Curriculum Vitae

University of Sydney School of Literature, Arts and Media research practices - Media Communications.
Lecturer, Course coordinator

 Following my work lecturing at the University of Sydney I have been asked to coordinate the research practices course for media communications.

“Blanche Violet Maher Landscapes and Portraits 1894-1920”
Author

An art book about a late Victorian-era Australian female photographer.

Mothers in the Mountains App (iOS game) to support maternal health in the Himalayas
Developer (voluntary work)

Since becoming a Director of AHF in 2015, I have constantly sought new ways to reach and activate a diverse range of potential donors and advocates for women’s health on a global scale.
The latest in this line up of projects and initiatives is a mobile game, Mothers in the Mountains, developed to appeal to members of the general public, whilst providing the entertainment value of a game traditionally used to pass time on a commute.
The project is a co-creation with a previous student of mine, Chloe Malone, and we have used the platform of iOS gaming as a means to raise awareness of the maternal health crises in developing countries. Additionally, we have built in a commercial outcome, incentivising players to become donors and providing a direct fundraising channel for the maternal health program itself.

Five Steps (Feature film, Australia/Bhutan)
Co-Producer

As Producer I was delighted to again bring together the team that made The Container (64th Cannes International Film Festival 2011, 38th Brussels International Independent Film Festival), to tell this heart-warming story of a young Bhutanese man who learns to sing, dance, fight, fly and speak English, in the hopes of becoming an actor in Bollywood.

Artree Nepal, 2020 Biennale of Sydney

I provided patronage and community support for the installation Not Less Expensive Than Gold to appear at the Biennale of Sydney; the first time Nepalese artists have ever been selected to feature in the Biennale. The work is comprised of video, drawings and sculptural replica of Allopathic medicines, actual herbs and documents that respond to the corruption and commercialisation of the health system in a striking act of protest.
Not Less Expensive Than Gold draws attention to the fact that medicinal plants used by indigenous people for thousands of years have now become export goods, forcing locals to use prohibitively-expensive, commercial health services for basic treatment, at venues located far from their villages.

The Asian Arts Society of Australia (TAASA)
Review Volume No. 2

I authored a piece profiling Not Less Expensive Than Gold in TAASA’s Magazine, which included interviews with the contributing artists and detailed the work’s statement, its cultural backstory and how it can be experienced from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

United Nations

Launch of Bhutan Himalayan Climate Studies working with the United Nations representative in Bhutan, The head of external relations for the Royal University of Bhutan and eminent biologist Professor Lesley Hughes from Macquarie University. I set up the structure and developed a website and connections with scientists to develop the first in the series of climate change Phd programs and Bhutan Science Dialogues.
bhutanhimalayanclimatestudies.com

Australian Himalayan Foundation 2017-present
Member of Finance and Governance

In this role I oversee both the finances and governance of the organisation to ensure we’re able to pragmatically deliver on our strategic objectives and adhere to our obligations. As a transnational organisation striving to improve living standards on another continent, our adherence to efficiency, transparency, ethical conduct and is paramount to our ongoing success.

Australian Himalayan Foundation 2017-present
Chair, Program Advisory Committee

As Chair I oversee a group of program development experts, who assess which programs AHF will select for sponsorship, based on their effectiveness and potential impact within the respective communities. We factor in input from subject matter experts and draw on our organisation members’ collective experience on the ground to ensure a robust process of consideration and evaluation. I am incredibly proud of the standard and volume of excellent programs AHF has put into action in this time, shaped by the Committee’s recommendations.

Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Commerce, University of Sydney Business School 2016-19
Academic Lecturer

The Future of Business unit enables students to test and apply their knowledge, by tackling real world problems that draw on their business acumen and cultural competence.
I relished this opportunity to further develop my expertise in teaching, and draw on my diverse experience in business, strategy and academia to collaborate with and challenge a diverse range of young minds to adopt a globally conscious mindset in their studies and commercial practise beyond uni.

School of Media Communications, University of Sydney 2016-present
Lecturer Media Communications

This role features a unique and stimulating mix of focus areas, including PR, publicity and campaign development. I am responsible for creation and delivery of weekly lectures for the student cohort undertaking media and communications majors. The course draws on both my lived experience in marketing, media and entrepreneurship together with course theory. Covering topics such as media relations and campaign management.

