Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?

The opening of the first playground that I designed as a Landscape Designer. Seeing the shared space enjoyed by the community was heart warming. The giggles of the children, the apparent relief of the parents (knowing their children were able to enjoy the space safely), and the pride of the veterans with the newly dedicated space for their local hero. These being meaning and motivation to me as a place-maker. It always comes down to how people experience place.

Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?

1. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. Her dedication to environmental responsibility and speaking up about it in the most relatable of ways. We only get one planet, we have to work together to care for it (and we can write songs and make jokes while we do).
2. Chrystal Evans Hurst. My favourite quote of hers is “Every day is day one”. As long as we’re alive we’re able to make our mark intentionally – one decision, one step at a time.

What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?

We should be working collaboratively within and between industries to tackle issues of climate resilience, housing affordability and houselessness, and looking to equip the next generation of professionals.

Tell us how you champion others in the industry.

I encourage people to volunteer. While your expertise will be of great value, the real value is what you learn about yourself and gain from others that you work with.

What is your secret talent no one knows you have?

I learned classical piano and passed the Grade 7 ABRSM (Royal School of Music) exams.

What is the best word to describe you? And Why?

Teachable. That’s how I thrive, understanding how others view the world and challenging my own views