social innovator, a maker, a big picture thinker. She draws experience from fields as diverse as finance, social work and design into a focus on systems innovation. Ingrid has a passion for innovating the ‘boring’ – underlying civic and institutional capabilities and infrastructures to enable society to co-create positive futures. Her research and work have contributed to the design of policy and processes across many fields including procurement and impact investment.
Jess Moore
CEO
Social Enterprise Australia
Social Enterprise Australia
Jess Moore
CEO Social Enterprise Australia
Jess Moore is passionate about social justice and climate safety, and people working together to create change. Her work has always been in social innovation, in peak organisations, social enterprise and community development. Prior to SEA Jess was a Director at Social Enterprise Council NSW and ACT and CEO at Community Resources, one of Australia’s largest jobs focussed social enterprises. She also led social enterprise Green Connect through startup and scaleup. Jess came into social enterprise from a background in public policy, advocacy and movement building, and has led collaborations that changed government policy and decisions.
Jess Moore is passionate about social justice and climate safety, and people working together to create change. Her work has always been in social innovation, in peak organisations, social enterprise and community development. Prior to SEA Jess was a Director at Social Enterprise Council NSW and ACT and CEO at Community Resources, one of Australia’s largest jobs focussed social enterprises. She also led social enterprise Green Connect through startup and scaleup. Jess came into social enterprise from a background in public policy, advocacy and movement building, and has led collaborations that changed government policy and decisions.
Jessica Mendoza-Roth
Founder & CEO
Social Impact Hub
Social Impact Hub
Jessica Mendoza-Roth
Founder & CEO, Social Impact Hub
Jessica Mendoza-Rothis the Founder and CEO of the Social Impact Hub, which mobilises people, organisations and capital for good. She is a consultant to the impact investment sector and has held roles at Blue River Group and Impact Investment Group. Previously a solicitor at King & Wood Mallesons, Jessica holds degrees from UNSW and Harvard Law School, where she was a R.G. Menzies Scholar.
Jessica Mendoza-Rothis the Founder and CEO of the Social Impact Hub, which mobilises people, organisations and capital for good. She is a consultant to the impact investment sector and has held roles at Blue River Group and Impact Investment Group. Previously a solicitor at King & Wood Mallesons, Jessica holds degrees from UNSW and Harvard Law School, where she was a R.G. Menzies Scholar.
Jill Ashley
Co-founder
Shore Track
Shore Track
Jill Ashley
Co-Founder Shore Track
Jill Ashley has background in both business and education and strong connections to her community, is well placed to deliver on her passion of helping young people achieve their goals through supported pathways. Jill has developed a number of award-winning programs which focus on developing young people’s skills and confidence through hands on project-based activities while linking them to industry and community-based mentors. Jill enjoys relaxing in the beautiful Nambucca Valley where she lives with her partner and sometimes her two grown children and two dogs.
Jill Ashley has background in both business and education and strong connections to her community, is well placed to deliver on her passion of helping young people achieve their goals through supported pathways. Jill has developed a number of award-winning programs which focus on developing young people’s skills and confidence through hands on project-based activities while linking them to industry and community-based mentors. Jill enjoys relaxing in the beautiful Nambucca Valley where she lives with her partner and sometimes her two grown children and two dogs.
Jo Barraket AM
Director
Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Jo Barraket AM
Director, Melbourne Social Equity Institute
Jo Barraket AM is Director of Melbourne Social Equity Institute (MSEI) and Professor of Policy Studies. MSEI is an interdisciplinary research institute which contributes to fairer societies through community-engaged and coproductive research that makes a difference. Jo’s own research focuses on social innovation and the relationships between governments and the social economy in creating change. She has extensive experience conducting research in partnership with social enterprises, government and philanthropy, and in the translation of scholarly outputs into tools and advice that improve policy and organisational practice.
Jo Barraket AM is Director of Melbourne Social Equity Institute (MSEI) and Professor of Policy Studies. MSEI is an interdisciplinary research institute which contributes to fairer societies through community-engaged and coproductive research that makes a difference. Jo’s own research focuses on social innovation and the relationships between governments and the social economy in creating change. She has extensive experience conducting research in partnership with social enterprises, government and philanthropy, and in the translation of scholarly outputs into tools and advice that improve policy and organisational practice.
Judi Drown
Head of Policy
Social Enterprise Australia
Social Enterprise Australia
Judi Drown
Head of Policy, Social Enterprise Australia
Judi Drown began her working life as a community social worker in family and children’s services. She extended her impact in that area when she joined the Federal Government, helping to shape social policies on reducing violence against women and children, paid parental leave and protecting children in out-of-home care. Most recently the Director of Social Impact Investing Policy in the Department of Social Services, Judi led the big Federal Government initiatives to strengthen social enterprise and social impact in recent years. She designed and implemented the Government’s social impact trials to build the social enterprise market and test social impact investments. She also created the Social Enterprise Development Initiative (SEDI) to build capability in social enterprises and the sector. And she established the Commonwealth Outcomes Fund to grow social impact investing in Australia by improving the evidence base for social policy interventions.
