While studying for your BA, you were involved in Entré, UC’s Entrepreneurial Student Club. Is this where your interest in entrepreneurship began?
Yes, I'd say that’s when the spark was ignited! My mum has run a kids’ retail store for 24 years, but I never saw it as entrepreneurship as a kid. In my first year at uni, I saw a poster for the “$85k Startup Competition” and decided to share my idea on a UC Facebook page to try and recruit team members. Three girls responded, we formed a team and made it through the first round. It was a lot of fun - and from there, my interest and involvement in entrepreneurship really took off.
What were some other highlights from your time at UC?
Realising how enjoyable studying can be when you're passionate about the subject. I initially chose Media and Communications as my focus, with Psychology as a secondary interest - but after the first semester, I found myself drawn to Psychology and its potential to help people. I’d often “procrastinate” by reading psych books! I also loved getting involved in extra-curriculars, including the Student Volunteer Army and interning with TEAR Fund NZ, where I helped raise awareness and funds to combat human trafficking.
Since leaving UC, you’ve worked as a Project and Program Coordinator for a number of, what we imagine, quite rewarding programs. What have been some of your career highlights to date?
One standout highlight was my 2023 trip to Israel with the Kelly & Partners Israel Scholars Program. Alongside a UNSW colleague, I supported a group of driven high school students as we explored Israel’s rich culture, history, and innovation. We visited startups, cultural landmarks, and unique experiences like the BlackOut complex, which simulates blindness to heighten sensory awareness. I have also enjoyed hosting the bi-annual New Wave Pitch Showcase, where top teams pitch their ideas live for a chance to win cash to continue building their ventures.
Now working as a Program Manager in the UNSW Founders team, can you tell us a little about , and what this program aims to do?
UNSW Founders New Wave program empowers women to build entrepreneurial skills and confidence and launch women-led businesses. Our startups feature female founders at twice the industry average. New Wave made this possible! We provide UNSW students, staff and alumni who identify as women, at the earlier stages of their entrepreneurial journey, access to skill-building workshops, startup coaches, and industry-leading mentors. Our overarching mission is to bridge the gap in entrepreneurship for women.
Why do you believe entrepreneurship is important?
Entrepreneurship is the key to making change happen. When someone sees a problem, and instead of complaining about it or accepting that it’s “just the way it is”, they get curious and are motivated to do something about it – this is where impact is made. Entrepreneurship opens doors, innovates and finds a way around archaic systems that no longer work, and pushes industries forward.
What advice would you give to a new graduate looking to take their ideas or business model out into the world?
Innovation thrives on diverse skills, talent, and perspectives, and gender diversity is key to accelerating the world’s pace of innovation. In saying that – whilst being a founder may not be for everyone - entrepreneurship can be. Regardless of gender, background, or experience - your unique perspective is your greatest asset.
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