Hope in Hard times

5:30pm Arrival and canapes

6:00pm Panel discussion

Read the headlines and hope can feel like a luxury we can no longer afford. But there is something countercultural about choosing to hope in 2026. Join us for the final Voice Notes of the year: Hope in Hard Times, a frank and uplifting panel conversation exploring the power of hope through the lenses of humanitarianism, social enterprise and environmental stewardship. This is not about pretending things are fine or looking away. Together, we will explore what it means to face the world with optimism: where it comes from, what sustains it, and what we can learn from those who choose to hope anyway, so we can pass it on. Come ready to listen, to be surprised, and to leave a little lighter than you arrived.

Speakers:

Natalie Kyriacou, OAM

Natalie Kyriacou OAM is an award-winning environmentalist, presenter, author and charity director dedicated to inspiring curiosity about the natural world. She is the author of Nature's Last Dance: Tales of Wonder in an Age of Extinction and was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2018 for her services to wildlife and environmental conservation. Natalie has also been recognised as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, a United Nations Environment Programme Young Champion of the Earth finalist, one of LinkedIn's Top Green Voices, and one of The Australian'sTop Innovators.
Nature’s Last Dance: Tales of Wonder in an Age of Extinction - https://www.nataliekyriacou.com/about-the-book

James Spenceley

James Spenceley is an Australian entrepreneur, humanitarian and community leader. He is a Councillor for North Sydney Council, former Chair of Airtasker and former Non-Executive Director of Kogan.com. Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, James founded Aus Ukraine Aid, working directly with frontline medics and local communities to deliver ambulances, medical equipment and humanitarian support. Through his experiences in business and humanitarian work, James has seen how courage, purpose and collective action can create hope in the most challenging circumstances.

Suzie Barnett

Suzie Barnett is a purpose-driven leader who leverages social enterprise as a force for change. She is driving growth at Two Good Co, a social enterprise that funds programs empowering vulnerable women through employment opportunities to rebuild their self-worth and independence. With extensive experience in sustainability and the built environment, Suzie has held leadership roles including CEO of Junglefy, Executive Director of the Green Building Council of Australia and Board member of the Living Future Institute of Australia. She leads with passion, connection and conviction.

Contact the host of Voice Notes Speaker Series 3 - Hope in Hard Times

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