Judi Drown began her working life as a community social worker in family and children’s services. She extended her impact in that area when she joined the Federal Government, helping to shape social policies on reducing violence against women and children, paid parental leave and protecting children in out-of-home care. Most recently the Director of Social Impact Investing Policy in the Department of Social Services, Judi led the big Federal Government initiatives to strengthen social enterprise and social impact in recent years. She designed and implemented the Government’s social impact trials to build the social enterprise market and test social impact investments. She also created the Social Enterprise Development Initiative (SEDI) to build capability in social enterprises and the sector. And she established the Commonwealth Outcomes Fund to grow social impact investing in Australia by improving the evidence base for social policy interventions.
Julie Duncan
Head of Diversity, Inclusion & Talent
Australia Post
Australia Post
Julie Duncan
Head of Diversity, Inclusion & Talent, Australia Post
Julie Duncan is a high energy, outcomes focused executive with a strong drive to get stuff done, taking on challenges and solving complex challenges. With a reputation built on delivering commercial results, Julie is known for her authentic and inclusive leadership style. As Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Talent at Australia Post, Julie and her team focus on developing and implementing strategies that support marginalised and underrepresented communities and multigenerational workforce changes. Julie thrives in fast-paced, complex stakeholder environments and specialises in innovative talent management, employer marketing, and workforce transformation. She believes in the power of amplifying voices and coaching others to drive growth and foster an inclusive workplace culture where everyone can thrive.
Julie Duncan is a high energy, outcomes focused executive with a strong drive to get stuff done, taking on challenges and solving complex challenges. With a reputation built on delivering commercial results, Julie is known for her authentic and inclusive leadership style. As Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Talent at Australia Post, Julie and her team focus on developing and implementing strategies that support marginalised and underrepresented communities and multigenerational workforce changes. Julie thrives in fast-paced, complex stakeholder environments and specialises in innovative talent management, employer marketing, and workforce transformation. She believes in the power of amplifying voices and coaching others to drive growth and foster an inclusive workplace culture where everyone can thrive.
Julie McKay
Founder and MD
Enable Social Enterprises
Enable Social Enterprises
Julie McKay
Founder & MD, Enable Social Enterprises
Committed to social justice and finding new and innovative ways to support disadvantaged community, Julie McKay is well-regarded for her innovation, passion and expertise in and for the Social Enterprise sector and Circular Economy. Backed up by multiple business awards, for the past decade under Julie's leadership Enable has demonstrated the significant impact of work integrated social enterprise in the circular economy, not only diverting e-waste from landfill but creating inclusive employment pathways and making technology more affordable and accessible for the community.
Committed to social justice and finding new and innovative ways to support disadvantaged community, Julie McKay is well-regarded for her innovation, passion and expertise in and for the Social Enterprise sector and Circular Economy. Backed up by multiple business awards, for the past decade under Julie's leadership Enable has demonstrated the significant impact of work integrated social enterprise in the circular economy, not only diverting e-waste from landfill but creating inclusive employment pathways and making technology more affordable and accessible for the community.
Kate Barrelle
Co-founder and Chief Impact Officer
STREAT
STREAT
Kate Barrelle
Co-founder and Chief Impact Officer, STREAT
Dr Kate Barrelle, clinical/forensic psychologist, is Co-founder and Chief Impact Officer at STREAT, a leading Melbourne Work Integration Social Enterprise (WISE). She designed STREAT’s evidence-based youth programs and impact measurement. Passionate about behaviour change, fairness and effective WISE models, Kate is deeply involved in cross-sector collaborations like Moving Feast and the Purpose Precinct initiative. She facilitates WISE Communities of Practice to tackle shared challenges. She bridges research and practice to build practical tools for social enterprise practitioners. She is also the handler of STREAT's therapy dog, Magic.
Dr Kate Barrelle, clinical/forensic psychologist, is Co-founder and Chief Impact Officer at STREAT, a leading Melbourne Work Integration Social Enterprise (WISE). She designed STREAT’s evidence-based youth programs and impact measurement. Passionate about behaviour change, fairness and effective WISE models, Kate is deeply involved in cross-sector collaborations like Moving Feast and the Purpose Precinct initiative. She facilitates WISE Communities of Practice to tackle shared challenges. She bridges research and practice to build practical tools for social enterprise practitioners. She is also the handler of STREAT's therapy dog, Magic.
