Year 10 Careers Week

Roman MC is an award-winning artist, freestyle rapper, filmmaker and educator who has worked with diverse communities around Australia and the globe for over 15 years. His career has spanned several roles from touring with international bands to the world of global tech startups, award-winning higher education programs in SE QLD, and even a world tour with a critically acclaimed urban circus. He is passionate about education and encouraging the next generation to find and follow their passion, show up in life, enjoy meaningful work and embrace the journey of change that a modern career story can be.

Dr. Yi Chen was born and raised in Malaysia and came to Australia to pursue tertiary studies, graduating in 2013 with degrees in Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Medical Science from the University of Melbourne. She has a decade of experience working as a medical doctor in hospitals and clinics. She has also made significant contributions to medical research, presenting her findings in Australia and the United States and publishing in reputable medical journals. Dr. Yi Chen combines her medical knowledge with an engaging personality to deliver entertaining and educational talks. You can expect to be motivated and inspired after attending her session.

Gary Weatherley is an Executive Director for Portland House, a private investment company in Melbourne. He is responsible for the firm's operations, including its office in New York City. Leaving school at 15 to complete a carpentry apprenticeship, Gary started at Portland House in 1991 as a Property Manager and progressed through the organisation to become CEO in 2010. Although he recently retired as CEO, he continues in his current role as a Director. Gary has 45 years of work experience, including 30 years in the investment industry, covering equities and fixed income in both public and private markets.

Danielle Deroon has a background in criminal justice and law and is a practicing lawyer in the charity and not-for-profit sector. She is a Board Director at a telecom company and runs her small business, 'Law in Schools.' Passionate about social justice and advocating for marginalised groups, particularly in law and education, she has worked with refugees, in human resources, women-led startups, investment and corporate governance. She enjoys sharing her diverse career and life experiences with others. Danielle loves Sanrio characters (IYKYK), swimming, talking to cats and dogs, and has a new hobby each month, which is currently fixing second-hand furniture.

JoyLee Kilpatrick is a child and family therapist with 15 years of experience in the sexual assault and family violence sector. She works as a counsellor advocate at the SAFV Centre in Geelong and holds degrees in psychology, child psychotherapy and family therapy, and is currently pursuing studies in sexology. Passionate about trauma and creative client work, she presented a resource for parents at the Australia/NZ Family Violence Conference and developed a therapeutic group program for families who have experienced violence. JoyLee aims to further her work in sexology, focusing on delivering comprehensive education. In her spare time, she enjoys baking, musical theatre and spending time with her husband and children.

Jesse McCarthy was born and raised in Canada, and from a young age, had a keen interest in aircraft and things that fly. Jesse completed his Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering at RMIT University with first class honours, and subsequently went on to complete a PhD in Aerospace Engineering. Jesse is currently employed by the Australian Defence Science and Technology Group and works in Experimental Aerodynamics where he operates primarily as a scientist and engineer to support and serve the Australian Government and public. Jesse is adamant about serving in church first and foremost and has served in leadership roles at Planetshakers Church over the last 15 years.

Daniel Tusjak is a Melbourne-based musician known for his performances with Peter Cupples, Janet Ross-Fahy, Sarahlouise Younger and Elissa Parsons. He works with the Australian Girls Choir and Victorian Opera and has collaborated with artists like Debra Byrne, Kate Ceberano and Luke Kennedy. As a music theatre musician, Daniel has worked on the likes of ‘Catch Me If You Can’ and ‘Mamma Mia!’ and has served as Music Director for ‘A Chorus Line’ and ‘Made in Dagenham.’ As a composer, he has written for short films, theatre, cabaret and video games. Among his accolades, his score for ‘A Gift Horse’ was nominated for Best Original Score in the My Rode Reel competition. Daniel currently lectures in Music Theatre at Federation University Arts Academy.

Clara Yap is a full-time Creative Designer at Beulah and thrives on understanding what makes people tick and how a relationship can be forged between the visual element and the viewer. After studying communication design at Swinburne University, she began her career at Studio Binocular, working with clients from sectors including city councils, educational institutions and small businesses. Now at Beulah, she collaborates with the marketing team to develop impactful designs across print and digital for the property sector. Clara’s creativity extends beyond work too, and on weekends, you can find her illustrating, commissioning artwork, cafe hopping and planning her next overseas travel adventure.

WPC Group, a leading employer of apprentices and trainees, supports over 650 Australians nationally. Founded in Melbourne, WPC Group is recognised for innovative apprenticeship programs with awards from Esso Australia and Nissan Australia. With 40+ years' experience, WPC Group delivers tailored training and high retention rates, and promotes apprenticeship opportunities publicly.