Sparking Inspiration: Insights from Leading Community Engagement Experts

Kylie has worked in Community Engagement at the City of Whittlesea for nearly four years, with 13 years’ experience in local government across Community Services, Facilities, and Research. Her role combines her passion for talking to people, ensuring their voices are heard, and creating digital spaces to turn those voices into meaningful data.

With over 15 years of experience in community engagement and strategic communications in both state and local government and the not-for-profit sector, Kirsten is passionate about putting communities at the heart of decision-making. Currently leading the Community Engagement team at the City of Whittlesea, she specialises in creating inclusive, accessible, and meaningful ways for diverse communities to participate in shaping local projects and policies. Drawing on extensive experience in communications, media relations, and stakeholder engagement, Kirsten brings practical insights on fostering authentic two-way dialogue, navigating complex community issues, and building trust between organisations and the people they serve.

Jacinta is a (fl)awesome facilitator who brings her real self to the room so others can do the same. She creates experiences that connect, inspire action, and leave a lasting impact.

Ella is a social researcher with a background in International Development, food security, and food justice in Australia and the USA. She also supports refugee and newly arrived communities in Melbourne and facilitates education programs in India and Cambodia. Ella teaches Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Melbourne and brings a creative, holistic approach to community development, focusing on social justice and strengthening resilient communities.

Jenny is a social researcher and analyst with 30 years’ experience in health and community services, including 17 years in local government coordinating survey programs, supporting social planning, and helping teams make evidence-based decisions. She focuses on understanding client needs, creating research that fills gaps, and ensuring participants’ contributions are respected and used ethically. Jenny works with clients to close the project loop and communicate results effectively.

Leanne is a highly experienced and results-driven Community Engagement Consultant with a proven track record of delivering successful engagement initiatives for a diverse range of clients. With over 25 years’ experience as a senior community engagement practitioner within the government and private sectors, Leanne combines strategic thinking with a passion for community empowerment to foster meaningful connections between organisations and their stakeholders. Her expertise spans traditional, contemporary, and digital engagement methodologies, enabling her to leverage a wide range of tools and techniques to reach diverse audiences. Leanne provides coaching, mentoring, training, and support to Social Pinpoint customers, helping them achieve successful community engagement outcomes.

Andrew is an experienced community engagement specialist with 18 years' experience on the front line of the practice in the UK and Australia, and nearly 6 years' experience in digital community engagement. With senior experience in consultation, collaboration, and communication across various public participation roles in local and state government, housing, water, and the charity sector, Andrew is also the instigator of an annual Global Community Engagement Day, which came about during his time with Engage 2 Act. Andrew is now Head of Practice and Strategic Relationships, working with both current and potential customers using Social Pinpoint and Consultation Manager. Personally, Andrew has adopted the Adelaide Crows as his local team and is a well-known chocoholic.