What do you do in your role at TACSI?
I’m a senior social innovator, which means I lead the design and management of projects that aim to improve our communities.
When you're not at work, what do you get up to?
I try to find balance by blending the energetic with the calming. You might find me hiking beachside or mountain trails, soaking up the afternoon sun and chasing sunsets. On quieter days, I’ll roll out my mat for a yin yoga session, grounding myself in stillness and reflection. I also love to channel my creativity into themed dinners, where hosting becomes a playful exploration of fun and flavour.
What change would you like to see in the world, and why?
I’d like to see a world where design becomes a tool for fostering connection and belonging, celebrating cultural inclusivity, and addressing systemic challenges with empathy and creativity.
Whether through co-design, storytelling, or creating spaces that feel deeply personal and meaningful, I envision a more emotionally connected, socially aware, and purpose-driven future. I'm driven to create a design culture where every project is a step toward a more inclusive and compassionate world.
What were you doing before working at TACSI?
Before working at TACSI, I was an independent human-centred design consultant. During this time I focused on strategic and experience design, working on place-based projects that brought together my love for people, places and culture. I grew a lot during this period, also completing my co-design training, and post-graduate studies in Aboriginal Studies and business coaching.
Prior to that, I worked for a global architecture and experience design firm, where I honed my skills in co-design, participatory processes, and creating inclusive spaces, places and experiences, all of which helped shape my holistic approach to design and community engagement.
Who inspires you, and why?
I'm really inspired by activists who fight for women's and children's rights. Their passion and the way they use their voices to create ripples in society truly embolden me. I'm also deeply inspired by First Nations activists here in Australia and around the world.
Their resilience, strength, and dedication to justice and preserving their cultures motivate me. Despite the challenges they face, they persist in pushing for equality and recognition. Their courage reminds me that even small actions can make a meaningful difference.
Looking back at your career, what’s been the highlight?
Looking back, one of the absolute highlights has been living and working in Shanghai, China, for three years. It was an incredible experience that broadened my horizons both personally and professionally. Immersing myself in such a vibrant and dynamic city taught me so much about place branding and multidisciplinary design.
I got to align different elements like tenancies, events and spatial innovations to create cohesive user experiences. It deepened my love for discovering how places can better connect with people on a meaningful level.
What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
Right now, I'm immersing myself in TACSI's First Nations resources, exploring books that I haven't had the chance to read yet (and didn't have the suitcase space to bring with me from Melbourne!).
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you 'grew up'?
I was always deeply into art and loved immersing myself in creativity and research. I dreamed of becoming an artist or art therapist, so I could paint and draw all day. Winning awards for my posters and drawings in primary school really encouraged my passion. In high school, I even did work experience with a paediatric art therapist, which was incredibly inspiring.
This combination of creativity and a thirst for adventure has always been at the heart of what I wanted to do when I grew up.
What's a book, film or resource that you would recommend to someone interested in social impact?
It depends on where you are in your journey, but for those looking to get into social impact from a design background, I would recommend exploring resources that focus on the people side of design innovation. Here are some courses and organisations that offer valuable insights:
What's something on your bucket list?
Embarking on a multi-day trek through the Dolomites in Italy. It's going to happen soon!