Philanthropy has the power to genuinely change lives: opening up the doors to opportunity that may otherwise remain closed.

Few embody this principle more clearly than John and Marcy McCall MacBain, both of whom have traversed the worlds of commerce; innovation; application and giving in Canada and all over the world.

In his own right as a long-time donor to VU, John lives by a deep sense of responsibility; to invest in future leaders, to act on climate change, and to strengthen institutions that expand opportunity for others.

During a recent visit to our Footscray Park Campus, John met with scholarship students whose studies have been made possible through his generous giving. One student gave John a handwritten letter in gratitude – a beautiful symbol of how philanthropy is not abstract – it’s deeply personal and life-changing.

John joined me in the studio for episode #56 of People of VU, reflecting on a journey that bridges entrepreneurial success – from growing Trader Classified Media into a global leader, to establishing the McCall MacBain Foundation with his wife Marcy – with an enduring commitment to giving back and changing the world for the better.

Professor Amin Saikal AM, FASSA is one of Australia’s most respected voices in global affairs, and he generously shared his incredible story with us on the latest episode of the People of VU podcast.

Topics discussed:

1. Ashwin's education journey from early years at Krishnamurti Foundation to Harvard University
2. Equity in education and healthcare
3. VU Delhi NCR Campus and the possibilities of the partnership together

Topics discussed:

1. A 40-year career at BHP
2. Shaping policy and industry
3. Time as a Chancellor of VU

Topics discussed:

1. Connection to VU and establishing a performing arts career
2. Contemporary dance in various forms and what learnings Jono has garnered
3. Belonging and community

Topics discussed:

1. Championing intersectional equity in STEM
2. Responsible AI
3. Diversity for innovation

Topics discussed:

1. Sea changes and career changes from Mauritius to Melbourne
2. Anousha's commitment to advocacy for diversity in IT as a member of the Victorian Directors of IT and Women in IT Community of Practice.
3. Empowerment and growth across two degrees and VU's Future Leaders Program for staff.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• http://example.com
• http://second-example.com

Topics discussed:

1. Career changing into the digital learning space at VU.
2. What it feels like to be the new drummer in feminist punk Band Cat Crawl
3. The grit, determination and training it took to step into the ring to compete in an MMA cage fight.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• http://example.com
• http://second-example.com

Topics discussed:

1. Komal introduces the fundamentals of her fascinating thesis on decolonising education.
2. From Delhi to Melbourne, walk in the shoes of an international student.
3. See the synergy in literature, dance and education as Komal shares her passions

Links mentioned in this episode:

• http://example.com
• http://second-example.com

1. How studying a Masters of Engineering resulted in a career in the field
2. Working as a student mentor at VU
3. Receiving two leadership awards and membership of the STEM Sisters program

Topics discussed:

1. Emma's recent appointment to the Professoriate from humble beginnings as a student
2. A successful NHMRC Grant application for work in Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy
3. Juggling a career with motherhood

Topics discussed:

1. The wealth of career development opportunities available for VU students to progress from student to staff member.
2. The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood teaching which featured in Melanie's Education Studies at VU.
3. Live your Lemon - a community support project built from the ground up by Melanie and her friends.

On behalf of Victoria University and all our listeners, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. José Ramos-Horta for his participation in the special live recording of the People of VU podcast on Friday 11 October. It was amazing — and so enjoyable.

I encourage you to join me again for Part 2 of this enlightening conversation with His Excellency José Ramos-Horta.

On 11 October, 70 guests had the incredible privilege of sharing in the hopeful journey of His Excellency José Ramos-Horta. In this special live episode, Dr. José Ramos-Horta shares his experiences growing up in remote Timorese villages, his relentless pursuit of Timorese independence, and his reflections on global peace and the role of the United Nations. He also discusses the profound relationship between Timor-Leste and its international supporters, and the future of education for young Timorese.

Of all the world leaders I have been privileged to meet, Dr. José Ramos-Horta has the highest degree of steely humility —and an absolutely inspiringly wicked sense of humour (in the most humble and insightful sense of those words).

As an appointed Distinguished Visiting Professor and holder of an Honorary Doctorate from VU, and as a deep, deep friend of VU, his contributions are proposed with real respect, admiration, and affection.

I know you will be captivated by his story — as I was. I encourage you to listen to Part 1 now.

