Bec Wolgast, a former multiplatform producer and university lecturer turned secondary educator, champions lifelong learning and innovative teaching, exemplified by her award-winning cross-curricular projects that integrate ICT, First Nations perspectives, and the arts.

Desley, an experienced educational facilitator, empowers diverse learners through entrepreneurial programs that inspire innovation, foster sustainable growth, and equip participants with the tools and mindset to transform ideas into successful ventures.

Nicole Amey, an award-winning educator and innovation advocate, is a Deputy Principal at Urangan State High School who champions entrepreneurial education, community engagement, and youth-focused innovation to empower students and drive systems change in education.

Dr. Michelle Vanderburg, a literacy researcher and educator at CQUniversity, focuses on advancing digital literacy, STEM education, and makerspace pedagogy to support teachers in leveraging technology for student learning.

Samantha Pickering, passionate coach and mentor,  accomplished and recognised business leader, proud mum of 2, and one of Queensland's 40 Under 40 for 2024, draws on her professional background and training to build and nurture high-performing teams.

With 17 years at Bond University, Jodie leads the Transformer Program, a fee-free initiative fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. Jodie empowers students to explore business creation alongside their studies, launching programs like ‘Idea to Launch’ and Transformer+ workshops.

Kelli Parr has been an educator for over 20 years and is currently the Head of Engagement for Years 9 and 10 at Kepnock State High School. She is passionate about working with students and their families to explore pathway options that support student success.

Simon Lowe, co-founder and joint CEO of People Tech Revolution and The Ageing Revolution, specialises in strategic partnerships and design thinking. With expertise in systems change, user experience, and behavior change, he develops innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Jimmy, a PhD candidate at the University of Queensland and data analytics officer for the Bundaberg Educational Precinct, specialises in human enhancement technologies and is a recognised educator known for his award-winning "Colleagues in Training" teaching approach.

Graham Cooper, a former accountant turned secondary maths teacher at Kepnock State High School since 2016, is dedicated to engaging students through ICT integration, cross-curricular teaching, and life skills education, fostering positive relationships and empowering QCIA students to achieve their personal goals.

Linda Pfeiffer is an award-winning STEM educator and researcher at CQUniversity, specialising in STEM education, science education, and partnerships. She leads projects like the Australia Pacific LNG STEM Central program and co-authored the award-winning STEM Education in the Primary School: A Teacher’s Toolkit.

Professor Rowena Barrett is an expert in thinking innovatively and being entrepreneurial to get things done. She leads QUT’s priority for entrepreneurship creating the environment in which entrepreneurship amplifies discipline expertise for students, staff and alumni.

Nikkiya is a proud cultural performer & a cultural leader within her family, community, and high school.

Megan leads a pioneering Catholic online school offering flexible, high-quality education for senior students. Passionate about innovation, she fosters student-centered learning that builds connection, adaptability, and excellence, empowering students and educators to thrive in a digital world.

Lisa is an experienced educator, curriculum specialist, and educational technology entrepreneur with over 12 years in teaching and leadership. She has a Master of Educational Leadership, a Master of Contemporary Literacies, and a Bachelor of Education/Bachelor of Business.

With a background in secondary science education and science communication and outreach, Jen joined the Queensland Resources Council in 2018 where she developed and delivered STEM focused student workshops as part of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA).

Jenna Auer, Founding Principal of Impact Community Academy, is a dedicated educational leader specialising in trauma-informed practices and innovative, inclusive programs that empower marginalized youth to achieve their full potential through engaging, supportive learning environments.

Breeha is the Deputy Principal at the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy, Central Queensland, driving innovative STEM education. A 2021 Peter Doherty Award recipient, she is passionate about supporting rural and remote students and fostering creative thinking through design thinking.

Mayor Helen Blackburn, a proud Bundaberg local, former soldier, entrepreneur, and council representative, is dedicated to leading a transparent Council focused on reducing costs, driving economic and population growth, and supporting community organisations that strengthen the region.

Tara Jacobsen, a social scientist and futurist, co-founded Groei Education to design innovative education pathways. She has founded three training organisations, lectures in Entrepreneurship and Strategy, and is pursuing a PhD. Tara also mentors, serves on multiple boards, and leads Study Sunshine Coast.

Chris Gill coordinates the Bundaberg Educational Precinct, uniting schools, NGOs, and government on education and community issues. Principal of Bundaberg State High, he has led in Wide Bay education for 20 years and served the local community for nearly 30.

Shelley Pisani, Business Manager at Bridges Health & Community Care, leads BridgeWorx, a creative wellbeing initiative. With a background in arts, business, and community development, she connects creativity with health, education, and social impact.

Michael Dart is an Executive and the Chief Customer Officer for the State Government-owned Energy Queensland, Australia’s largest electricity company. Michael brings world-class strategic customer leadership to Energy Queensland, and to QT.

David Brown is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the IT Industry with a focus on Education for most of that time. Currently serving as an Account Executive at Lenovo, David specialises in consultative selling. He has a proven track record of working with schools to ensure learning objectives are met.

Samantha Ephraims, a Lead Teacher with 20+ years’ experience, specializes in Digital Technologies. She teaches at Kalkie State School and CQ University, focusing on coding, robotics, and cyber-safety. Her students have won top awards, including RoboRave International and Young ICT Explorers.

Scott Millar, a globally recognised generational consultant, keynote speaker, and award-winning business leader, empowers organisations to navigate the future of work by fostering intergenerational collaboration and leveraging innovation and technology.

Amanda Kelk, a leader in innovative and Gifted education, empowers students and educators through authentic learning. A Teach X finalist and Prime Minister’s Award nominee, she shares her expertise through conferences, publications, and workshops.

Luke works across Gladstone and Wide Bay Burnett, driving regional growth as Associate Vice-President. With 20+ years in education, he supports university expansion, engagement, and student welfare while understanding the opportunities and challenges of regional education.

Julia Spicer OAM is a rural entrepreneur driving innovation in Queensland. Founder of three Goondiwindi businesses, she empowers women and Indigenous entrepreneurs through business planning, funding, and strategy. Her mission: strengthen regional Australia by helping businesses grow.

AJ Haron, Education Manager at Queensland Computers, brings global experience from RMIT Vietnam, HCT UAE, and institutions in New Zealand and China. Specializing in smart city tech and innovation, he integrates cutting-edge technology with practical learning.

Damien Tracey is the CEO of Community Lifestyle Support (CLS), a not-for-profit organisation that provides a wide range of allied health and disability support services to people living throughout the Wide Bay Burnett Region.

Danita Kiriazis is a driven leader of technical and operations teams with 20 years of experience in Process Engineering. Danita is currently the Technical Manager at Alpha HPA where she is passionate about developing team members to reach their potential and solve problems with innovative solutions.