Vanessa McDonald

Lake Macquarie NSW

Bachelor of Business

Participating in the Mentor Support Network for the Hunter Region inspired Vanessa in more ways than one. In addition to receiving valuable advice on her own life choices, the proud Novocastrian decided to pay it forward and become a City Ambassador for Newcastle – a role that supports the creation of a world class smart city. As one of the inaugural student entrepreneurs of the Sydney School of Entrepreneurship, Vanessa believes that embracing collaboration and being inspired to motivate others are essential qualities for leadership, and that the smallest acts can offer great rewards. Vanessa continues to be involved in mentoring initiatives, drawing on her experience to help high school and fellow university students, and encourage others to be agents of change in their chosen field or community.

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.