"UTS sparked a belief in me that science and culture could shape the future together. It was where I first imagined using technology to amplify Indigenous knowledge—and that vision became the foundation of Indigital."
Mikaela Jade
Bachelor of Science (Environmental Biology), 2004
Mikaela Jade is a proud Cabrogal woman of the Dharug-speaking nation and the founder and CEO of Indigital, an Economic and Social Futures Company.
Under Mikaela’s leadership, Indigital has brought together a diverse team of technologists, teachers, innovators, systems thinkers, lawyers, social researchers, biologists, engagement experts, and cultural leaders to drive transformative systems change.
Indigital translates between worlds to create one community that shares in success. They guide corporates and Indigenous communities in Australia to build meaningful, sustainable partnerships. By creating spaces of connection - where everyone feels valued and Indigenous knowledge leads - they enable communities to set their own direction and they work with an eco-system of partners to deliver.
The outcomes are strong opportunities for all connected to Country; futures enriched through new skills, technologies, industries; and pathways that create lasting economic, social, and environmental value.
Mikaela’s work has earned her a place on The Australian’s Top 100 Innovators list, the title of 2021 Indigenous Leader of the Year at the Women in Digital Awards, and recognition as one of the Schwab Foundation’s 2022 Social Innovators of the Year.
Mikaela has spoken at the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, advocating for Indigenous voices to shape the future of technology. She has been instrumental in delivering on the national science and research priorities by elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander knowledges and she was an advisor on the diversity in STEM review.
She holds a Master of Applied Cybernetics from the Australian National University and has deepened her expertise in social entrepreneurship, power, and leadership at Harvard.
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Ben Newsome
After graduating with a degree in environmental biology, Ben’s love of nature and the outdoors propelled him into bush regeneration.
Julie McCrossin
Julie McCrossin has built an admirable career out of talking to people and stimulating thought-provoking conversations about things that matter.
Clarence Slockee
UTS provided the foundation for Clarence’s success and helped sow the seeds of his work, exposing him to the business skills and frameworks that helped him...
Mayrah Sonter
Mayrah Sonter is a proud Wiradjuri woman who has forged a successful career as a communications specialist, events producer and journalist, driven by her...