Changemakers - Ryan Harvey

Ryan Harvey is the chief executive of Left Right Think-Tank. This week we profile Ryan in Changemakers – a regular column which examines inspiring people and their careers in the Not for Profit sector.

Left Right Think-Tank engages young people in education and policy-production programs to provide them the resources and the framework to create the vision for Australia’s future. It produces high impact policy, focused on the long-term, in wide consultation with young people, providing innovative solutions and recommendations to pressing problems in Australia.

What are you currently working on in your organisation?

Left Right's four State Teams work eight-months every year on developing evidence-based policy recommendations across our core policy areas. We're currently examining sustainable funding models for transport infrastructure reform in New South Wales, food productivity and food security in Victoria, developing e-government strategies and engagement tools in Queensland, and re-shifting education and skills-shortage paradigms in Western Australia. We're also working on a new, very top-secret project to get more young people interested in policy-making and change.

What drew you to the Not for Profit sector?

The freedom of pursuing the common good without being distracted by profit or reward.

What is the best thing about working in the Not for Profit sector?

Meeting people and being inspired constantly.

Favourite saying…

Emile Zola's "Allons travailler!"

What inspires you? Who inspires you?

The Late Christopher Hitchens for his hubris, chutzpah and unwavering moral compass.