Kirra Johnson
CEO
Good Cycles
Good Cycles
Kirra Johnson
CEO, Good Cycles
Kirra Johnson is CEO at Good Cycles, a jobs-focused social enterprise that creates employment pathways for young people in sustainable industries. With 20 years in the social impact sector, her experience spans executive and senior-level operational and organisational development roles, as well as governance-level leadership, in social enterprise and non-profit organisations. She has a passion for designing strategy, business models and programs that balance financial sustainability with social impact. Kirra is an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact Swinburne and a 2023 Westpac Social Change Fellow.
Kirra Johnson is CEO at Good Cycles, a jobs-focused social enterprise that creates employment pathways for young people in sustainable industries. With 20 years in the social impact sector, her experience spans executive and senior-level operational and organisational development roles, as well as governance-level leadership, in social enterprise and non-profit organisations. She has a passion for designing strategy, business models and programs that balance financial sustainability with social impact. Kirra is an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact Swinburne and a 2023 Westpac Social Change Fellow.
Kristy Masella
CEO
Aboriginal Employment Services
Aboriginal Employment Services
Kristy Masella
CEO, Aboriginal Employment Services
Kristy Masella is a proud Murri and South Sea Islander woman and CEO of Aboriginal Employment Services (AES), the largest and most successful Indigenous recruitment and group training company in Australia, which empowers Indigenous people through employment and community development. She is an advisor to the University of Sydney and the University of Technology, and a former co-chair of the NSW Reconciliation Council. Kristy has dedicated her life to empowering Aboriginal communities. Before working for AES, she was Head of Social Justice for Aboriginal Affairs NSW. Kristy has been named one of Australia’s Top 100 Most Influential Women by the Australian Financial Review and Westpac and recognised as one of the Top Ten Category winners as Diversity Winner. In 2021, she was a finalist for the NSW Woman of Excellence Award and finalist for NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year.
Kristy Masella is a proud Murri and South Sea Islander woman and CEO of Aboriginal Employment Services (AES), the largest and most successful Indigenous recruitment and group training company in Australia, which empowers Indigenous people through employment and community development. She is an advisor to the University of Sydney and the University of Technology, and a former co-chair of the NSW Reconciliation Council. Kristy has dedicated her life to empowering Aboriginal communities. Before working for AES, she was Head of Social Justice for Aboriginal Affairs NSW. Kristy has been named one of Australia’s Top 100 Most Influential Women by the Australian Financial Review and Westpac and recognised as one of the Top Ten Category winners as Diversity Winner. In 2021, she was a finalist for the NSW Woman of Excellence Award and finalist for NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year.
Libby Ward-Christie
Director
Centre for Social Purpose Organisations
Centre for Social Purpose Organisations
Libby Ward-Christie
Director, Centre for Social Purpose Organisations
Libby Ward-Christie is Director of the Melbourne Business School, Centre for Social Purpose Organisations. Libby brings a wealth of experience in applied social purpose research, education and engagement. Her specialist knowledge spans social enterprise, social finance, impact measurement and evaluation, and for-purpose strategy and governance.
Libby Ward-Christie is Director of the Melbourne Business School, Centre for Social Purpose Organisations. Libby brings a wealth of experience in applied social purpose research, education and engagement. Her specialist knowledge spans social enterprise, social finance, impact measurement and evaluation, and for-purpose strategy and governance.
Lisa Fowkes
Director, Employment Initiatives
Social Ventures Australia
Social Ventures Australia
Lisa Fowkes
Director, Employment Initiatives, Social Ventures Australia
Dr Lisa Fowkes has spent over 20 years as a practitioner, researcher and policy advocate in the employment sector. She worked in senior roles at a large nonprofit employment services provider for nearly 10 years. Her PhD examined the design and delivery of employment services in remote First Nations communities. Lisa currently leads SVA’s employment work. This work aims to improve access to quality jobs for young people at risk of exclusion by supporting employer action. Through Employer Innovation Labs, SVA supports medium-large employers to consider how their practices affect young people and helps them implement improvement initiatives.
Dr Lisa Fowkes has spent over 20 years as a practitioner, researcher and policy advocate in the employment sector. She worked in senior roles at a large nonprofit employment services provider for nearly 10 years. Her PhD examined the design and delivery of employment services in remote First Nations communities. Lisa currently leads SVA’s employment work. This work aims to improve access to quality jobs for young people at risk of exclusion by supporting employer action. Through Employer Innovation Labs, SVA supports medium-large employers to consider how their practices affect young people and helps them implement improvement initiatives.
