Thought Provokers

Gheran Steel – Yarraman Ventures

As a purpose-driven Indigenous professional, Gheran uses proven innovation and design methods to create culturally smart opportunities for organisations who strive to become leaders in reconciliation. He believes in a future where First Peoples’ culture and heritage is not only valued and respected but integrated into our shared Australian way of life.

Gheran draws from 20 years of experience in business operations and people management in the commercial sectors and not-for-profit sector. He proudly served as the Chief Executive Officer of his community’s rep body, the Boon Wurrung Foundation Pty Ltd.

Lorraine Ngwenya – Useful Link

Lorraine is a passionate and driven around giving young people the keys to adulting. She completed her Bachelors in Public Health at La Trobe University, going on to studying a Masters in Community and International Development at Deakin.

She currently works as a Ylab Associate and founded her own organisation, Useful Link, three and a half years ago. Useful Link runs workshops in schools, speaking to thousands of students about the future of work and how they can get started now. They equip students with transferable skills by running workshops in a way that gives them a chance to work on real-life problems in their schools.

Caleb Connor – Shift

Shift provides training and tools to people, building a more just, equitable and sustainable society.

Caleb himself joined the team having explored the worlds of trade and diplomacy, social entrepreneurship and high-growth technology. He gets excited by the role of technology in supporting social change movements and providing pathways for people to participate more meaningfully in democracy.

Shani Cain – Oaktree

Shani Cain stepped into the CEO role of the Oaktree Foundation, Australia’s largest youth-led international development agency, in February 2019 and has since paved her way within the sector. She was elected to the Australian Council for International Development’s board as the youngest member in November and has recently been nominated within Pro Bonos Impact 25 Most Influential People in the Sector.

Previously Shani has worked within the Climate Movement, Refugee Settlement, Crisis Response and Research for organisations such as AYCC, the Red Cross and the Centre for Multicultural Youth. Shani seeks to lead with vulnerability, integrity and empathy. She openly shares her experiences living in regional Australia and as a survivor of domestic and sexual abuse.

Location

Public transport is the best way to reach the FYA Hub.

We are conveniently located close to the Bourke Street Mall stop on the 19/57/59 trams, or Elizabeth St/Bourke St 5 on the 86/96 trams.

The closest bus routes run along Lonsdale St – alight at the Elizabeth St stop.

Melbourne Central train station is 5 minutes walk away.

R&M acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which this event will be held, and pays their respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Accessibility

The session will be run on the second floor of the FYA Hub which is up a number of steps.

Please let us know either when you arrive, or beforehand, if you’d rather use the accessibility lift and we will arrange this. There are accessible amenities located on the ground floor of the building.

Please do not hesitate to contact Genevieve at genevieve@raineandmakin.com or on 03 9417 5397 should you have any further questions.