Australian Himalayan Foundation
Director (voluntary work)

After joining the Australian Himalayan Foundation in 2013 as an International Program Committee Member, I was honoured by my subsequent appointment as the Foundation’s Director in 2015. The appointment to the board of directors enabled me to contribute to the Foundation’s work in a more substantial way, working with the Chairman and other board members and staff to develop, implement and steer the organisation’s strategy and programs which focus on helping the people of the Himalaya through sustainable improvements in health, education and conservation in Nepal, the Indian Himalaya and Bhutan.

Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
University of Adelaide

In 2015 my studies in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Adelaide came to an end when I was awarded my Master’s Degree in September 2015.

Start up consulting and development

In 2014 I commenced work as a consultant for a diverse range of start up businesses advising them on entrepreneurship, concept development and marketing. This work stemmed from some of the research and practical components of studying my Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Adelaide.

• Tutoristas 2014-15
  Following on from my work in schools with programs such as Buddhism for Kids and Homework Assist, in 2014 I launched Tutoristas, a home-tutoring service offering K-6 primary school private tutoring. Certified as a teaching service by the Australian Tutoring Association, Tutoristas is aims to provide expert guidance for students in a wide range of relevant primary school subjects, including English, mathematics, science, and language study.

Her Majesty Ashi Sangay Wangchuk Queen Mother of Bhutan’s tour of Australia - Australian Himalayan Foundation
Host & Co-Organiser

This tour was Her Majesty’s first ever visit to Australia, with the express purpose of raising awareness and funds for her RENEW organisation (Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women). The resulting trip was a tremendous success; Her Majesty met with Australia’s Foreign Minister in Canberra, visited an exhibition at the National Gallery, and toured the country stopping at a number of fundraising dinners, hosted by the likes of Mark Carnegie.

This was a fantastically rewarding experience, and I relished the chance to hold stakeholder briefings, lead the tour and arrange meetings for Her Majesty.

Lotus Outreach International Advisory Committee
Board Member (voluntary work)

Following on from my tenure as President of Lotus Outreach Australia, I was appointed as a member of the Advisory Committee for Lotus Outreach International. This committee performs an advisory role for the international arm of the organisation and is comprised of past Presidents of Lotus Outreach’s national chapters from various countries.

Australian Himalayan Foundation 2013-16
International Program Committee Member (voluntary work)

In 2013 I became a member of the International Program Committee for the Australian Himalayan Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation which undertakes charitable projects in India and Nepal. The projects focus on three key areas: health & medical services, education and, environment & conservation. Much of my professional and voluntary work has ties to this region and my involvement in the Foundation is an important way for me to contribute to its development and promote causes which I am passionate about.
www.australianhimalayanfoundation.org.au

Start up consulting and development - Homework Assist

Building on the success of the Homework Assist model at Bondi Public School, in 2013 I was able to expand the program to include other Sydney-based schools, to the delight of parents, teachers and students alike.

Buddhism for Kids
Founder/Coordinator (voluntary work)

Following successfully teaching meditation and Buddhism in schools worked with a team in 2013 developing the offering to include books and video resources that teach meditation and the principles of Buddhism in a way that is easily accessible for young people.

Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, University of Adelaide 2012-15

Seeking to build further on my entrepreneurial (both commercial and not-for-profit) pursuits, in 2012 I began a Master’s degree with University of Adelaide in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The course focuses on innovative SMEs – thinking about them, understanding them, developing them from idea through to the marketplace.
The course provides a mix of academic business theory along with real-world case studies and a consistent focus on practical applications to translate the ideas and strategies encountered over into practice in high potential SMEs.
Through this program of study I hope to gain further analytic insight into my history of entrepreneurial forays and further develop my skills and strategic, innovative thinking and apply these to my current work in my own businesses, as a consultant and in my volunteer work.

Buddhism for Kids (voluntary work) 2012-13
Founder

I launched Buddhism for Kids in 2012 as a resource hub for curious children (and parents) to facilitate understanding about the basic tenets of Buddhism and encourage development of ideas and experimentation with meditation. Working with felicity Lodro under the guidance of Traleg Rinpoche  (one of the great teachers of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism), we  put together material to teach  100 primary students under the age of 10 about Buddhism and meditation.

