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Welcome to our 2024 Careers Breakfast
‘Take the Next Step’
The Careers Breakfast is open to students in Years 10, 11 and 12.
Over the course of the morning, an amazing group of 24 alumnae speakers will present their career journeys around tables in the Hall.
This is a wonderful opportunity for you, our current students, to really reflect on your own career interests and options by listening and talking to experienced and successful professionals in different career fields.
We are incredibly fortunate to have so many wonderful and exemplary alumnae who are keen to come back to Sacré Cœur and mentor the next generation of Sacré Cœur students.
The career interest areas will include; Arts, Business, Design, Engineering, Environment, Health, Law, Media/Communication, Medicine, Psychology and Science.
We hope you find the morning inspirational, informative and highly valuable.
Date/Time
Thursday 23 May 2024 7.15am–8.45am
Bookings via TryBooking
Over the course of the morning, you will have the opportunity to attend three table conversations.
Please refer to the speaker biographies on the following pages to help you choose your three table conversations.
Bookings can be made via TryBooking from Thursday 16 May at 8.25am until Sunday 19 May at 11.59pm.
BOOK HERE
Event Running Schedule
7.15am Arrival
Students collect breakfast and go to their first table.
7.25am Welcome and Acknowledgement of Country.
7.30–7.45am First overview/conversation
Each speaker gives an overview of their ‘career’ to date. Conversation to follow with the students on the table.
7.45–7.50am Break/Change over. Students choose another table to join. Speakers repeat the overview.
7.50–8.05am Second overview/conversation
Each speaker gives an overview of their ‘career’ to date. Conversation to follow with the students at the table.
8.05–8.10am Break/Change over. Students choose another table to join. Speakers repeat the overview.
8.10–8.25am Third overview/conversation
Each speaker gives an overview of their ‘career’ to date. Conversation to follow with the students on the table.
8.30 - 8.45am Take home messages and thank yous
Take e next step!
Arts
Name of Speaker
Sophie Vale YearClass of 2010
Job Title
Head of Emergency Management
Communications
Place of work
Victorian Department of Families, Fairness & Housing
After graduating from Sacré Cœur in 2010, I did an Arts degree at the University of Melbourne and then in 2014 went straight into a Masters of Publishing and Communications (also at UoM).
After graduating from my Masters, I moved to London in 2016 and worked in various office jobs before getting a communications role at Transport for London.
I moved back to Melbourne at the end of 2018 and started a new job working in communications for the Department of Justice and Community Safety. This started my career in the Victorian Government! I got a permanent role there and was promoted, and then in 2020 moved to the Department of Education, where I worked on COVID comms for schools.
In 2021, I moved to a more senior role at the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing in Emergency Communications and have worked to support communities through floods, storms and bushfires.
Link to Sophie’s Resume
Business
Name of Speaker
Alexandra McGonigal
Year
Class of 2011
Job Title
Merchandise Planner
Place of work
Hugo Boss
I’m currently a Merchandise Planner at Hugo Boss.
I am responsible for the outlet channel across the SEAPAC region which includes Australia, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
I studied Fashion and Textile Merchandising at RMIT & went on to complete my Masters in Entrepreneurship also at RMIT.
I have worked for various retailers before Hugo Boss including Nike, Accent Group and Sportsgirl.
Outside of work I enjoy spending quality time with my friends enjoying Melbourne’s restaurants/ bars.
Link to Alexandra’s Resume
Business
Name of Speaker
Chelsea LucarelliYear
Class of 2018
Job Title
Marketing
Place of work
Country Road
I’m currently working as a CRM & Loyalty Specialist for Country Road Group, assisting to manage and optimise the loyalty programs for each of the brands (Country Road, Trenery, Witchery, Mimco & Politix).
Prior to this, I worked across both the Marketing and Digital Teams for Witchery and Mimco, and also completed an internship at L’Oreal Australia.
I completed a double degree at Monash University in Banking and Finance & Marketing, whilst working Customer Service and GSV coaching roles. I have been fortunate enough to try many different areas, but have most enjoyed working on strategy related projects.
Link to Chelsea’s Resume
Design
Name of Speaker
Gabriella AlfanoYear
Class of 2016
Job Title
Graduate of Architecture
Place of work
Silver Thomas Hanley
I’m currently working as a Graduate of Architecture at Silver Thomas Hanley (STH).
STH specialises in healthcare and is responsible for many of Australia’s leading public and private hospitals. I work closely with the firm’s directors to document drawings, consult with clients, and coordinate with consultants.
