Speakers

Kick-off for Diversity and Innovation 2025

Councillor Bruce Reynolds, Deputy Mayor of the City of Perth, is more than just a leader. He's a pillar of the community. With over 30 years of dedicated service, his commitment to giving back is woven into his DNA. Concillor Reynold has been instrumental in supporting not-for-profits and charities, serving as a board member, chair, and volunteer. His countless hours and resources dedicated to sponsorships have made a tangible difference in the lives of Perth's residents. As the owner of three diverse businesses spanning Property, Sales, Marketing, Branding, Design, and Hospitality, Bruce embodies the spirit of innovation and adaptability. Every day brings new challenges; he meets them with unwavering dedication and integrity.

Camilla Galbraith is the Director of Clean Energy and Wind Turbine Supply Chains at the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science & Innovation.  She has extensive experience across the Western Australian public sector, including leading strategy development for Diversify WA and the Digital Industries Acceleration Strategy, overseeing significant transport infrastructure investment, including METRONET projects. She has represented WA in significant national policy and project negotiations. In addition to JTSI, Camilla has worked at the Departments of Transport, Treasury, Premier, and Cabinet. Camilla is focused on finding novel ways for the Government to support industry and the community; as a mum, she works to build a strong Western Australia for future generations. Camilla has first-hand experience living and working in regional WA and running a small business. Camilla also has a range of volunteer experience with Girl Guides, Playgroup and the Belmont Junior Football Club.  Camilla has a Bachelor of Economics (triple major) from the University of Western Australia and is an Alumni of Australia and New Zealand School of Government.

Keynote 01: Driving Entrepreneurship Through Scientific Innovation for Diverse Women

From pioneering brain research to serving as Chief Scientist of Western Australia (2006-2013), Lyn has been a driving force in science, innovation, and gender equity. She has advised the WA Government on science, technology, and innovation, ensuring that research translates into real-world impact. A passionate advocate for neurodiverse individuals and young people, Lyn’s dedication was recognised when she was named WA Australian of the Year in 2015. She was also an inaugural inductee into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame and serves as Patron of Women in Technology WA. Lyn believes in creating "a real opportunity to change lives"—and she continues to do just that through her work.

Keynote 02: From Local Roots to Global Reach: Women Entrepreneurs Driving Transformation with Impact

Dr. Eunice Sari is the CEO and Co-Founder of UX Indonesia, a pioneering UX research, training, and consulting firm, and co-founder of Customer Experience Insight Pty Ltd (Australia). With over 25 years of experience, she has helped organisations across the USA, Europe, Australia, and Asia accelerate their digital transformation and innovate in UX design. She is the first Asian female Google Developer Expert in Product Design and Strategy and a certified Google Design Sprint Master. A leader in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and UX, she has built communities across Southeast Asia and served in various influential roles, including as an adjunct associate professor at UNSW. She is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, especially those from migrant and international backgrounds, and has actively contributed to initiatives like the Diversity & Innovation TechFest (DITF), helping foster innovation and inclusivity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

A visionary political and community advocacy leader, Karla has spent over two decades driving equity, inclusion, and multicultural empowerment across Australia’s private, government, and not-for-profit sectors. As a migrant herself, she deeply understands the importance of representation, participation, and leadership in shaping a fairer and more inclusive future. Karla founded Australia’s first political organisation dedicated to empowering diverse communities and is an advisory member of the Ministerial Multicultural Advisory Council of Western Australia. She has played a pivotal role in policy development, legislative change, and community leadership, ensuring that culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) voices are heard at every level. As a mentor, keynote speaker, and co-author of Undefeated: The Story of Influential Migrant Women in Australia, Karla champions women’s rights, political empowerment, and the critical role of diverse leadership in shaping Australia’s future.

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

Lien Duong, an Associate Professor at Curtin University's School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance, drives ESG, sustainability, and capital markets. Her dedication to research, industry engagement, and policy impact continues to shape meaningful change at both national and global levels. She plays a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality as the Deputy Convenor of the Gender Equality Committee at the United Nations Association of Australia (WA). She contributes to the Vietnam-Australia Scholars and Experts Association (VASEA) as Vice President (ESG Portfolio).

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

With over 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, and leadership, Morgen has built a career centered on storytelling, social impact, and fostering a strong national identity. Since joining Auspire – Australia Day Council WA in 2016, she has been instrumental in promoting active citizenship, celebrating inspiring Australians through the Australian of the Year Awards, and leading capacity-building programs that drive conversations around cultural diversity, inclusion, and belonging. Morgen’s journey began in advertising and brand strategy, where she worked across agency and client-side roles, developing a deep understanding of stakeholder engagement and business leadership. Her passion for people, community-building, and national identity led her to Australia Day Council WA, where she now champions thought leadership in diversity, inclusion, and civic participation.

