Describe yourself in ten words …
Connector of people doing amazing things in the community.

What’s a typical day like for you?
A run along the river at New Farm followed by a phone call to my family to kickstart my day. From there, it’s off to a job that I love and then catching up with friends or immersing myself in TEDxSouthBankWomen (TEDxSBW) jobs.

The theme for TEDxSouthBankWomen is ‘Positive Disruption’ – what does this concept mean to you?
That anyone from any walk of life can and should challenge the status quo. It’s the only way that change and innovation will occur.

Which presenters are you particularly excited about hearing, and why?
I can’t really say all, can I? All presenters will challenge those attending and those listening around the world to stop, reflect and act and so you don’t miss a beat – Michelle Law will wrap it up to ensure you can remember the whole day in less that 13 minutes.

You’ve been working tirelessly to bring the event together, what can attendees expect from the day?
Electricity! TEDxSBW leaves every person in the room wanting more. Engagement and community are our number-one priority. Expect to fall in love with those you meet and expect to believe anything is possible by the end of the night.

What do you think it is about the TEDx formula that affects viewers on such a personal level?
Each TEDx event is different, and each different licensee has a unique perspective on what affects viewers on a personal level. My belief is that it’s the sense of community that forms around a TEDx event and that the speakers are vehicles to empowering those who see their talk to action their own ideas.

What do you hope Brisbane locals will take away from the experience?
A belief in endless possibility and a community that will help them achieve their dreams.

You also manage the Advancement Department of International House at the University of Queensland, can you tell us a bit more about your role?
Ultimately my role is to grow and develop the International House community by bringing together current students with alumni around the world. Part of the role is connecting generous individuals and organisations looking to support young and diverse leaders while at university through the forming of scholarships and support networks. I consider myself to be very lucky, I know my work helps connect the wider community with amazing young people who are going to be the future leaders of our world. It’s exciting working in philanthropy and advancement in Australia at the moment – it’s an emerging field and I’m excited to be a part of its evolution!

Which inspiring Australian thinkers/organisations do you have your eye on?
I love the work that the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME) does, bringing university students together with indigenous school children. The passion they can bring into university and school students is really impressive and I’m confident they’re going to make a huge impact on Australia’s culture.

What’s the secret formula for turning your ideas into reality?
Take the plunge and do what you love! Too often I hear about people staying in a job they don’t love or not chasing their dream because they’re scared they might fail or they feel they don’t have the support they need. I believe in taking opportunities when they appear in front of you and I love that the TEDxSBW community provides support and encouragement to those who want to chase their dreams.

What five things complete your week?
Talking to my family, running with my partner, meeting someone new doing amazing things, helping someone and when ice-cream is on special!

The last thing that took your breath away was … whenever I see people being authentic and real.

What influences and inspires your work?
An urgency to make this life count.

How do you like to start your weekend?
Running Mount Coot-tha. It’s quiet, peaceful and challenging. The breakfast at the end is a good incentive too.

How do you like to unwind?
I love going to the beach down at the Tweed coast, it clears my mind and allows me to refocus on what’s truly important.

What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
Family. Exercise. Nanna naps. Productivity. Slow-cooked dinner. Red wine. Ice-cream. (In any order.)

What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Family dinners with my favourite people. It always ends in uncontrollable fits of laughter.

What are you reading at the moment?
I got a subscription to TIME magazine recently. It’s the best and worst decision I’ve made. Best because it’s the perfect way to get a snapshot of what happened in the world during the week and worst because a new magazine arrives weekly and I’m always shocked when I find it’s Monday again.

What was your childhood dream?
To be a cowgirl. I loved horses.

What has been your greatest achievement so far?
Bringing together an inspiring and motivating team and group of advocates who are able to pull off TEDxSBW on top of working full-time and doing a bucketload of other amazing work.

What is success to you?
Helping one person and doing what you love.

What are your words of wisdom?
‘Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity’ – Simone Weil.

Only a local would know … the State Library of Queensland has an endless supply of events and workshops to grow yourself. It’s much more than just books!

FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Campos, Fortitude Valley.
Relax … Commune, Burleigh Heads, followed by a swim at Greenmount Beach at Tweed Heads.
Dine …  Brents Restaurant, Toowong.
Indulge … At home in New Farm.
Shop … Jan Power’s Powerhouse Farmers Market, New Farm.
Catch-up … Pablo, New Farm.
Be inspired … State Library of Queensland, South Bank.