I have a Bachelor of Arts (History and Media & Communications major) from Melbourne University. During this degree, I discovered my interest in Architecture. Therefore, after completing the degree, I utilised university pathways to transition into the 3-Year Master of Architecture program at Monash University where I undertook an intensive year of study before joining the regular Master’s program. During my course, I travelled overseas to Monash’s Prato campus to study Italy’s rich history of Industrial Architecture.
I also began my journey at STH as a student of Architecture to gain work experience before graduation. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my friends, going to local exhibitions, and going to concerts.
Link to Gabriela’s Resume
Design
Name of Speaker
Isobel Parkes
Year
Class of 2012
Job Title
Art Director
Place of work
Crown Resorts
After completing a Bachelor of Communication Design followed by a Masters of Business & Marketing, I worked independently as a graphic designer for 6 years. Whilst running my own design business, I was a full-time contractor with Crown Hotels (graphic designer). I am now Art Director for Crown Resorts working alongside a wonderful creative team of designers, our Creative Lead and Head of Creative Services. I am responsible for brand execution and direction for all Crown Hotels Australia-wide, restaurants & bars, retail, and other major campaigns and partnerships.
Currently, a large portion of my portfolio consists of planning and executing photoshoots for both the Crown brand and the many sub-brands, for example new restaurants, campaigns, internal imagery etc. where I get to work alongside leading international photographers and creatives to bring our vision to life and update the overarching brand identity.
Link to Isobel’s Resume
Engineering
Name of Speaker
Sarah Blackman
Year
Class of 2017
Job Title
Biomedical Engineer
Place of work
Seer
I studied a Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Biomedical Engineering with Business.
I started working casually at Seer during my undergraduate degree and was hired full time after I graduated.
I now work in Supply Chain and Logistics which was not where I thought my career would go, but I love what I currently do now. I work closely with manufacturing teams, our customers and suppliers. I enjoy knowing that what I am doing is making a difference in patients across the country, and in the US.
My job has allowed me to work with people across the globe and I have met some truly inspiring people. Outside of work I like playing sports and music, much like I did at school, and relaxing at home.
Link to Sarah’s Resume
Environment
Name of Speaker
Ruth CockertonYear
Class of 2006
Job Title
Executive Officer -
Victorian Marine and Coastal Council
Place of work
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
I am a senior public servant working as an executive in the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action. I’m an environmental professional committed to making a real difference through a range of intersecting disciplines (climate action, business, public policy and First Nations advancement).
I’ve studied at the University of Melbourne, Monash University and Griffith University in the areas of waterway and coastal management, business management, language and sustainability. I am known for leading high-performing teams to find innovative ways to achieve meaningful outcomes with both large investment envelopes and limited funding.
In addition to being Executive Officer of the Victorian Marine and Coastal Council, I am also primary parent (or Chief Toddler Officer) to my three-year old daughter, Lucy. At school, I felt pulled between every possible discipline (I did Physics, Drama, French, Literature, Business Management and Maths) and my career path has allowed me to navigate a range of meaningful experiences that has embraced this mix!
Health
Name of Speaker
Kiara Botter
Year
Class of 2019
Job Title
Registered Nurse
Place of work
Alfred Hospital
Link to Ruth’s Resume
I’m currently working as a Registered Nurse on a Neurosurgery ward at the Alfred hospital. I work amongst a team of Nurses, Doctors and Allied health professionals, providing care for patients who have had brain and spinal injuries in a high intensity acute environment.
I previously studied a Bachelor of Nursing at Deakin University where I was able to attend multiple placements at different hospitals and wards, gaining experience and guidance for where I want my career to go.
After graduating university, I began my Graduate Nurse Program with Alfred health where I worked on a Short Stay Surgical ward for six months and have rotated into the role I am in now for another six months.
Link to Kiara’s Resume
Name of Speaker
Elisa PanozzoYear
Class of 2014
Job Title
Program Officer
- Primary Care Commissioning
Place of work
North Western
Melbourne Primary Health Network
HealthName of Speaker
Sarah Duldig
Year
Class of 2012
Job Title
Osteopath
Place of work
Carlton Football Club and Equilibrium Sports and Spinal Clinic
I’m currently working as Program Support Officer at North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN)
My main role is to support the Primary Priority Care Centres (PPCC) in our region. Additionally, I support our Statewide lead to coordinate the PPCC program across the state, closely collaborating with other Primary Health Networks.