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

Pearl Proud was born in Durban, South Africa, and migrated to Australia in 1987. A Zulu Traditional Healer with a background in Psychology, Governance, DEI, and Multiculturalism, Pearl has served in Chair and Director board roles, shaping organisations' strategic and diversity evolution across the Arts, Health, Mental Health, and Higher Education sectors. Her leadership has fostered culturally informed service delivery and inclusive access across multiple industries. A passionate advocate for diversity in the Arts, Pearl has been Patron for the Perth Arts Festival, including its 50th Anniversary Perth Festival, and the Founding Patron for the Perth Writers Festival. She is also a Medici Donor and recipient of the Living Legend Award 2012 for her civic and philanthropic contributions. Pearl believes Australia is a space for ‘re-congregation’, where diverse perspectives can unite for universal dialogue and advancement.

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

As a founder of the Professional Women Migrant Network, Sobia brings a wealth of expertise in public advocacy for asylum seekers, migrants and refugee women's rights. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and responsible decision-making, she has dedicated her career to ensuring that businesses and communities thrive together. Her leadership extends beyond risk management—she is a champion for empowering women, fostering diverse leadership, and advocating for systemic change that creates long-term impact.

Panel Discussion 01: Empowering Voices: Diverse Women Shaping Australia's Future

Sisonke Msimang is a passionate advocate for challenging racism, sexism, and inequality through the power of storytelling and strategic dialogue. As the Head of Storytelling at the Centre for Stories, she leads efforts to amplify diverse voices and create inclusive narratives. With a focus on empowering individuals, Sisonke trains storytellers and public speakers, helping them effectively share their experiences and perspectives. Her work fosters empathy, understanding, and drives meaningful conversations around equality and inclusion. Sisonke's leadership and facilitation inspire action and contribute to systemic change, using storytelling as a powerful tool for social transformation and justice.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

As a respected executive leader in the mining industry, Florence coordinates multi-stakeholder relations to deliver place-based solutions that honour cultural, environmental, and economic priorities. Her work helps member companies unlock value across the global value chain through an inclusive and sustainable approach—ensuring prosperity for all stakeholders and future generations. Beyond mining, Florence is also the founder and owner of Mitu Wines, a brand built on connection, celebration, and the spirit of togetherness. The name "Mitu" means "me and you" in Torres Strait Islander Creole, reflecting her deep values of community and shared experiences.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

Intan is a biomedical engineer and entrepreneur specialising in the development of medical devices. She completed her PhD at Curtin University, where she developed a novel expandable orthopaedic screw, leading to the spin-out company REX Ortho, where she serves as Chief Scientific Officer. Intan is also the co-founder and CEO of EarFlo, a company focused on a non-invasive device to treat chronic ear infections in children. Her companies have earned multiple accolades, including the 2023 WA Innovator of the Year and the 2024 INCITE Start-up of the Year. She also teaches future medtech entrepreneurs at Perth Biodesign and the University of Western Australia.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

Lan's journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of diverse voices, from rebuilding her life as a former refugee to driving digital transformation in Mining, Oil & Gas, and Defence as the Chief Relationship Officer at EXTAG. With over 25 years in sales and marketing and a background in communication and anthropology, she champions technology that serves people and creates inclusive growth. Lan is also the founder of "The Magnificent," a dynamic community fostering collaboration among change-makers, founders, and lifelong learners. She believes that diverse women entrepreneurs have the power to shape industries, influence policies, and create lasting impact—and she’s here to share how.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

With over 20 years of experience in stakeholder relations, partnerships, and communications, Liz has made a profound impact across the corporate, not-for-profit, and tertiary education sectors. Currently, she plays a pivotal role at CERI (Centre for Entrepreneurial Research and Innovation), a social enterprise dedicated to empowering Western Australia’s next generation of entrepreneurs. CERI is committed to helping researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life, turning groundbreaking research and bold visions into impactful startups. With a suite of programs designed to educate, mentor, and equip innovators with essential tools, office space, and grants, CERI is enabling entrepreneurs to tackle climate, energy, health, food, and water challenges head-on. Liz’s passion for accessible education and inclusive innovation is at the core of her work, ensuring that Western Australia’s brightest minds have the resources and networks to succeed.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

Mehwish Nasim is a leading researcher in network analysis and social influence modelling. As the head of the Network Analysis & Social Influence Modelling (NASIM) lab at The University of Western Australia, she is shaping the future of social network understanding. With a PhD from the University of Konstanz, part of Germany's Universities of Excellence group, Mehwish brings extensive expertise to her role as a senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering. Her research delves into the complexities of social networks, offering valuable insights on information diffusion and harnessing social influence for positive change.

Panel Discussion 02: Empowering Futures: Diverse Women at the Forefront of Industry Transformation

Paula Rogers is the CEO of the Committee for Perth, where she plays a key role in shaping economic growth, policy reform, and leadership diversity in Western Australia. With extensive experience in media, corporate leadership, and economic policy, Paula has held senior roles, including State Director of CEDA and Managing Director. She is well-connected across public, private, and community sectors, having served on various boards, including North Metropolitan Health Service and Edith Cowan College. Paula is also the founder of Paula Rogers Consulting, where she helps businesses and organisations develop stakeholder engagement strategies and drive meaningful change.