In this episode, Thunu shares her experiences studying law at VU’s iconic City Tower campus, how growing up in Sri Lanka shaped her ambition to work for international civil society — and what it’s like to have your face on a tram!

I cannot wait to see what she does next.

In this episode, Mevan speaks to embracing his Sri Lankan heritage through music, the joy of witnessing young people unleash their imagination through advanced technologies and growing up in a family of diversely talented individuals — all VU alumni!

I was delighted to connect with Mevan over our shared love of music and the significant role Wyndham Tech School is playing in secondary students’ education.

Today, Vince speaks to studying multimedia design at VU, his “cool-comfort” approach to footwear design and making calm decisions in business and life.

I was delighted to speak with Vince about our shared love of trainers and welcome him as VU's 2024 Executive in Residence.

Today, Karlee speaks to the people, roles, and organisations that helped her go from not speaking until age 9 to being one step closer to her ultimate dream of being a social worker.

It was fantastic to hear her journey and we can’t wait to see what she does next!

Katrina has been an invaluable member of our VU community for over eight years. During this time, she brought her expertise in communications to various roles – from her beginnings in the community outreach team to working with us in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor.

As Katrina embarks on a new journey in the not-for-profit sector, I wanted the opportunity to sit down with her and delve into her experiences, insights, and memorable moments at VU and beyond. There is no doubt that her care and creativity shines through very brightly all the way through.

I had a wonderful chat with Lizzie on the eve of her graduation – she is the first in her family to graduate from university. Today, Lizzie received her Bachelor of Education degree, and multiple generations of her family cheered from the crowd.

It was fantastic to see and we hope she continues to kick goals in her career!

Anesu's vibrant personality radiates positivity every time we meet. It was such a delight to really get to know him in the latest People of VU episode.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92llWoeA680

In the first People of VU podcast episode for this year, discover how Dev and Chandra are set to shape VUSU in 2024.

Today, he shares this passion with VU students through immersive, hands-on classes that delve into the future of our homes. Dr. Chau's dedication extends to innovative research — in which he explores sustainable housing options like green roofs and tiny houses. These are timely solutions given the significant impact of climate change on living conditions across Australia.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://theconversation.com/councils-are-opening-the-door-to-tiny-houses-as-a-quick-affordable-and-green-solution-217267

In this episode, after learning about Gary's early political activity in part one, we shift our focus to his influence on the arts scene and his realisation of theatre as a powerful medium for activism.

We also explore the stories surrounding trailblazers such as Oodgeroo Noonuccal, Richard Bell, Chicka Dixon, John Newfong, and Uncle Jack Charles, and Gary's significant interactions with each of them.

They each played pivotal roles in reshaping the landscape for First Nations people during the eighties and beyond—spanning literature, the arts, human rights and justice, media, and theatre.

Gary’s networks and discovery of new platforms led to him co-writing and appearing in Basically Black – the first Aboriginal stage production in 1972.

A decade after the establishment of Whitlam’s Aboriginal Arts Board, Gary also assumed the role of its first (Aboriginal) Director. He redirected funding exclusively towards Indigenous-led projects after the revelation that 50% of the resources were benefiting non-Indigenous individuals.

These are just some of the incredible insights Gary shared about his life.

Towards the end of the episode, Gary became known as "Professor Unprecedented” – a title that aptly captures the very essence of Professor Gary Foley.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/university-profile/moondani-balluk-indigenous-academic-unit/aboriginal-research-researchers/aboriginal-history-archive-aha

Gary's activism has always been revolutionary – from the Tent Embassy protests of the seventies through to the role he has played transforming the landscape of First Nations politics and history today.

Today I am delighted to share part one of the podcast, in which Gary talks about what really stoked the fire of his many campaigns for change.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/university-profile/moondani-balluk-indigenous-academic-unit/aboriginal-research-researchers/aboriginal-history-archive-aha

This episode was recorded with a live audience at Victoria University's Footscray Park Campus.

