Faculty Champion:Melanie Lewis
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Bio
Hi, I'm Melanie from Sydney, Australia! I've worked in the environmental realm since 1998. Climate Change and Social innovation are my passions. I love nature and am disheartened by our impact on non-human life. In fact, I have dedicated my life to helping people nurture connections that lead to enhanced relationships and interactions with the natural world and its creatures. These days I work as an educator and humanitarian to facilitate learning experiences that get people thinking more strategically about problem-solving our global challenges.
I completed a BSc in Environmental Biology, developing a project proposal for a marine conservation project that would become a MSc thesis exploring the life history traits of an endangered fish species, Girella cyanea. As a part of this research, I developed growth curves and identified vulnerable life stages that would benefit from catch limits and sanctuary zones.
I used my biological knowledge and skills to create a no-pollution skincare solution that aimed to tackle the growing concerns of micro and macro plastics stemming from the cosmetics industry. Developing the idea into a startup enabled me to learn an entrepreneurial mindset that was further complemented by training in design thinking.
As part of my journey into fusing ecological and entrepreneurial know-how to inspire sustainable, responsible problem-solving, I was accepted into the University of Technology Sydney's doctoral program in management. My PhD explores the impact of knowledge coproduction in a climate innovation community.
In 2021 I joined the Macquarie University Incubator as an Expert-in-Residence, where I get to design learning experiences for undergraduate, postgraduate and higher-degree research students and startup founders. Along with my volunteer work for Rotary International, I love introducing people to social innovation and helping them get involved in change projects that benefit the planet.
Achievements
99% NPS for my LXD; University Innovation Fellow; Elected President of the Rotary Social Impact Network; Final stage of PhD (Climate Change Innovation Management); Two amazing kiddos!
