Meet the QUT alumni behind some of Australia's most loved businesses, from alcohol-free beer to linen and homewares
|
|
|
As a proud QUT alumnus, and CEO and Co-Founder of Fable Food Co, I am thrilled to share my insights in this Business Pioneers edition of the alumni newsletter. My experience as a business owner has taught me the importance of working on something that truly inspires me. With Fable, I'm driven by a desire to help end industrial animal agriculture in a way that's healthy, sustainable, and satisfying for consumers. My love for mushrooms and their incredible potential has made this journey even more fulfilling.
In my article, I discuss the challenges we've faced, the lessons learned, and the exciting future we envision for mushrooms to become a larger part of our Australian diet. I invite you to read more about my journey and how we aim to inspire others in this evolving industry here.
Read on for more stories and experiences from fellow QUT alumni and researchers, exploring innovation and business success. Warm regards, |
|
|
| Michael Fox
CEO and Co-Founder, Fable Food Co Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (2004) |
|
|
Highlight Event: Creativity in Large Scale Contexts |
Join us on 29 October for an enlightening lecture hosted by QUT with Yale Professor Jonathon Feinstein. Discover how creativity emerges from engaging with personal experiences, creative fields, opportunities, and challenges. Plus, get an exclusive presentation on his new book, Creativity in Large Scale Contexts.
> Secure your ticket
|
|
| |
Upcoming events & opportunities |
|
|
Lauren Roe | The great indoors |
Class of 2002
Meet the QUT alumnus behind I Love Linen, an iconic name in bedding, living and fashion. What began as a maternity leave passion project, quickly transformed into one of Australia's most successful homeware ventures. We discuss her business success and the lessons she's learned along the way.
> Get cozy with Lauren
|
|
Andy Miller | Redefining drinking culture with Heaps Normal |
Class of 2007
Andy Miller is on a mission to disrupt drinking culture with a fun and refreshing twist. Andy dives into the inspiration behind Heaps Normal, his journey from creative student projects to founding a non-alcoholic beer brand, and how living in Bangkok has shaped his business strategy.
> Sit down with Andy |
|
|
Emily Yeoh | No time like now |
Class of 2009
Emily Yeoh's journey is a testament to following your passion against the odds. From earning a Bachelor of Engineering to competing on MasterChef Australia, Emily shares the inspiration behind her restaurant, cultural expectations, and the challenges she overcame.
> Cook up a conversation with Emily
|
|
Julie and Maurice Hillier | The heart and hands behind Ministry of Handmade |
Class of 1979
Julie and Maurice Hillier share how their lifelong passion for hands-on creativity inspired the founding of Ministry of Handmade. They reflect on the importance of sustainability and the joy of teaching handmade skills in an increasingly digital world.
> Read our Q&A with Julie and Maurice |
|
|
Alexander Bayliss | Rolling the dice |
Class of 2010 and 2012
During the 2020 lockdowns, like many of us, Alexander Bayliss found himself at home, exploring his hobbies. For Alex, this meant immersing himself in online gaming. Then, he had a lightbulb moment: why not create his own board game?
> Take a seat at Alex's game table |
| Alyssa Koenan | The pursuit of wellness |
Class of 2019
Alyssa Koenen has dedicated her career to helping others optimise their health and performance. Now the owner of her own private practice, Alyssa sat down with the Alumni team to discuss business ownership, and wellness in the digital age.
> Discover Alyssa's journey
|
|
|
Below are some businesses owned by QUT alumni. Explore these impressive ventures and show your support where you can. Retail and Hospitality -
ALEMAIS (Lesleigh Jermanus, class of 2006)
-
Casetify (Wesley Ng, class of 2003)
-
Culture Kings (Simon Beard, class of 2005)
-
Emily Yeoh (Emily Yeoh, class of 2009)
-
Fable Food Co (Michael Fox, class of 2004)
-
FRANKIE4 (Caroline McCulloch, class of 2003)
-
Heaps Normal (Andy Miller, class of 2007)
-
I Love Linen (Lauren Roe, class of 2002)
-
Nodo Donuts (Kate Williams, class of 2011)
-
The Bearded Chap (Luke Swenson, class of 2011)
-
The Soft Spot (Kristie Ting, class of 2015)
-
Ultra Violette (Rebecca Jefferd, class of 1997)
Arts and Culture Services
Do you know of other alumni-owned businesses? Please let us know via alumni@qut.edu.au. |
|
|
Modern work is an evolving ecosystem. With robotics, generative AI, and the gig economy on the rise, QUT's Professor Penny Williams investigates how technology is impacting our careers and workplaces.
> Read more |
|
|
Paying with your face: what will convince consumers to use facial recognition payment technology? |
Are you willing to use your face to pay for your morning coffee? Facial recognition payment technology (FRPT) is on the rise. Discover the benefits, barriers, and what retailers can do to ease the transition.
> Find out more
|
|
Dr Charmaine Glavas | Thriving in uncertainty |
How do women entrepreneurs thrive in uncertain times? Dr Charmaine Glavas' research highlights the crucial role of self efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.
> Discover the research
|
|
|
Laurie Cowled Women in Leadership Scholarship |
The Laurie Cowled Women in Leadership Scholarship is a transformative opportunity for female business leaders and QUT Business School alumni with a background in rural and regional Australia. This prestigious award provides $25,000 to support your participation in an international leadership course. Applications close 31 October 2024 |
In 2025, QUT Entrepreneurship will introduce Innovation Arena, a certified, structured program built around MIT's 24 Steps of Disciplined Entrepreneurship. By equipping participants with practical skills to develop new products and services—whether launching a new venture or as an entrepreneur—Innovation Arena is driving change within organisations.
The Innovation Arena program will be delivered over two 15-week modules, INITIATE and EXECUTE! |
Remember that there are tools and resources available to you as an alumnus. Make the most of your connection to QUT by requesting academic records, parchments, and qualification verifications directly through our website. |
|
|
*The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the guest editor. |
|
|
|
Address 2 George Street
QUT Gardens Point Brisbane QLD 4000 |
| |
|
QUT acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands where QUT now stands. |
|
| |