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Keynote Speakers

Meet the keynote speakers bringing research, insight, and practical strategies to this year’s Educating Girls Symposium - Melbourne on 20 April 2026.

Drawing on research and professional practice, they will offer insights into how girls learn, build confidence, and navigate an increasingly complex world.

Their sessions invite you to reflect, connect with colleagues, and bring new thinking back to your school.

Registration closed


 

Dr Jodie Lowinger

Led by Dr Jodie Lowinger, this session draws on her evidence-based Mind Strength Method, recognised as one of The Australian’s “50 Australian Inventions Changing the World”, bringing deep expertise and real-world impact to supporting young people and school communities. Focused on empowering girls to move beyond merely coping to truly thriving, the session equips teachers with practical tools to reframe anxiety, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome as opportunities for growth, while strengthening students’ emotional intelligence and self-belief. Grounded in Dr Jodie’s extensive work with schools, educators, and families, the session also emphasises the importance of creating supportive cultures where girls feel safe, seen, and valued. By prioritising connection, mindfulness, and values-based relationships, it ensures every girl develops the emotional and psychological skills needed to lead, collaborate, and succeed.

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Dr Mark Williams

Dr Williams will explore innovative approaches to girls’ education by integrating the latest findings in neuroscience. It highlights the importance of understanding neuroplasticity, memory formation, and attention to develop effective brain-based learning strategies. The session offers practical, evidence-based methods that not only boost academic achievement but also nurture emotional well-being, ensuring girls can thrive both intellectually and personally. Attendees will gain actionable insights into fostering deep understanding, focus, and resilience in adolescent girls, setting the foundation for future-ready leaders. By examining how high-performance, innovation, and communication skills can be developed in girls’ schools, the keynote aims to empower educators to create supportive environments where young women grow into confident, capable, and collaborative individuals, prepared to navigate the demands of a rapidly changing, connected world.

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Dr Stephen Holmes

Dr. Holmes is a globally recognized education strategist and co-founder of the 5Rs Partnership, specializing in institutional strategy, reputation development, and sustainable school growth. Over three decades, he has led more than 600 research and strategy projects for schools and colleges across every continent, helping institutions strengthen their positioning in increasingly competitive education markets. Known for his evidence-based approach, Dr. Holmes combines research, consulting, and teaching to support schools in aligning their strategy, programs, and resources for long-term success. He is also the only full-time education consultant with a PhD focused specifically on education reputation and is widely sought after as a speaker and advisor to schools worldwide.

Read More about Dr Stephen Holmes