Topics discussed:

1. Our Watch and Victoria University partnership – Educating for equality
2. Student safety
3. Gender equality and preventing gender-based violence

Find out more:

• https://www.ourwatch.org.au/
• https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/news-events/news/vu-our-watch-join-to-prevent-gender-based-violence

Notably, both Christine and Rebecca represented Victoria University in two challenging competitions – the 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) and Visualise Your Thesis. Their research topics are both complex and crucial, and in our conversation, we explored how they distil this information to deepen collective understanding.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 3MT – Exposing Christian-Specific Spiritual Abuse in Intimate Partner Violence: https://vimeo.com/849334403?share=copy
• VYT – Towards reducing socioeconomic inequalities in mental health: https://visualiseyourthesis.figshare.com/articles/presentation/Towards_reducing_socioeconomic_inequalities_in_mental_health_the_impact_of_urban_traffic-related_air_and_noise_pollution/24105219

Along her journey, Western Chances provided essential support that helped her achieve her dreams. But that's not all – Manar also has her eyes on the Olympics.

To hear more about Manar's incredible journey and what keeps her going, check out the latest People of VU podcast episode. Her story is all about passion, resilience, and the pursuit of potential.

Now, she's preparing for the Cricket Veteran National Championship.

At work as a Business Analyst, Indu delves deep into new subjects, as seen in her work on the 'Chosen Name Project' at Victoria University. This fantastic initiative has resulted in staff and students ea sily updating their chosen name, pronouns and gender identity on our systems. "The right-minded people came together on this project," she says, and now we are seeing very clear actions to make VU an even more inclusive place.

Lifeline's relentless efforts to combat the stigma around seeking help have resulted in more people than ever reaching out for assistance. Days like today provide yet another opportunity to elevate the conversation surrounding mental health.

I recently had a fantastic discussion with Colin for the People of VU podcast, where his dedication and ethos came across so clearly. This has been a constant thread throughout his life – from his time studying Applied Science at Victoria University to training with the Footscray Football Club along the Maribyrnong River and now leading a major national health organisation.

Her research has gone global in eight nations with the support of PUMA — and the results are very impressive.

I discovered all this and more in a terrific discussion with Clare for the People of VU podcast. We ventured beyond the university sector, delving into personal insights and addressing a topic that is gripping the world today — the Women's World Cup.

Disclaimer: This episode was recorded before the USA lost to Sweden in penalties!

Beyond this, Tuesday has travelled the world, was a teen tennis prodigy, and spoken their truth on stage and in publications. What can’t they do?

I was delighted to find out more about their life and inspiration in the latest episode of my People of VU podcast.

Tuesday is wise beyond their years, and their empathy and respect emanated through every word.

As the Director of the Mitchell Institute, Victoria University’s educational policy think tank, Peter’s day job is analysing the future of ‘systems’ and telling their stories.

You may be familiar with 'childcare deserts', which – one year on from the report about early childhood education availability – has become consistent media vernacular. That was the brainchild of Peter and his team.

In the most recent episode of the #PeopleofVU podcast, I learned that many of these ideas come to Peter during long runs – among many other unexpected insights into his personality, background and experience. They have all contributed towards the wonderful person we know Peter to be and the highly valued colleague he has become at Victoria University.

Mary-Rose weaves drama through all she does, including her classes. Drama games are central to shaking up her student’s learning experiences, and while they may start shy (or with resistance), Mary-Rose sees her students gain a sense of belonging, identity and trust.

In this way, Mary-Rose is nurturing the next generation of Early Childhood Educators – opening their minds to the possibilities of education and the interconnections between their influence and children's agency.

I had a truly insightful conversation with Mary-Rose about her background, her life experiences and what she sees for the future of Early Childhood. It is a critical sector – for children and their families and the Australian economy – but also one that has the opportunity to push boundaries.

To this day, Helen's "strong opinions" has led to significant social and political change. She has continuously advocated for the people of Timor-Leste and the young nation's global position, seeking opportunities for all those she encounters.

I was delighted to have Helen as this year's first People of VU podcast guest, where she reflected on her upbringing, her activism, and her time at VU teaching International Community Development.

I am delighted to introduce Stuart Clegg, Victoria University’s Senior Video Producer.

Our conversation traversed shipwrecks, rock music and commercial TV and highlighted the fact that there are many ways to bloom as an individual. Stu went from being a ‘coastie’ to a ‘westie’ and has deeply immersed himself in both the VU community and in the life of the region.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

With a background ranging from training with the Matildas in the Premier League to Public Relations and marketing, Danielle sought something more. This led her to Biomedical Science at Victoria University and – subsequently – to becoming the student representative on the VU Council.

She is now progressing her dreams towards a career in health – and her giving nature is palpable every day...

