Looking back, what’s something special about your team that made your experience unforgettable?
What made my journey unforgettable was the collective energy of our team. Whether leading programmes, driving strategic priorities, or supporting operations, every person, including young leaders and youth, brought their unique strengths and lived experiences. Together, we turned challenges into learning opportunities and made progress toward our shared mission, which was both impactful and inspiring. What made this experience even more meaningful was our non-hierarchical culture, where every voice mattered and leadership was practiced at all levels. Anchored in integrity, voice, and inclusion, our values guided not only how we worked but also how we showed up for each other. This value-driven approach created a truly cohesive and empowered team, making the journey as important as the results.
Can you recall a moment during your time at Restless Development when your actions or decisions made a meaningful impact?
One of the most defining moments of my time at Restless Development was leading a programme design with a deliberate focus on inclusion. I engaged young people, communities, and local government leaders in a meaningful co-design process that empowered young people to shape the very solutions to the challenges they face. This approach led to the creation of a holistic, youth-led programme that was not only relevant and sustainable but also addressed both the demand and supply sides, ensuring young people had access to services as well as the power, voice, and platform to lead change in their communities. By aligning with existing local structures and fostering community ownership, this programme was able to deliver, inform, and influence, embodying Restless Development’s Model for Change and helping to shift the narrative from young people as passive recipients to leaders and agents of lasting change.
Which of the Restless values has stayed with you the most, and how do you find yourself living it even now?
Voice value has stayed with me most deeply because it embodies Restless Development’s commitment to honesty, transparency, and using our voice for what is right. By amplifying young people’s voices, we create opportunities for young leaders to learn, practice, and embody the qualities needed to lead transformational change in their communities. I live this value by supporting and mentoring young people and young staff, fostering spaces where they confidently speak up, lead, and address critical issues affecting them, such as reproductive health, poverty, unemployment, and civic participation. For me, living Voice means sharing power, uplifting youth leadership, and nurturing change-makers who are shaping better futures for themselves and their communities.
What’s one challenge you’ve taken on to grow personally or professionally?
I have learnt never to settle into a comfort zone. At Restless Development, where learning, integrity, and Youth Power guide everything we do, I have come to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. I have stretched beyond job titles, stepped into unfamiliar tasks and assignments, and remained open to learning from everyone around me, whether young leaders, peers, or senior staff members. I actively pursue learning through study, mentorship, and hands-on experience; however, it’s the day-to-day challenges and reflections that have shaped me the most. One principle I live by is never delegate what I haven’t taken time to understand. It keeps me accountable and grounded in the realities of our work. Growth, for me, is a continuous journey, rooted in humility, curiosity, and the belief that leadership is shared, and everyone has something to offer.
You played a big role in fostering collaboration. What’s a moment where you saw teamwork truly make a difference?
During our annual planning process, I helped to facilitate a hub-wide, inclusive approach where every unit, programme, operation, finance and administration, MEL, and beyond contributed to the planning process based on their priorities and vision. This was not just about developing a quality hub plan; it was about co-creating a shared direction. The result was a high-impact, relevant roadmap grounded in the lived realities of our teams, and it fostered a strong sense of ownership and accountability across the hub. This approach mirrored how we deliver our youth-led programming: not doing things for people, but with them. By embracing collective thinking and intentionally creating space for every voice, we built something not only strategic and aligned but also sustainable, meaningful, and rooted in the values of youth power, inclusion, and collaboration.
What’s a project or hobby you’re passionate about that brings you joy?
I am deeply passionate about coaching and mentoring young people to become confident, values-driven leaders. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing a young person thrive and knowing their journey was shaped, in part, by the support and space I helped to create. Some of my proudest moments come from hearing stories of impact that trace back to the work we have done through Restless Development. I believe in building young leaders who go further than I ever could, and in creating platforms where young people are seen, heard, and supported to lead with purpose and power.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a hectic day?
My go-to ways to unwind include reading books, watching political series, and listening to life stories, powerful journeys shared by young people about overcoming adversity. These voices keep me grounded in the realities we strive to change and remind me of the incredible strength and resilience within our communities. I also enjoy listening to classical music and country music, which bring me joy and help me relax.
Can you share a memorable interaction or activity at Restless Development that brightened your mood during a tough week?
During tough weeks at Restless Development, what consistently brightens my mood are our Quarterly Staff Workshops (QSWs). These are not just routine check-ins—they are celebrations of our collective journey. We come together to reflect on our progress, play games, laugh, support one another, and exchange personal stories. Amid deadlines and challenges, these moments remind me that we are human and that we thrive when we stay connected and nurture our communities.
Who or what inspires you the most when it comes to building positive relationships, both at work and in your personal life?
Young people inspire me every day. Their courage, creativity, and determination to challenge the status quo shape how I show up, with empathy, honesty, and genuine respect. They remind me to be authentic and to lead with humility, always listening and learning alongside them.
Looking back, what was a quirky habit you had at the office that your coworkers found funny or unforgettable?
I am committed to attending to tasks promptly, even late into the night. On one occasion, I sent an email at 2 a.m., which brought a smile to some colleagues. For me, however, this reflects a dedication to maintaining momentum and ensuring that no one feels neglected. It is my way of demonstrating care and responsibility in supporting the team’s progress.
If you were on an island, what are 3 items you would take?
- A notebook and pen – to reflect, plan, draw, and keep my thoughts grounded.
- My phone – to stay informed and connected to the world.
- Food supplies – to stay nourished and energised, providing the strength needed to adapt and endure.
What’s a surprising skill or talent you have that most people wouldn’t know about?
A surprising skill I have is being a trained playwright and actor, particularly known for playing the role of a watchman in community theatre. I am also a choir singer and a good cook.
Can you share your Favourite Quote?
“Leadership is unlocking people’s potential to become better.” Bill Bradley