Loes Westerbeek
Social Sustainability Manager
Ventia
Ventia
Loes Westerbeek
Social Sustainability Manager, Ventia
Loes's passion for ESG and sustainability, particularly social sustainability, is rooted in her extensive understanding of its impact on communities. With more than two decades of experience in management and board roles, she recognises the critical role businesses play in improving quality of life and fostering equitable societies. She is a strong advocate for social enterprises, understanding their ability to create lasting social value.
Loes's passion for ESG and sustainability, particularly social sustainability, is rooted in her extensive understanding of its impact on communities. With more than two decades of experience in management and board roles, she recognises the critical role businesses play in improving quality of life and fostering equitable societies. She is a strong advocate for social enterprises, understanding their ability to create lasting social value.
Luke Terry
Founder and CEO
White Box Enterprises
White Box Enterprises
Luke Terry
Founder and CEO, White Box Enterprises
Luke Terry co-founded White Box Enterprises (WBE) in 2019 to systematically address the constraints he routinely confronted when launching social enterprises: access to affordable space, access to catalytic capital, and to partnerships that would help mainstream jobs-focused social enterprise in Australia. Luke is a dynamic thought leader with a bias for action. His demonstrated ability to deliver large-scale employment-focused initiatives that leverage commercial opportunities has been recognised through previous start-ups (Vanguard Laundry, Ability Enterprises and Work Restart) and multiple national awards.
Luke Terry co-founded White Box Enterprises (WBE) in 2019 to systematically address the constraints he routinely confronted when launching social enterprises: access to affordable space, access to catalytic capital, and to partnerships that would help mainstream jobs-focused social enterprise in Australia. Luke is a dynamic thought leader with a bias for action. His demonstrated ability to deliver large-scale employment-focused initiatives that leverage commercial opportunities has been recognised through previous start-ups (Vanguard Laundry, Ability Enterprises and Work Restart) and multiple national awards.
Matt Pfahlert
Co-founder and CEO
ACRE
ACRE
Matt Pfahlert
Co-founder and CEO, ACRE
Matt Pfahlert is a pioneering social entrepreneur with an unwavering dedication to rejuvenating rural Australia and empowering its young people. As the co-founder and CEO of the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship (ACRE), Matt has been at the forefront of driving transformative change in rural communities, fostering social entrepreneurship and community-led rejuvenation. At just 25, Matt founded the Typo Station Youth Project, his first social enterprise, providing life-changing wilderness experiences and self-employment skills for at-risk youth. From leading the $2.7M community buy-back of the historic Old Beechworth Gaol to hosting the first Social Enterprise World Forum - Rural Gathering in the southern hemisphere, Matt has consistently championed the power of social enterprise to inspire a generational shift in social innovation and action.
Matt Pfahlert is a pioneering social entrepreneur with an unwavering dedication to rejuvenating rural Australia and empowering its young people. As the co-founder and CEO of the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship (ACRE), Matt has been at the forefront of driving transformative change in rural communities, fostering social entrepreneurship and community-led rejuvenation. At just 25, Matt founded the Typo Station Youth Project, his first social enterprise, providing life-changing wilderness experiences and self-employment skills for at-risk youth. From leading the $2.7M community buy-back of the historic Old Beechworth Gaol to hosting the first Social Enterprise World Forum - Rural Gathering in the southern hemisphere, Matt has consistently championed the power of social enterprise to inspire a generational shift in social innovation and action.
Mark Daniels
COO
White Box Enterprises
White Box Enterprises
Mark Daniels
COO, White Box Enterprises
Mark Daniels is a leading figure in the social enterprise sector in Australia. He has been a buyer from social enterprise, run a number of social enterprises and advocated for and provided services to social enterprises over a period spanning 20 years. Mark is the COO of White Box Enterprises where he oversees our work in property, finance and advisory services. Prior to coming to WBE, Mark was a co-founder of Social Traders and an Executive Director for 13 years. There he led the development of their social enterprise marketplace which has become a must-access service for corporate and government clients seeking to build social enterprises into their supply chains.
Mark Daniels is a leading figure in the social enterprise sector in Australia. He has been a buyer from social enterprise, run a number of social enterprises and advocated for and provided services to social enterprises over a period spanning 20 years. Mark is the COO of White Box Enterprises where he oversees our work in property, finance and advisory services. Prior to coming to WBE, Mark was a co-founder of Social Traders and an Executive Director for 13 years. There he led the development of their social enterprise marketplace which has become a must-access service for corporate and government clients seeking to build social enterprises into their supply chains.
Mel Sass
Operations Manager
Beacon Laundry
Beacon Laundry
Mel Sass
Operations Manager, Beacon Laundry
Mel Sass (they/them) is a queer, neurospicy kid who graduated from Charles Sturt University with a Bachelor of social work in 2012. They spent a decade working across the child youth and family services sector in government and NFP roles. Mel is the self-appointed poster child for adversity and harnesses their lived experience of addiction and recovery to do some good. Mel is currently employed as the Operations Manager at Beacon Laundry – a jobs-focused social enterprise that creates jobs for people experiencing barriers to employment.