Hope Initiative / Hope for Orphans Japan (voluntary work)
Founder & Board Member

Following the devastating earthquakes and tsunami which hit Japan in 2011, I founded Hope Initiative, a not-for-profit organisation that raises funds for the key organisations which provide immediate and long-term material and emotional support to orphanages, directly and indirectly affected by the earthquakes and tsunami. Associated projects include funding summer camps, counselling, music therapy, computer room & resources and photography workshops for the children left orphaned by the disasters.
In my role as founder and board member I drew on my experience working with not-for-profits as well as media and artists, securing a number of high-profile ambassadors from the arts and commercial sectors including Liam Neeson, Jimmy Barnes and Akira Isogawa, to help raise awareness for the cause. I also organized the fundraising event Hope for Orphans Japan which raised $86,000 with 100% of all proceeds going directly to the organisations that Hope Initiative supports.
Hope Initiative website

Vogue India Magazine Article

During my trip to India to film American Dream I came across a vintage photograph of a Maharani. In the course of my research to discover the identity of the photographs subject I contacted Indian Vogue who invited me to write an article about the photograph and the woman it depicts. The article was published in the November 2011 edition of Vogue India.

American Dream (film)
Co-producer

This Bhutanese feature was filmed in India and examines the culture of Hollywood from the perspective of a Buddhist monk with celebrity aspirations. I acted as a co-producer on the project working with much of the same crew from The Container.

The Container Film at Cannes International Film Festival
& 38th Brussels International Independent Film Festival

In 2011 I took the film to the Cannes International Film Festival where it was shown in the Short Film Corner. It was well received by critics and audiences alike. It was also featured as part of the 38th Brussels International Independent Film Festival.

Homework Assist 2010-15
Founder

Adding to my entrepreneurial portfolio and continuing my focus on cultural and community projects, I launched homeworkassist.org as a school-based homework club which combines relaxation and homework tasks for primary school children. The key principle is providing a structured and social environment in which kids are encouraged to help each other and undertake self-led learning on a regular basis which encourages assertiveness, autonomy, social skills, self-discipline and respect.

Production Work 2009-13

Following my extensive history of cultural exchange with the nation of Bhutan as well as my experience with media production, I was selected as a representative of BBS (Bhutan Broadcasting Service), as well as appointed a Director of Cinema Booth. These positions have seen me assume a number of key production roles for films made both in Australia and abroad.

Turkmenistan Delegation

Combining my media expertise with my professional and cultural associations with Turkmenistan, I embarked on an amazing journey to Turkmenistan after receiving an invitation from the Minister of Carpets. In tow was my crack team – a carpet expert (Michael Prato from Afghan Interiors) as well as a photographer to document the expedition.
The trip was featured in an article for Pop Magazine.

Official Invitee to the Coronation of Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

I was honoured by an official invitation to the Coronation of Bhutan's Fifth King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck following on from my long history of cultural exchange with the nation of Bhutan.

Gore Vidal Interview

Drawing on my media background and my political expertise, I sat down with Gore Vidal for an interview for Brink Travel, Life Magazine and Hong Kong Television. The interview covered Vidal's role as a social and political commentator and his feelings regarding the role of the media and commentators in the contemporary political environment.

Lotus Outreach Australia (voluntary work) 2007-12
President

After several years volunteering as Secretary for Lotus Outreach Australia (amongst other voluntary and professional work) I was honoured by my appointment as President of the organisation. Lotus Outreach Australia raises awareness and funds to assist children in Cambodia and India who are victims of the child sex trade.

During my time with the organization as President I was:

• Appointed to the International Board

• Responsible for developing the new website

• Strategist for fundraising efforts and public awareness campaigns

During my tenure as President we tripled our scholarship recipient commitments from 50 to 150 and I helped to increase the program reach by securing funding from AusAid.

The Container – Bhutanese Short Film
Producer

Drawing on my production knowledge and project management skills, and combining these with my love for and knowledge of the Bhutanese region and culture, I produced a uniquely Bhutanese short film. The Container features a native-born cast and crew, beautiful locations and a touching story about a desperate mother's quest to get medicine for her sick baby.
This film was featured as part of the 38th Brussels International Independent Film Festival and the 2011 Cannes International Film Festival.
Further information is available on the film's website (archived website). More media.

Mummita 2005-15
Non-Executive Director
Global E-Commerce Manufacturing

After recognizing a gap in the market for products relating specifically to post-natal women, I put my project management, design and entrepreneurial skills to good use and I launched a new company - Mummita.
Mummita is a global online manufacturing and distribution company that develops products for new parents.
I took the responsibility of developing the business plan, sourcing manufacturing and distribution channels in addition to finding and employing the right design experts.