I play a crucial role within a larger team dedicated to strengthening primary care, actively engaging with diverse external stakeholders including Primary Priority Care Centres, the Department of Health, Ambulance Victoria, and hospitals.
My academic background includes a Bachelor of Health Science and a Graduate Diploma of Health Promotion from Deakin University, in addition to several certifications. After completing my initial degree, I took a break from work and travelled, also visiting my parents who had relocated overseas. This pause provided me with the opportunity to plan my next career steps.
Beyond work, I enjoy spending time with friends, attending festivals, exploring Melbourne’s bar and food scene.
Link to Elisa’s Resume
I currently work as an Osteopath in a private practice in Glen Iris, Equilibrium Sports and Spinal Clinic.
After graduating high school I studied Health Science (Majors in Exercise Science & Sport Coaching) at Deakin University, with the plan of working as a Clinical Exercise Scientist. Unfortunately this wasn’t the career path for me, however I knew I still wanted to work in sport or healthcare.
After graduating I decided to take some time off work & study to travel for 3 months around Europe, before heading back to university to complete a double degree in Health Science & Applied Science (Osteopathy) at RMIT University - this was the best decision I made! I now work in a private practice treating & managing different patients & their conditions every day.
Link to Sarah’s Resume
Health
Health
Name of Speaker
Phoebe PapoutsidisYear
Class of 2016
Job Title
Occupational Therapist
Place of work
Western Health
I’m currently working as a grade 2 Occupational Therapist at Western Health. I’m based at Footscray Hospital working in the acute service specialising in general medicine, endocrinology, nephrology and neurosurgery. I work closely with patients to increase their independence in their daily activities to support a sustainable discharge home from hospital.
I studied a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Occupational Therapy practice at La Trobe University directly after completing school. After graduating from university I jumped straight into the workforce as it was the height of Covid and travel was not on the cards! I took a break from work last year and spent 6 months travelling throughout Europe. I returned back to full time work December last year and am loving settling into my new role focusing on supervising junior staff and facilitating university student placements.
Name of Speaker
Brigitte KourasanisYear
Class of 2014
Job Title
Senior Analyst -
Financial Crime
Intelligence
Place of work
Macquarie
I’m currently a Senior Analyst within the Financial Crime Intelligence team of a major retail bank, where I provide oversight of financial crime risks and controls for the Senior Leadership team and lead product, channel and business unit risk assessments. I studied a Bachelor of Laws at ACU, and since then I have been admitted as a Lawyer and obtained my ‘Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist’ qualification.
I didn’t always know that I wanted to get into this field, but by accepting opportunities as they have appeared, I have been pleasantly surprised with my career journey to-date. Outside of work, I love photography, going for hikes, trying out an extensive list of Melbourne’s cafes, and playing netball.
Link to Brigitte’s Resume
Law
Law
Name of Speaker
Asher Chatterton
Year
Class of 2015
Job Title
Solicitor
Place of work
Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH)
I am a solicitor at the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), in the Child Protection Litigation Office. I am part of a team of solicitors who advise and act for Child Protection in Children’s Court proceedings.
My role involves appearing in court, negotiating and advocating to resolve matters in the best interests of children. I studied Law at Monash University and took a lot of interest in the ways the legal system impacts on families, children and vulnerable people, leading me to volunteer in the family court and at a community legal centre while at uni.
I then worked as a family lawyer before I moved to the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH).
Outside of work I am a competitive powerlifter and I spend most of my free time training, or trying out new restaurants and going to art exhibitions.
Link to Asher’s Resume
Name of Speaker
Madeleine Hale
Year
Class of 2010
Job Title
PhD Student at Deakin
Law School and Law
Lecturer at Monash University,
Place of work
Monash University
I am currently a Law Lecturer at Monash University, and a final year Law PhD student at Deakin Law School.
In my PhD, I’m looking at free speech, democracy and social media. My work days are often split between researching, writing, and teaching law students. Prior to starting my career in academia, I was a lawyer at a corporate law firm called Herbert Smith Freehills.
I also worked in the performing arts space as a film producer, composer and director, and in social media at Network Ten’s The Project.
I studied Arts/Law at Monash University. During my degree, I studied abroad in France and Italy and I also volunteered as a Paralegal at Refugee Legal, which provides legal assistance to disadvantaged migrants and refugees seeking asylum in Australia.
