About Me
Embarking on a career is an adventure, often filled with unexpected twists and turns, and my professional journey is no exception. Throughout my career, I've gained a wealth of experience that has strengthened my resilience and certainly shaped my character. Within this e-portfolio, you'll discover my exciting new educational quest in Environmental Science and Economics. Rooted in a passion for environmental preservation, sustainable development, kindness, empathy, and a genuine concern for both people and the planet.
My goal is to channel these values into a role that leaves a positive imprint on our environment and society. Join me as I strive to do my best throughout this new academic chapter and make a meaningful impact in my future career.
“The final chapter is ours to write. We know what we need to do. What happens next is up to us.”
— David Attenborough
I began my undergraduate studies later in life, bringing a mature, focused mindset to complement my academic pursuits. But how did I get here? I am proud to have over 25 years of customer service experience, including 17 years in management, operations, administration, and human resources. Over the past nearly 15 years, my roles have involved accounts receivable and payable, budgeting, debt reduction and payroll. I even had a creative spell, running a bespoke cupcake and cake-decorating business called Just Peachy. You can read more about my professional history in my resume.
Before commencing university, my time as the office manager at a real estate company in Townsville gave me the opportunity for rapid growth and was incredibly formative. During this time, I was entrusted with various business managerial responsibilities that extended beyond standard office operations. I am particularly proud of navigating the business through tough times such as Townsville's 2019 floods and the 2020 COVID pandemic. I was humbled to have the complete trust of the company's principal/director, Sally Elliott, to undertake many business management tasks, as evidenced by the testimonials available for your perusal. In fact, I still hold that position of trust with Sally and help manage her personal finances in her retirement. During my time as Office Manager at Smith and Elliott Real Estate, I really developed my skills in leadership, conflict resolution, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and working autonomously. In this position, I developed a strong interest in business finance and accountancy and a desire to further my professional development through tertiary education.
Moving to Brisbane in late February 2023, I commenced a Bachelor of Business with an extended Accounting Major at Griffith University. However, after just four weeks at university, through my first elective course, 1043SCG Introduction to Environmental Sustainability, it became abundantly clear that I wished to change my career path to combine my interests in business finance and management with my passion for environmental sustainability and protection. Hence, I changed my Major to Economics and commenced a second degree, a Bachelor of Environmental Science. On track for graduation in November 2026, this double degree will widen my career opportunities in environmental economics, environmental management and policy.
In Trimester three over the summer 2025-2026, I was fortunate to have an internship with The Moreton Bay Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation. This placement helped build practical experience in research, report writing, project management and community-focused environmental engagement. It has given me an incredible opportunity to integrate my previously gained administrative, customer service, and managerial skills with newly acquired academic skills. Showing how valuable tangible skills are and how they can be applied in many unique scenarios. This has been a real growth opportunity for me, and I am so grateful to the Moreton Bay Foundation for placing such trust in me to help plan and deliver their Moreton Bay Passport pilot.
Receiving a Griffith Award for Academic Excellence in 2023 and 2024, and being on track for this in 2025, as well as being invited into the Student Academy of Excellence for maintaining a high GPA above 6.5, have been so valuable. I take pride in being diligent, responsive to feedback, and willing to take on challenges and enjoy learning new tools and approaches, including GIS programs and fundamental economic analysis. Studying at Griffith University is rejuvenating, and building my knowledge (though challenging) is immensely rewarding and invigorating. I have an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement for the future (and some nerves). I am driven by a passion for creating meaningful change and am eager to contribute to a greener, more economically balanced future.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy gardening, being outdoors and taking my spoilt dog, a cheeky West Highland Terrier, for walks or to the beach for a swim.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and I look forward to connecting with you and hearing how your career journey has evolved.