UTS Young Alumni present: Non-Linear Paths to Success
WHEN
19 August 2026
Wednesday
6.30pm - 8.30pm Australia/Sydney
WHERE
Building 2
COST
Free admission
Free
If you’re in your 20s or 30s and feeling like your career path looks different from those around you, you’re not alone.
At Non-Linear Paths to Success, hear from successful UTS graduates as they share the real decisions, challenges and pivots that have shaped their professional journeys.
If you’re worried about what the future of work looks like, this event will offer insights into how to stay adaptable and future-proof your career in a complex world.
Learn from Australia’s most famous hip-hop journalist; a teacher turned Facilities manager at the Sydney Opera House; startup mentor-slash-cat café founder; and the TikTok star behind Chebbo’s Burgers.
From detours & confidence dips, to redefining success & backing yourself, get practical advice on building a thriving career!
This interactive session includes plenty of time for Q&A, so come ready to ask questions – and hear honest advice! Afterwards, join for FREE networking over drinks and canapes.
Don’t miss out – grab your free ticket now.
Guests are welcome!
Featured speakers
Ali Chebbani
UTS Bachelor of Business in Accounting
Ali graduated from UTS with a Bachelor of Accounting on the Co-op Scholarship, which got him working inside real businesses while he studied. That same year he started Chebbo's Burgers out of his driveway during the first COVID lockdowns. It's since grown into two shops, in Bexley and Marrickville, with its own systems, recipes and identity.
Simone Amelia Jordan
UTS Bachelor of Communication in Journalism
Simone Amelia Jordan is a Gadigal-based writer, essayist, and author, recognised as Australia’s most successful hip-hop journalist. Working at the intersection of culture, identity, and social justice, she has dedicated her career to amplifying underrepresented voices and mentoring emerging multicultural talent.
Changsoo Yu
Master of Teaching in Secondary Education
Thomas Derricot-Yap
Thomas Derricott-Yap is a startup coach, TEDx speaker, former entrepreneur, and co-author of the Amazon bestseller, Riding the Unicorn: The Startup Guide You'll Want to Read. Thomas co-founded Catmosphere Sydney, NSW's first dedicated cat café.