Mel Sass (they/them) is a queer, neurospicy kid who graduated from Charles Sturt University with a Bachelor of social work in 2012. They spent a decade working across the child youth and family services sector in government and NFP roles. Mel is the self-appointed poster child for adversity and harnesses their lived experience of addiction and recovery to do some good. Mel is currently employed as the Operations Manager at Beacon Laundry – a jobs-focused social enterprise that creates jobs for people experiencing barriers to employment.
Mikhara Ramsing
Co-founder
Capyble
Capyble
Mikhara Ramsing
Co-founder, Capyble
Mikhara Ramsing is an award-winning entrepreneur, global speaker, economist and tech leader for workplaces and AI. She is an Australian Financial Review Top 100 Women of Influence, former Westpac Social Change Fellow, and finalist for the Young Australian of the Year (Queensland). She believes business can be a tool for social impact and has a Tedx Talk on social enterprise as the billion dollar opportunity.
Mikhara Ramsing is an award-winning entrepreneur, global speaker, economist and tech leader for workplaces and AI. She is an Australian Financial Review Top 100 Women of Influence, former Westpac Social Change Fellow, and finalist for the Young Australian of the Year (Queensland). She believes business can be a tool for social impact and has a Tedx Talk on social enterprise as the billion dollar opportunity.
Mohammed Yassin
Co-founder
Value Nation
Value Nation
Mohammed Yassin
Co-founder, Value Nation
Mohammed Yassin is a former refugee and entrepreneur with years of experience working in the refugee settlement and multicultural sectors. He believes in building sustainable and effective programs and ventures that create impact and change narratives. Mohammed is the Co-Founder of Value Nation, a social enterprise that helps refugees start their businesses in Australia.
Mohammed Yassin is a former refugee and entrepreneur with years of experience working in the refugee settlement and multicultural sectors. He believes in building sustainable and effective programs and ventures that create impact and change narratives. Mohammed is the Co-Founder of Value Nation, a social enterprise that helps refugees start their businesses in Australia.
Myron Mann
CEO
Bedford Group
Bedford Group
Myron Mann
Chief Executive Officer, Bedford Group
Myron Mann is a globally renowned CEO with a proven track record of disruptive strategies, performance improvement and global leadership and has worked across large companies and family businesses. He is currently using his skills to reimagine working, learning and living at Bedford Group Limited, a group of enterprises focussed on removing barriers to work and inclusive workplaces. Myron is Vice President SA State NDS Committee, a Fellow of The Governor’s Leadership Foundation and a former Director of the Leaders Institute of South Australia. Myron also serves on the Advisory Board for the Australian Institute of For Purpose Leaders and teaches Entrepreneurship at the University of Adelaide Business School.
Myron Mann is a globally renowned CEO with a proven track record of disruptive strategies, performance improvement and global leadership and has worked across large companies and family businesses. He is currently using his skills to reimagine working, learning and living at Bedford Group Limited, a group of enterprises focussed on removing barriers to work and inclusive workplaces. Myron is Vice President SA State NDS Committee, a Fellow of The Governor’s Leadership Foundation and a former Director of the Leaders Institute of South Australia. Myron also serves on the Advisory Board for the Australian Institute of For Purpose Leaders and teaches Entrepreneurship at the University of Adelaide Business School.
Nathaniel Diong
Founder & CEO
Future Minds Network
Future Minds Network
Nathaniel Diong
Founder & CEO, Future Minds Network
Nathaniel Diong is the founder of Future Minds Network, an award-winning social enterprise empowering disadvantaged youth to thrive in the future. Since 2018, they've equipped over 13,000 youth with future-ready skills to secure jobs across climate, tech, and gig economies, and to create their own employment. Alumni have started pioneering 3D-printing businesses, advanced software applications and charities supporting 10,000 elderly residents. His work has been recognised on Forbes 30 Under 30, the Diana Award, Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, and Young Australian of the Year. He has also been featured by international media, including SBS World News, Forbes, TEDx, and the Royal Palace.
Nathaniel Diong is the founder of Future Minds Network, an award-winning social enterprise empowering disadvantaged youth to thrive in the future. Since 2018, they've equipped over 13,000 youth with future-ready skills to secure jobs across climate, tech, and gig economies, and to create their own employment. Alumni have started pioneering 3D-printing businesses, advanced software applications and charities supporting 10,000 elderly residents. His work has been recognised on Forbes 30 Under 30, the Diana Award, Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, and Young Australian of the Year. He has also been featured by international media, including SBS World News, Forbes, TEDx, and the Royal Palace.
