I've had the pleasure of being part of the Telstra family since 2011. Currently, I'm deeply immersed in the world of Product & Technology, with a special focus on integrating AI into our fault management systems. It's an exciting journey, exploring how cutting-edge technology can elevate customer experiences.
Beyond my professional role, I'm fuelled by a passion for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). That's why you'll often find me collaborating with my wonderful colleagues within Telstra's P&T DEI team. Together, we're on a mission to drive positive change, ensuring that every voice is not just heard but valued in our workplace.
When I'm not immersed in tech or DEI initiatives, I love to unwind and give back to my community. You might catch me at a local pottery studio, volunteering my time and skills with others and making a difference beyond the office.
I was lucky enough to be one of 10 Telstra employees nominated by Product & Technology and selected to participate in the inaugural On-Country Exchange Program hosted by Indigenous Desert Alliance (IDA) and Goldfields Esperance Rangers (GACS). The trip was facilitated by Telstra’s First Nations Directorate and funded by the Telstra Foundation.
This three-year program leverages the Foundation’s existing partnership with IDA, assisting them to build a digital skills centre and capacity building for Rangers. This year Team Telstra supported the Rangers to develop and plan stories to capture and create content about their work in the desert while Rangers gained experience and training in the use of multimedia equipment, digital storytelling and communications. The Telstra Foundation also gifted GACS a brand-new state of the art digital media kit, including a drone!
Reflecting on my experience, I find myself profoundly moved and inspired by our journey on Wongatha Country (Morapoi Station), in the Goldfields of Western Australia. What I had previously heard and read about the deep connection to country became vividly real as we engaged in on-ground Ranger work, visited sacred cultural sites, and shared stories with Elders under the expansive desert sky. The once seemingly barren landscape transformed into a tapestry of bush tucker and medicine, each plant and its use revealed to us by knowledgeable Rangers, Elders and Traditional Owners.
Returning to the hustle and bustle of modern life, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the stark contrast to the serene, contemplative environment we had just left behind. The experience has instilled in me a renewed appreciation for the importance of finding moments of quiet reflection amidst the noise of daily life.
As I continue to reflect on my time on Wongatha Country, I realise that these initial impressions are just the beginning. The lessons learned and memories made during this trip are sure to resonate with me for a lifetime. One poignant call to action from the Rangers and Elders particularly resonates with me: to support First Nations communities by consciously choosing to spend with First Nations-owned businesses. This commitment has sparked my determination to explore and support local initiatives closer to home, starting with a bush tucker and medicine tour and offering my skills to mentor the Goldfields Esperance Rangers in creating a new website.
I am deeply grateful to my colleagues whose camaraderie and shared experiences made this journey possible. We committed to coming back and sharing our stories with our team mates, which we’re all so proud and passionate to do, so you’ll be hearing more!
Telstra proudly represents First Nations employees and is committed to strengthening the connection with the broader First Nations Australian community.
Find out more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Telstra.