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In the latest episode of the People of VU podcast, Vasileios gives a perfect example of how his research has a profound impact on the world around him.

From identifying the cause of gaming addiction to developing games for health, his research is applied to the lived experiences of people. This is something VU researchers do outstandingly well.

Vasileos is the 2022 Victorian Tall Poppy Award winner, and I can see why. Our chat was truly fascinating and so timely as we navigate digital futures.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

I had a fantastic conversation with Paola for the People of VU podcast. We unpacked the occupation she would list on a visa application; how it felt striding across the graduation stage to receive her PhD; and what gives the Footscray community its edge.

Paola imparted some incredibly uplifting and thought-provoking words in this episode. It is certainly one to listen to in great depth.

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Tahnee is the first VU student to be interviewed on People of VU. I discovered more about her experiences as a biomedical science student, growing up off-grid on Bundjalung country and her big goals in life.

As we are embarking on our second round of 2022 graduations this week, there could be no better time to celebrate one of our students.

Just a week ago the federal government was deep in discussion at the Jobs and Skills Summit. You will hear me speak with Anne Howard about the potential outcomes for Vocational Education and her views on what more can be done.

Anne is Victoria University Polytechnic’s Executive Director of the College of Education, Skills and Jobs. She is incredibly passionate about language, learning and setting people up with the skills to succeed. I discovered that her career has traversed regional Victoria, metropolitan Melbourne and industry — with her role as ‘educator’ enriching all she does.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

I was joined by Dr Mary Woessner (PhD), one of our star researchers and lecturers in Clinical Exercise Science. Throughout our conversation, there were repeated themes of potentiality, the natural world and health underpinning everything.

Mary said that she wants to be known as “the researcher that I am rather than the research that I do”. This episode gives us a wonderful insight into her insightful and highly productive career.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

As a former accountant and architect respectively, Kirsten and Franziska are passionate and highly-skilled individuals whose leadership was integral to the success of the VU City Tower – the largest vertical campus in Australia.

From construction to COVID; from design to daring-to-be-different: we get to hear directly from them about the highs and (rare) lows of a multi-million dollar, dual-sector construction project.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

What better time than this to release a podcast with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor People & Organisation, Peter Radoll, who fondly describes his people-centred role with the words: “No one has a better job than I do!”.

Those who have met Peter would know his warm, generous and collegial nature. In this People of VU episode, he is incredibly candid. Peter shares his journey from his earliest days as a motor mechanic to his most recent positions as an academic and senior leader.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Lucy has developed a unique perspective from her regional upbringing and experience in the arts and health sectors. From the Women's Circus to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Lucy has worked as a transformative CFO in a wide variety of areas. She truly tells stories with financials - and they are stories that matter.

I have greatly appreciated Lucy’s enlightened and pragmatic approach. While numbers are her thing, she has brought so much more to VU.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

One of the University’s most diverse and talented colleagues in terms of his skillset and contribution, Richard’s story is a highly engaging one.

I talked to Richard about starting his career as an IT technician, progressing into management, and his service-orientated approach in episode 7 of the People of VU podcast. A truly humble colleague, Richard’s adaptability and commitment to continuous improvement has made great things happen here at VU!

*Note: Richard no longer works at Victoria University.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

I had the privilege of having a deep conversation with Wade, the University’s new Deputy Vice-Chancellor External Relations and Partnerships, about work, life, and those that influenced him along the way.

Wade’s experiences in the Trade Union movement, parliament and community organisations have shaped him into such an inspired, level-headed and value-driven leader.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

It was an absolute pleasure to interview Nyadol and discuss her journeys in life and work. Her unique perspective is a breath of fresh air, and what a privilege it is to have her - a VU alumna - return to VU and lead the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre.

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A highlight for me was the depth of John’s passion for sociology and widening participation in higher education. A truly fascinating discussion!

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After originally wanting to study medicine, Andy discovered his love of science and research after impactful studies involving sheep and monkeys. It is amazing what we are learning about our colleagues in this podcast series, and I am so grateful to everyone for their openness.

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Dianne is one of the colleagues who inspire me daily. I am honoured to be able to celebrate her achievements and to release the second episode of the People of VU #podcast on International Women’s Day.

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In the first episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Chancellor Steve Bracks and outgoing Deputy-Chancellor Gaye Hamilton. It is an honest and insightful conversation.

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