Neil Gonsalvez
Head of Disability Transformation
White Box Enterprises
White Box Enterprises
Neil Gonsalvez
Head of Disability Transformation, White Box Enterprises
Neil Gonsalves leads White Box Enterprise’s work with disability enterprises and is a social sector strategy executive who has helped social organisations to select, enter, and reshape markets around the world. He previously founded and led a strategy consultancy that advised national and global NFPs on large-scale strategy development, market entry, merger and acquisition, and strategic transformation across Australia, Europe and Africa. Neil’s past experience includes leading strategy for World Vision UK and senior consulting roles in Nous Group and Deloitte.
Neil Gonsalves leads White Box Enterprise’s work with disability enterprises and is a social sector strategy executive who has helped social organisations to select, enter, and reshape markets around the world. He previously founded and led a strategy consultancy that advised national and global NFPs on large-scale strategy development, market entry, merger and acquisition, and strategic transformation across Australia, Europe and Africa. Neil’s past experience includes leading strategy for World Vision UK and senior consulting roles in Nous Group and Deloitte.
Nicole Donnison
Social Procurement & Inclusion Manager
Icon
Icon
Nicole Donnison
Social Procurement & Inclusion Manager, Icon
Nicole Donnison brings a unique perspective from 20 years advancing social outcomes through the built environment. In her current role, she is responsible for advancing more than $60M social value creation across construction of major projects in Victoria, and is embedding the practice of social procurement across the Icon Group. Nicole is committed to creating possibility for social change and addressing inequality in our community, and is driving this change through social enterprise partnerships and inclusive employment models.
Nicole Donnison brings a unique perspective from 20 years advancing social outcomes through the built environment. In her current role, she is responsible for advancing more than $60M social value creation across construction of major projects in Victoria, and is embedding the practice of social procurement across the Icon Group. Nicole is committed to creating possibility for social change and addressing inequality in our community, and is driving this change through social enterprise partnerships and inclusive employment models.
Pat Ryan
CEO
Dismantle
Dismantle
Pat Ryan
CEO, Dismantle
Pat Ryan began his career as a social worker in crisis accommodation and has led the social enterprise Dismantle since 2014. Dismantle’s youth outreach programs have connected with thousands of young people across WA and the Work Integrated Social Enterprises has provided award-wage employment for over 100 unemployed young people, with over $1.5m in wages and growing. With a focus to accelerate the progress of WA’s emerging social enterprise sector and policy environment, Pat is also a founding and current committee member of the Western Australian Social Enterprise Council and sits on another no-profit social enterprise board, The Underground Collaborative.
Pat Ryan began his career as a social worker in crisis accommodation and has led the social enterprise Dismantle since 2014. Dismantle’s youth outreach programs have connected with thousands of young people across WA and the Work Integrated Social Enterprises has provided award-wage employment for over 100 unemployed young people, with over $1.5m in wages and growing. With a focus to accelerate the progress of WA’s emerging social enterprise sector and policy environment, Pat is also a founding and current committee member of the Western Australian Social Enterprise Council and sits on another no-profit social enterprise board, The Underground Collaborative.
Renae Lowry
Interim Executive Manager
YMCA Victoria
YMCA Victoria
Renae Lowry
Interim Executive Manager, YMCA Victoria
Renae Lowry's background is in working with organisations and businesses that want to improve their operations, grow their scale and improve their reach. Her passion is in helping the most disadvantaged people in our community become the best version of themselves.
Renae Lowry's background is in working with organisations and businesses that want to improve their operations, grow their scale and improve their reach. Her passion is in helping the most disadvantaged people in our community become the best version of themselves.
Ryan Salzke
CEO
Vanguard Laundry
Vanguard Laundry
Ryan Salzke
CEO, Vanguard Laundry
Ryan Salzke is CEO of Vanguard Laundry, a large work-integrated social enterprise he helped establish in 2016. He is a social impact leader dedicated to empowering those who face barriers to employment, leaning on various learning and experience from across various roles in corporate banking and the not-for-profit sector.
Ryan Salzke is CEO of Vanguard Laundry, a large work-integrated social enterprise he helped establish in 2016. He is a social impact leader dedicated to empowering those who face barriers to employment, leaning on various learning and experience from across various roles in corporate banking and the not-for-profit sector.
Rebecca Scott
Co-founder and CEO
STREAT
STREAT
Rebecca Scott
Co-founder and CEO, STREAT
Building alongside her wife Kate Barrelle, Bec Scott co-founded STREAT, a Melbourne-based hospitality social enterprise that provides supported training and employment pathways to young people who need a hand. The organisation runs a portfolio of 20 businesses, including cafes, kiosks, an artisan bakery, a catering company, and a coffee roastery. Since the organisation opened its doors in 2010, STREAT has worked intensively with over 1,000 young people who have helped serve Melburnians over 4 million meals and coffees. Bec has been heavily involved in building sector projects like SENVIC, Moving Feast and the Purpose Precinct, and is also passionate about youth social entrepreneurship and has supported her son Will (pictured centre) in the development of his own social enterprise Wilful Kindness.
