Carey recently hosted Industry Week, an initiative that brought together parents, alumni, students and industry professionals for a week of connection, inspiration and learning.
The week began with the OCGA Networking Night, which saw alumni from the early 1980s through to the Class of 2024, together with past, current and future Carey parents. With industries spanning law, finance, technology, design and more represented, it was an invaluable evening of shared stories and new professional connections. The panel discussion, featuring Belinda Coates (1995), Robert Di Pietro (2000), Nisha Karna (2007) and Harley Thomas (1998), sparked lively conversation on everything from brand strategy to deepfakes, as well as the approaches businesses are using to retain top talent.
On Wednesday evening, the focus turned to the future of work trends with the Future Focussed Careers Seminar. Students, alumni and parents heard from industry leaders including Rachel Hosking (GO.FARM), Sonya Rand (Bunnings), and Alistair Jones (Swinburne University). Together they highlighted emerging career opportunities in agriculture, sustainability and space innovation, as well as the enduring importance of adaptability, creativity and critical thinking. Their stories encouraged attendees to look beyond traditional pathways and embrace the possibilities of a rapidly evolving world.
The week continued with Level Up Your LinkedIn on Thursday evening, led by LinkedIn strategist Sue Ellson. This hands-on workshop provided participants with practical tools to refine their professional profiles, showcase transferable skills and build purposeful connections. Guests also had the chance to update their professional image with new headshots, shot by Fiona Sexton Photography, one of our current Carey parents.
The program concluded with Carey’s Business Breakfast, where parents, alumni, staff and friends came together to connect. Guest speaker Cam McIntyre (1988 and current parent), the incoming CEO of REA Group, shared reflections on leadership and business while encouraging the community to embrace the vision of Carey Academy and create opportunities for young alumni through internships. The breakfast demonstrated the true strength of the Carey network, with conversations sparking new partnerships and collaborations.
Industry Week also marked the official launch of Carey Academy – a community learning hub offering workshops, events, internships and professional development opportunities. With a global network of more than 30,000 members, Carey Academy harnesses the extraordinary talent and expertise of alumni, parents and friends to create meaningful opportunities for all.
A special thank you goes to the Alumni and Community Team – Erin Boyd and Grace Phillips – and the Careers Team – Amanda Siva, Sophie Bryant and Trevor Black – for their work behind the scenes in bringing this week to life.
For any questions or ideas for collaboration within the Academy, please contact me.
Kaushini Fernando
Alumni and Community Manager
Photos by Katie Dannock.