Link to Madeleine’s Resume
Law
Law
Name of Speaker
Hayley McDermottYear
Class of 2013
Job Title
Lawyer
Place of work
Victoria Police
I am currently employed by Victoria Police as a Supervising Lawyer in the Specialist Sex Offence Prosecution Unit. My role is to prosecute criminal matters that involve victims of sexual offences who are children or have a cognitive impairment. I work alongside a hybrid team of lawyers and police across the entire state.
After I finished school, I studied a double degree of Law/ International Studies. During this time I travelled to Jordan and Qatar for a unit, and undertook a number of internships in the legal industry.
Outside of work, I love to travel and eat at different restaurants with friends.
Link to Hayley’s Resume
Media and Communications
Name of Speaker
Claudia ScolloYear
Class of 2018
Job Title
Creative Producer
Place of work
(Netflix ANZ) at Snack
Drawer
I’m currently working at Snack Drawer. Whilst the agency has a range of clients, I work within an internal team for Netflix ANZ.
My job is to make things happen – whether that be making sure daily content is delivered, managing press junkets with talent, or anything else in between.
I studied Communications (Public Relations) at RMIT. Despite COVID consuming a large portion of this time, my goal was to do as many internships as possible to gain networks, experience and figure out what part of communications was for me.
After working in talent management, PR and a stint in England at a boarding school, I came home to find out that my passion for film/tv, working with people and organisational skills could actually be turned into a career –which is how I found and fell in love with producing!
Link to Claudia’s Resume
Media and Communications
Name of Speaker
Kiera Eardley
Year
Class of 2016
Job Title
Marketing Manager / Copywriter
Place of work
Social Garden
Media and Journalism
Name of Speaker
Anna Pavlou
Year
Class of 2019
Job Title
Sports Journalist
Place of work
Channel 9, WWOS
I’m currently working as a copywriter at Social Garden, a digital performance marketing agency.
Here, I’m part of the creative content team, and get to liaise with clients, senior stakeholders in the business, and nearly all producers (designers, social media managers, campaign managers) in the company — it’s a really rewarding, collaborative space!
I took a long-winding path at uni (including a short course in Italy!) to end up with double degrees in Marketing and Arts (media & communications) and a concurrent diploma in French, but I can thank hands-on internships and overseas travel for giving me the right experience to get where I am today.
My life outside of work is a lot of time spent around Melbourne with friends, family, my beautiful dog, and whatever new book I can get my hands on — some things don’t change!
Link to Kiera’s Resume
I’m currently working for Channel 9 in their digital team as a Sports Journalist.
I am the head of AFL down in Melbourne, with my team based in Sydney. I get to follow footy teams all around the country, interview players, attend events and even work with talent on Nine’s footy shows.
Before that, I was 1116 SEN’s National Morning News Reader for two years. It included 4am wake ups every day, but I loved being able to hone my craft on live air and make some lifelong mentors and friends.
I also worked at Cricket Australia as an Editorial Assistant. Before that, I completed a long list of sports media internships that date all the way back to when I was just 15 years old.
I went to La Trobe University and studied a Bachelor of Media and Communications, majoring in Sports Journalism and Journalism.
Link to Anna’s Resume
Medicine
Name of Speaker
Georgia CarrazzoYear
Class of 2017
Job Title
Studying Medicine
Place of Study
University of Melbourne
Doctor of Medicine
MD(2023 - 2026)
I am currently a medical student at the University of Melbourne, completing a Doctor of Medicine.
Prior to this, I completed a Bachelor of Biomedicine and an Honours year which focused on quality of life for people with diabetes. I also commenced a Master of Public Health, which I have paused to pursue medicine, but intend to finish at a later date.
It has always been my dream to be a doctor and it certainly took a lot of hard work to get there. I took a slightly longer pathway to than some of my peers, but I enjoyed every step of the journey.
As a medical student, I get to spend every day in the hospital, shadowing doctors and getting involved in patient care.
I also work part time as an accountant for an insurance company.
In my spare time, I love to cook, spend time with friends, go on road trips and try out new restaurants.
Link to Georgia’s Resume
Medicine
Name of Speaker
Chloe MackenzieYear
Class of 2015
Job Title
Doctor: Paediatric
Registrar
Place of work
Royal Children’s
Hospital
I work at the Royal Children’s Hospital as a Paediatric Resident. I rotate between different teams throughout the year and am currently in the respiratory team.