Building alongside her wife Kate Barrelle, Bec Scott co-founded STREAT, a Melbourne-based hospitality social enterprise that provides supported training and employment pathways to young people who need a hand. The organisation runs a portfolio of 20 businesses, including cafes, kiosks, an artisan bakery, a catering company, and a coffee roastery. Since the organisation opened its doors in 2010, STREAT has worked intensively with over 1,000 young people who have helped serve Melburnians over 4 million meals and coffees. Bec has been heavily involved in building sector projects like SENVIC, Moving Feast and the Purpose Precinct, and is also passionate about youth social entrepreneurship and has supported her son Will (pictured centre) in the development of his own social enterprise Wilful Kindness.
Roksolana Suchowerska
Senior Lecturer - Social Impact
Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne
Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne
Roksolana Suchowerska
Senior Lecturer - Social Impact, Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne
Roksolana Suchowerska works with students and organisations across public, private, community and hybrid sectors to co-create knowledge for equitable and inclusive social change. With a background in political sociology, Roksolana's recent research has examined public policies and government initiatives that affect jobs-focused social enterprise—including social procurement policy and payment by outcomes.
Roksolana Suchowerska works with students and organisations across public, private, community and hybrid sectors to co-create knowledge for equitable and inclusive social change. With a background in political sociology, Roksolana's recent research has examined public policies and government initiatives that affect jobs-focused social enterprise—including social procurement policy and payment by outcomes.
Sally McGeoch
Senior Advisor
Westpac Foundation
Westpac Foundation
Sally McGeoch
Senior Advisor, Westpac Foundation
Sally McGeogh manages Westpac Foundation’s funding and capability building programs to support social enterprises creating jobs and employment pathways for people facing complex barriers to work in Australia. She has more than 17 years of experience working at the intersection of philanthropy, business and social enterprise. Prior to joining the Foundation, she led partnerships at the former School for Social Entrepreneurs and helped co-found Australia’s first social enterprise bakery, The Bread & Butter Project. Sally is passionate about strengthening collaboration to address systemic barriers to scale for Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISE) and is completing her PhD at CSI Swinburne on the role of cross-sector collaboration in scaling WISE. She is co-chair of Philanthropy Australia's Social Enterprise Funders Group and a member of the WISE Hub, a committee convened by Social Enterprise Australia to support WISEs in driving greater economic inclusion.
Sally McGeogh manages Westpac Foundation’s funding and capability building programs to support social enterprises creating jobs and employment pathways for people facing complex barriers to work in Australia. She has more than 17 years of experience working at the intersection of philanthropy, business and social enterprise. Prior to joining the Foundation, she led partnerships at the former School for Social Entrepreneurs and helped co-found Australia’s first social enterprise bakery, The Bread & Butter Project. Sally is passionate about strengthening collaboration to address systemic barriers to scale for Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISE) and is completing her PhD at CSI Swinburne on the role of cross-sector collaboration in scaling WISE. She is co-chair of Philanthropy Australia's Social Enterprise Funders Group and a member of the WISE Hub, a committee convened by Social Enterprise Australia to support WISEs in driving greater economic inclusion.
Skye O’Meara
General Manager
APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
Skye O’Meara
General Manager, APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC)
Skye O'Meara has extensive experience in the Indigenous visual arts sector having supported the management of government grant and investment programs for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board at Australia Council from 2002. She began her work with Anangu artists in 2007 in her role as Art Centre Manager of Tjala Arts. In 2012 APY Elders began developing regional programs, projects and priorities that were the catalyst to the inception of the APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC). In Skye’s term with the APYACC, it has established three fine art galleries supporting career pathways for young and early career artists, and four start-up art centres in Coober Pedy, Port Augusta, Adelaide and Oodnadatta. Skye has also played a role supporting the establishment of the APYCC international program and harnessed over $4 million in funding for art centre building upgrades.
Skye O'Meara has extensive experience in the Indigenous visual arts sector having supported the management of government grant and investment programs for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board at Australia Council from 2002. She began her work with Anangu artists in 2007 in her role as Art Centre Manager of Tjala Arts. In 2012 APY Elders began developing regional programs, projects and priorities that were the catalyst to the inception of the APY Art Centre Collective (APYACC). In Skye’s term with the APYACC, it has established three fine art galleries supporting career pathways for young and early career artists, and four start-up art centres in Coober Pedy, Port Augusta, Adelaide and Oodnadatta. Skye has also played a role supporting the establishment of the APYCC international program and harnessed over $4 million in funding for art centre building upgrades.
