I’ve always been fascinated by the “why” behind the “what.” Why do brilliant people struggle to communicate? Why does “inclusion” often feel like a box-ticking exercise instead of a lived reality? My PhD in participatory practice was built around a single conviction: the people closest to the problem are the best source of the solution. That principle runs through everything I do as a coach.
Before stepping into coaching, I spent more than 28 years in public service, emergency management, and the community sector. I’ve sat with conflict in places where it really mattered — in emergency services during bushfire seasons, in community development in post-conflict Belfast, and inside large organisations trying to make inclusion more than a policy document. I’ve led research on diversity and intersectionality at CSIRO and Our Watch, and managed inclusion accreditation projects in organisations with tens of thousands of staff.
All of that work taught me something: most conflict is just a collision of different processing styles. I saw neurodivergent talent being sidelined, leaders frustrated by “difficult” team dynamics, and friction being managed with band-aids instead of understanding. I started this practice because I wanted to use what I’d learned differently — not as a policymaker or researcher, but as a thinking partner.
My approach is trauma-informed and co-designed. I don’t offer cookie-cutter advice. I offer a partnership — I’m here to help you understand your own brain, respect the brains of others, and build a professional life that actually fits the way you’re wired.
Practice
Jiann’s professional practice spans intersectionality, diversity and inclusion, emergency management, community development, and organisational coaching — unified by a commitment to human rights and social justice.
01 Intersectionality and Gender-Based Violence Prevention
As Intersectionality Lead at Our Watch, Jiann leads the development of intersectional approaches to the prevention of violence against women. This work ensures that policy frameworks and prevention strategies address the compounding effects of multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination — including racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and classism — alongside gender inequality. Drawing on extensive experience in human rights and social justice, she works to ensure that the voices and experiences of those most affected are centred in prevention efforts.
02 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Research and Consulting
Jiann has driven DEI strategy within some of Australia’s most significant institutions. At CSIRO’s Data61, she embedded inclusive practices into data science and digital technology research as Senior Research Consultant. At the City of Port Phillip, she provided strategic advice on equity and community engagement. At The Salvation Army, she managed the Rainbow Tick accreditation program, ensuring LGBTIQ+ inclusive service delivery. Her approach combines rigorous research with practical, rights-based frameworks that create lasting organisational change.
03 Emergency Management and Community Safety
During Victoria’s bushfire crisis and recovery period, Jiann led youth engagement and emergency management programs at the Country Fire Authority. She integrated community development principles into emergency response, managing the Cadets program and leading projects that built community resilience. This work required navigating high-stakes, time-critical environments while maintaining a focus on inclusion and community wellbeing.
04 Community Development
With deep roots in community development spanning three countries, Jiann has worked with displaced people at the Asylum Seekers Centre (seven years), managed digital communications for Médecins Sans Frontières Australia (five years), coordinated programs across sectarian divides in West Belfast, and supported recently arrived migrants in one of Australia’s most diverse communities at Auburn City Council. Her practice is grounded in participatory methods, needs assessment, and rights-based project design.
05 Organisational Coaching
As an accredited Organisational Coach, Jiann builds strong foundations of trust and psychological safety in teams. She is highly attuned to what motivates individuals and what elevates their performance. Her coaching practice draws on trauma-informed approaches and an understanding of systemic dynamics, helping organisations and individuals navigate complexity and reach their full potential.