I completed a Bachelor of Medicine interstate at the University of New England/University of Newcastle. I completed the first 3 years in Armidale, a regional town in NSW, before moving to Newcastle for the final two years at John Hunter Hospital.
I also completed overseas placements in India and Nepal as part of my training. I fell in love with the coastal city of Newcastle and stayed there for two years as a doctor, before moving to Orange NSW where I worked as a junior paediatric doctor then had some time off to travel.
Science Psychology
Name of Speaker
Mia ConnorsYear
Class of 2018
Job Title
Provisional
psychologist studying a Master of Clinical Psychology
Place of work/ study
RMIT University and various health clinics
I am currently a provisional psychologist studying a Master of Clinical Psychology at RMIT University.
I am completing coursework, a research project, and I see clients at our Health Clinic to help them with their mental health problems (such as anxiety and depression).
I did a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Monash University prior to my masters degree.
Between these courses, I took a year off to travel and gain some experience in the psychology field.
After my two year course is completed, I am hoping to be employed by one of the clinics I do my placement at, and am also eager to work in private practice at some point.
I love working with all kinds of people, and have been interested in psychology ever since I studied it in high school. I’m really excited for my future as a Clinical Psychologist!
Link to Mia’s Resume
Name of Speaker
Laura HoganYear
Class of 2017
Job Title
Speech Pathologist
Place of work
Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools
I studied a Bachelor of Science at Monash University followed by a Masters of Speech Pathology at the University of Melbourne.
Throughout my Masters degree, I did placements in various settings including hospitals, private practice and schools. I graduated from my Masters at the end of 2022.
In 2023, I worked as a Speech Pathologist in the disability sector (NDIS) as well as taking some time off to travel.
In December 2023, I started my current position as a Speech Pathologist at Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools.
In this role, I assess children with oral language concerns, provide assessment result feedback to parents and the school, complete consultations with teachers and run professional development, in Catholic schools across Melbourne.
Outside of work, I love travelling, walking my dog, doing pilates and trying new cafes and restaurants with family and friends.
Link to Laura’s Resume
Science
Name of Speaker
Allison RiskaYear
Class of 2015
Job Title
Associate Product
Manager and Product Specialist
Place of work
Paragon Care: Surgical specialties
Following my graduation from SAC, I found myself standing at a crossroads, uncertain of my career direction. However, one thing was clear: my passion for healthcare. This led me to pursue a degree in Pharmacy at RMIT University, where I later specialized in IVF medicine. I later transitioned into the field of medical devices, assuming the role of Product Specialist. In this capacity, I support surgeons in the effective utilization of our products, primarily in Orthopaedic Surgeries. Additionally, I lead a team of 8 professionals spanning across Australia and New Zealand.
Seeking to further expand, I am currently in the process of acquiring my Master’s in Business Management from Monash University. This decision was driven by my desire to merge my healthcare expertise with a solid foundation in business principles. Despite the demanding nature of balancing work and studies, I remain dedicated to my role as a Pharmacist part-time.
Link to Allison’s Resume
Science
Name of Speaker
Natalie PataneYear
Class of 2016
Job Title
Master of Public Health
Place of study
Monash University
I am currently pursuing a masters degree in Public Health at Monash University. Presently, I am completing my degree with a specialisation in epidemiology, with ancillary studies in health promotion, biostatistics, and global health.
Since completing a Bachelor of Science with a major in immunology at the University of Melbourne, I have cultivated an interest in the pathology, prevention, and control of infectious diseases. Throughout my undergraduate I attained knowledge of the biological processes of human disease pathology and immunity (with a particular focus on virology), and acquired relevant laboratory skills in biomedical and molecular science.
Link to Natalie’s Resume
Thank You!
Ms Pauline Steedman, Careers Counsellor, and the Community Relations Office staff, would like to thank everyone who participated in our Careers Breakfast, in particular, our wonderful alumnae speakers for their participation and presentations.
Thank you for being so willing to return and mentor the next generation of Sacré Cœur women.
Our thanks to all the students for their participation in this event. We hope the stories, information and details shared by our alumnae speakers, will inspire you to reflect on where you are heading with your own career journeys and encourage you to make ‘the next right move’ or ‘take the next step’ to get you to where you want to go one step at a time.
Finally, thanks to our Sacré Cœur Leadership Team and staff for your support. We have an amazing school community who continually show up to offer their expertise and help in so many ways. Our Cor Unum spirit shines brightly.
Ms Pauline Steedman Careers Counsellor
Take e next step! Click here for more information