Most of us have been impacted by sport in some way. It has the power to challenge, inspire, unite or divide us, but most importantly it can be a vehicle for human evolution. 

When I commenced as CEO of Paralympics Australia (PA), a colleague insisted that the Paralympic Movement would be transformative. She was right. My life has been shaped by sport in many ways but my experience with PA has been a career highlight. 

Soon, the world's best athletes will compete in Paris. We will watch as they push their bodies to the limit and hear stories of athletes who have overcome extreme adversity to reach Olympic level. It’s also where we will see the epitome of inclusion and accessibility, as every competitor receives equal opportunity.

Whilst I’ve recently stepped down from my role at PA, I know our team is ready and I’ll be cheering from Australia. PA has shipped 30,000 pieces of uniform, 500 jars of vegemite, 3,000 metres of strapping tape and 5,000 Caramello Koalas to Paris, and the Australian Paralympic team are on their way. As the Paralympic values of Brave, Tenacious, Limitless and Proud come to life in Paris, the message from our 170 Paralympians across 18 sports is simple - #ImagineWhatWeCanDo. 

In my extended article, I share more about my journey in sport and its impact on my life. In the articles that follow, you’ll hear from fellow alumni, academics, and current students, each sharing their leadership insights from the sporting world. 

Let’s continue to celebrate sport and its power to change us for good. 

Go Aussies!

Your guest editor,

Catherine Clark
Former CEO of Paralympics Australia
Bachelor of Arts (Justice Studies) QUT (Class of 1999)
QUT Outstanding Sports Alumnus (2022)

2021 Outstanding Sports Alumnus Bronwen Knox (Class of 2014, 2019 and 2020) brings 17 years' experience as a high-performance athlete and multiple QUT qualifications to her role with the Australian Olympic team. In this insightful Q&A, we were privileged to hear about her exciting career which exemplifies a dedication to excellence in sports and ethics. Bronwen gave insights into the sports industry, shared compelling leadership advice, highlighted some of her favourite sporting heroes, and expressed a resolute commitment to championing our champions.

Former Matildas' star, Elissia Carnavas (Class of 2010), has always been motivated by her love of sport and helping others. Her inspiring story shows the power of resilience and courageous reinvention after an injury took her off the field and onto QUT campus to study a Bachelor of Health Science. Elissia’s journey is one of true determination and heart, showing how we can turn setbacks into opportunities and continually chase our goals, even after the game.

Dr Kavita Gonsalves (Class of 2023) and Alex Ward (Class of 2011 and 2012), are esteemed QUT alumni who have both made significant strides in the field of architecture. The talented duo are Design Leads for global architecture company, Populous, whose awe-inspiring work shines on the world stage as their venues play host to thousands of global sporting events. Their stories reflect a blend of passion, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. In our Q&A with Kavita and Alex we uncovered the catalyst for their careers in this specialised field, how they integrate sustainable design principles into their work, and what’s next for the future of sports venue design.

> Learn how Kavita and Alex design award-winning sporting spaces...

Sport has always been a powerful global force and with exponential change shaping the industry, now is the ideal time to harness its potential. QUT's Graduate School of Business is pioneering a new micro-credentialed Sports Management course to help you get ahead of the game. FutureSports 360 is a dynamic 10-week masterclass that has been designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge and global networks for an impactful career in the industry. It addresses some of the multifaceted changes in the sector, and the significant economic and societal opportunities these present. Designed for professionals and enthusiasts alike, the course offers cutting-edge, transdisciplinary knowledge and industry practice, culminating in a global network of sports professionals. Do not miss this unique opportunity to learn more about the vibrant and evolving field of sports.

> Prof Kelly explains how to get ahead of the game with QUT's exciting new short course

After his final match at the Australian Open, John Millman jumped straight into the academic world, beginning his MBA just 12 hours later. Now, six months into his Executive MBA, he’s thriving and finding new purpose beyond tennis. 

John is the inaugural recipient of the QUT MBA and Executive MBA Scholarship for Paralympians and Olympians which helps elite athletes identify new career paths and gain new skills and credentials to help equip them for life after sport.

> Discover how John is paving his path post-tennis...

Congratulations and good luck to our QUT students and alumni who are about to complete in Paris for the 2024 Olympics! We will be cheering you on. 

> Find out who's heading from QUT to Paris...

The QUT Motorsport student club has just celebrated 20 years in operation, standing as a shining example of sporting innovation and real-world focus. The Club collaborates to design and fabricate Electric and Autonomous Formula race cars, and welcomes any QUT student with a passion for the industry. Team members participate in the Formula SAE-A competition, translating their academic knowledge into practical applications. This hands-on approach equips students with industry-relevant skills that many QUT alumni have used to gain exciting roles with renowned motorsport companies. The success of QUT Motorsport is driven by its longstanding corporate partnerships, and support from QUT who also provide support with funding, facilities, and valuable networking opportunities.

QUT Motorsport is a launchpad for future innovators and leaders. Through its real-world applications, industry partnerships, and comprehensive skill development, members gain essential skills to excel in their careers and drive the future of engineering and technology.