Responsible media Megan Argyrio
Leading the legal sector Melanie Szydzik
Publishing Jane Farago
Positive architecture Russell Hughes
Background: “I was previously working for Film Victoria where I developed an industry strategy to ‘green’ the Victorian screen production sector. I am passionate about sustainability but wanted additional skills to bring about widespread change.”
Background: “I am Senior Associate to a Judge at the Supreme Court of Victoria and was keen to add to and build upon my skills and experiences in the sustainability space.”
Background: “I have enjoyed a career in book publishing and community information and for the last couple of years I have been looking after my small children. I am also halfway through an MBA with the Australian Graduate School of Management.”
Background: “ I am a sessional lecturer and PhD candidate in the school of Architecture and Design at RMIT University. I have been involved in various sustainablity related projects, in particular working with visionary US architects Arakawa and Gins.’
Best part of the program? “The sessions with “Uncle Jase” have been awesome.” (Jason Clarke, of Minds At Work, is one of the most sought after creative minds in the country and is a regular guest speaker.) What change do you hope to create? “Given the media’s widespread influence in shaping public opinion and behaviours, I am targeting the media industry as it is critical to engage the media in addressing the environmental and social challenges we’re facing.”
Best part of the program? “The connections formed with other Fellows, previous participants, trainers, presenters and my mentor have been invaluable to me both in a professional and personal capacity. Through these connections – and the opportunity for collaboration and consultation – I have been able to be more ambitious with the projects I am working on and to progress them more rapidly.” What change do you hope to create? “I would like to enhance the sustainability of the legal sector in Victoria through the establishment of a voluntary and principles-based sustainability initiative to which legal firms can subscribe.”
Best part of the program? “The luxury of hours of exposure to the brilliant teaching of Jason Clarke from Minds at Work, together with a host of other committed, diverse and inspiring leaders from the field of sustainability and beyond. The stimulation, enthusiasm and energy of my fellow students. The extremely practical – and challenging – media training. The opportunity to really get your teeth stuck into the complex and challenging issues of sustainability.” What change do you hope to create? “The course has created a profound change in my understanding of the world we live in and the way we live. I hope that I can help Australia to play its role in mitigating climate change. Above all, I would like to open other people’s eyes to sustainability the way my eyes have been opened this year.”
Best part of the program? “ I found the high calibre of the guest speakers on the course both enrichening, encouraging and inspiring. Also the mentorship program has been invaluable, opening doors that otherwise would have remained closed. The opportunity to network with likeminded sustainability leaders was also of great benefit to my endeavors.” What change do you hope to create? “ As a result of the program I have been involved in projects that have broadened my professional horizons, and opened my eyes to the opportunities, challenges (and pitfalls) of being a sustainability leader.”
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