Highlights include:

• Leading the company from a start up to increasing revenue by 20% per month

• Establishing the brand's name in seven countries via internet marketing campaigns, PR and excellent word of mouth referrals

• Developing distribution channels in three overseas countries

• Creating five new product lines in 24 months

www.mummita.com

Global Compact Agency (formerly Pialla) 2004-12
Program Director

Building on my experience working on the Global Compact Development Project for the UN, I was appointed Program Director of Pialla. Pialla is an agency that promotes the ideas of the United Nations Global Compact by building education and entertainment programs for developing communities. It is funded and resourced by private enterprise and government agencies working in conjunction with community groups.
As Program Director, I developed and monitored the success of the ongoing Piallastrategy and business plan.
I created programs in direct consultation with the communities they were intended to benefit, as well as Pialla sponsors – managing these to ensure a positive outcome.
Highlights included establishing Pialla as a Global Compact Agency for the United Nations in the Asia Pacific region, developing a new website and numerous projects including:

Project 1: Pialla and Department of Aboriginal Affairs Travelling Film Show.
I successfully lobbied the Department of Aboriginal Affairs to fund and undertake the Pialla program. Following this, I also created a template for ongoing film shows and an income-generating model for remote communities to promote future ventures.

Project 2: Pialla, Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS)
In this instance I acted as project leader by developing the ideas and seeking cowriters to write a documentary piece. I then negotiated with and secured BBS as a co-producer for the documentary.

Project 3: Turkmenistani Art Exhibition Oct 2005
I facilitated the introduction of Turkmenistani artist Juma Aman Durdieva to Australia and developed an interest among Australian art dealers and agents.

More media.

Parisian Investment Property (maternity leave project)

Prior to my daughterʼs birth I sourced an investment property in Paris which I manage as a successful holiday let and pied-à-terre.
http://www.parisflat.info (archived website) More media.

United Nations Global Compact Development Project 2002-03

During my time at the UN I had the privilege of working on the Global Compact (GC) Development Project, an initiative designed to encourage businesses to partner with the UN in an effort to promote human security in developing nations. My interests were to bring this initiative to Australia. In order to do so, I had to develop a proposal which assessed the feasibility of establishing such an agency in Australia. My proposal was accepted and endorsed by the UN and paved the way for Pialla to be created.
It was my success with this project which led to my subsequent appointment as the Public Information Campaign Manager later that year. More media.

United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) 2002-03
Public Information Campaign Manager

Following my internship at the UN, I moved into a professional role in the organisation, developing their public awareness campaigns and as a result, significantly boosted the awareness of the UN and its activities within the Asia Pacific region.
I particularly focused on creating branding that would speak to the 18-35 year-old demographic, increasing the relevance of the UN within the younger adult community.

United Nations Intern

I was handpicked by the UN to undertake a three-month internship. During this amazing period I developed and managed a documentary campaign commemorating East Timor's independence – which was distributed through over 60 international media and cinema outlets upon its release.
It was my success with this project which led to my subsequent appointment as the Public Information Campaign Manager later that year.

Short St Gallery 2000-01
Director & Facilitator

My skills in project management and business development, honed at Grainger Television, translated well into my role at Short St Gallery. This involved planning and managing events which would raise the profile of contemporary Aboriginal art. I developed a showcase at Australia Square from start to finish – balancing budgets, sourcing sponsorship, publicity campaigns and securing Aboriginal artists as hosts.
As a result, a number of blue chip companies (including Macquarie Bank and Qantas) purchased pieces for their collections and I was invited to develop a similar exhibition in London. More media.

Grainger Television 1998-2000
Business Development Manager

My experience at The Lyric primed me for a new challenge in management, this time at a television production company. Grainger Television previously only specialised in the production of travel and nature documentaries, however Greg Grainger (Director) wanted to expand their scope to include corporate, training and management video content.
I helped to develop and manage both new and existing high-profile clients – including McDonalds, Johnson and Johnson, The Chinese Tourism Board and the Sydney Bridge Climb. More media.

Sea theatre Festival (voluntary work) 1995-97
Board Member

Volunteering my time and expertise was a passion I discovered early on in my career. While I was developing my skills in paid roles I had the pleasure of working with the Sea Theatre Festival, a Sydney-based festival on the Bondi-to-Bronte coastline, attracting 25,000 people.
I was able to secure (for the first time ever) the coastal walk for the purpose of using it as a festival forum, which paved the way for many subsequent festivals including Sculpture By the Sea. More media.