I am the daughter of Greek migrants. Mine was a traditional Greek childhood, living on top of a milk bar and sharing a bedroom with my yiayia. I was a good Greek girl until university when I discovered my rebellious side and abandoned nine-tenths of an economics degree for a career in the theatre.
I managed a number of theatre companies and after a decade in the arts, I decided it was time for a career change. I joined the Victorian Public Service where I spent 20 years as a senior bureaucrat, working in social policy and public administration. I am now a Public Policy Fellow at the University of Melbourne and teach public policy at a post graduate level.
In 2008, I experienced a severe episode of depression and was hospitalised for over a month. I became a vocal mental health advocate and a Beyond Blue Ambassador. While I now live with an ongoing mental illness, I lead an active and purposeful life.
I hold a Master of Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and was named an Australian Financial Review Woman of Influence for leadership in diversity and inclusion
I live in Melbourne with dainty miss puss. In my spare time, I lift weights, potter in the kitchen and hang out with my nephews. Not always in that order.
View this web doco about my work in social change and inclusion which is part of the From A to Me series.
Media
ABC Radio National: Podcast about being a rebellious daughter
The Sunday Age: Interview about being a good Greek Girl
The Conversation Hour: Podcast of my interview with Jon Faine
Life Matters: Podcast of my interview with Natasha Mitchel
SBS Sexuality: Interview about living an authentic life
The Sunday Sesh: Podcast about being a rebellious daughter
JOY FM: Podcast about being being a rebellious daughter
The Mandarin: Interview about being an author and public servant
Leader Newspapers: Interview about The Good Greek Girl
SBS Radio: Interview about being an unconventional good Greek girl