Steph Say
CEO
HoMie
HoMie
Steph Say
CEO, HoMie
Steph Say is CEO of HoMie an Australian streetwear label and social enterprise using fashion as a force for good. 100% of profits go to supporting young people affected by homelessness or handship to be more work-ready through employment and education programs. HoMie is quickly expanding its reach and influence, proving that profit and purpose can (and arguably, should) go hand in hand. As a passionate advocate for purpose-driven business, Steph encourages others to embrace innovation and inclusivity, showcasing how retail can drive lasting social impact and foster community empowerment. With a professional background spanning journalism, the AFL and non profits such as The Big Issue and The Reach Foundation, Steph is driven by storytelling, community engagement and social advocacy.
Steph Say is CEO of HoMie an Australian streetwear label and social enterprise using fashion as a force for good. 100% of profits go to supporting young people affected by homelessness or handship to be more work-ready through employment and education programs. HoMie is quickly expanding its reach and influence, proving that profit and purpose can (and arguably, should) go hand in hand. As a passionate advocate for purpose-driven business, Steph encourages others to embrace innovation and inclusivity, showcasing how retail can drive lasting social impact and foster community empowerment. With a professional background spanning journalism, the AFL and non profits such as The Big Issue and The Reach Foundation, Steph is driven by storytelling, community engagement and social advocacy.
Rebecca Crawley
Manager
Thamarrurr Youth Indigenous Corporation
Thamarrurr Youth Indigenous Corporation
Rebecca Crawley
Manager, Thamarrurr Youth Indigenous Corporation
Rebecca's interest in Indigenous cultures, and the value she places on learning and sharing, has enabled her to combine her studies in business, education and linguistics to create employment and work-readiness programs in rural Australia with Thamarrurr Youth Indigenous Corporation. Rebecca and her husband Justin, together with their three boys, spent many years in the remote Aboriginal community of Wadeye in the NT and share a desire to ensure all people, especially young people, are supported with opportunities to make the most of their lives.
Rebecca's interest in Indigenous cultures, and the value she places on learning and sharing, has enabled her to combine her studies in business, education and linguistics to create employment and work-readiness programs in rural Australia with Thamarrurr Youth Indigenous Corporation. Rebecca and her husband Justin, together with their three boys, spent many years in the remote Aboriginal community of Wadeye in the NT and share a desire to ensure all people, especially young people, are supported with opportunities to make the most of their lives.
Tara anderson
CEO
Social Traders
Social Traders
Tara Anderson
CEO, Social Traders
Tara Anderson is the CEO of Social Traders, a leading industry body for social enterprise and social performance established in 2008. Social Traders certify and support social enterprises to increase trade revenue while also supporting businesses to deliver and report on social performance, the "S" in ESG. Tara has international experience across social enterprise, charities, social innovation and for-purpose intermediaries in the UK, Europe and Australia. She has led large-scale collaborations, designed and implemented strategies for growth and diversification, and repositioned brands for increased impact. Her career has spanned strategy, business development, innovation, marketing, social impact and cross-sector collaboration at executive and Board level. She's passionate about seeing more businesses embed purpose and drive more social impact – to create a fairer, more equitable and sustainable world, for all of us.
Tara Anderson is the CEO of Social Traders, a leading industry body for social enterprise and social performance established in 2008. Social Traders certify and support social enterprises to increase trade revenue while also supporting businesses to deliver and report on social performance, the "S" in ESG. Tara has international experience across social enterprise, charities, social innovation and for-purpose intermediaries in the UK, Europe and Australia. She has led large-scale collaborations, designed and implemented strategies for growth and diversification, and repositioned brands for increased impact. Her career has spanned strategy, business development, innovation, marketing, social impact and cross-sector collaboration at executive and Board level. She's passionate about seeing more businesses embed purpose and drive more social impact – to create a fairer, more equitable and sustainable world, for all of us.
Valerie Richards
General Manager
Jigsaw
Jigsaw
Valerie Richards
General Manager, Jigsaw
Valerie has enjoyed experiences in NFP and social enterprise management across international development, domestic violence and now the disability sector. As General Manager of Jigsaw she sees the critical and systemic change employment pathways can bring. Her vision is to support innovative thinking in this area and to bring about real and lasting impact.
Valerie has enjoyed experiences in NFP and social enterprise management across international development, domestic violence and now the disability sector. As General Manager of Jigsaw she sees the critical and systemic change employment pathways can bring. Her vision is to support innovative thinking in this area and to bring about real and lasting impact.
