Our Committee
Meet our committee
At Gen Collective, our dedicated volunteer committee members play a key role in shaping our community. They bring together local professionals who are passionate about building connections, sharing experiences, and making a positive impact.
Their focus is on bringing people together and supporting each other's journey, both personally and professionally.
They are integral to creating and curating impactful networking events and initiatives that focus on creating real opportunities for growth, collaboration, and making meaningful connections.
Their focus is on bringing people together and supporting each other's journey, both personally and professionally.
President
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Adrienne Donnelly is a Virtual Personal Assistant who calls Newcastle home. Adrienne started her business, Organised by Adrienne, in 2016 when she saw a need for all round support for small business owners.
Adrienne has a team of specialists that work with her on projects including virtual assistants, graphic designers, photographers, videographers, copy writers, website developers and editors.
Adrienne is also the co-founder of the Newcastle Virtual Assistant Network, a group of over 250 other local Virtual Assistants.
In 2024 Adrienne acquired the Seed Virtual Assistants company - a national wide community of VAs. Through this business she offers training and mentoring to new and established VA business owners.
Adrienne's career previously included roles in Human Resources, Recruitment, Office Admin and Operation Management.
When she isn't working, you can find Adrienne enjoying a sunrise walk at Merewether or exploring the newest bar around town with her friends.
Vice President
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Amy-Lea Pettigrew is passionate about turning ideas into impactful experiences. As a Design Professional, Events Specialist, and Fundraising Advocate, she has over a decade of experience leading creative projects as the Creative Director at Pettigrew Family Funerals. Her expertise includes interiors, graphic design, and event management, with a focus on strategic planning, project management, and fostering strong partnerships.
Beyond her family business, Amy-Lea is dedicated to supporting not-for-profit organisations and community initiatives. Besides Vice President of Gen Collective, she serves as a Foundation Member and Chair of Events for Hunter Medical Research Institute and an Ambassador for Lifeline Hunter and Central Coast. Her work reflects a thoughtful approach to combining creativity with purpose.
Treasurer
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Katelyn is a Manager with the Insolvency and Restructuring team at PKF Newcastle.
In her day-to-day role, Katelyn faces everything from fast-paced, complex legal proceedings, to disgruntled shareholders and creditors, to emotional former employees of organisations that have become insolvent. Her daily life is a mix of approaching situations with empathy, resilience, practicality, and genuine interest, all polished with the professionalism that makes her great at her job.
When you ask Katelyn why she chose accounting, she says that it provided a continual avenue for learning and growth. That growth has led her to the Gen Collective Committee, where she provides input and offers the professionals of the Hunter a safe environment to meet and make valuable connections that turn into rich professional relationships.
For Katelyn, keeping her cup full means not only being Mum to the gorgeous Ethan but, also embracing her work life and allowing herself to enjoy both without guilt.
Secretary
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Brodey Corbett is truly a marketing unicorn. Her extensive experience in the communication sector has seen her in various roles – from content creation to media relations, event management, marketing strategy, and campaigns, and many more.
She is currently Social Media & Content Manager at Buildcert and is well-versed in the world of communication, with a real knack for making anything newsworthy.
One of the key things that Brodey embraces is giving back to the community she works and lives in. It has been instilled in her from the start of her career and she is proud to have volunteered with Got Your Back Sista, Mentor Support Network, Surfest Women's Pro Event, and now at Gen Collective
Many say she's a social butterfly at heart and Brodey often gets asked when she has time to sleep. When she’s not creating killer content, you can find her out and about with friends, family, and her partner. She loves discovering new local bars and restaurants or spending days in the sun at the beach.
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Darcy is an experienced mortgage broker passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their property goals. With a strong background in finance and a client-focused approach, Darcy is dedicated to making the lending process seamless and stress-free. Darcy joined the Gen Collective committee in 2021 and is committed to fostering connections and supporting professional growth within the community. Outside of work, Darcy enjoys staying active through netball and appreciates the sense of community the sport provides.
Committee Member
Committee Member
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Hi, my name is Alex Beal. I am an Associate working at Hicksons Lawyers here in Newcastle. I specialise in workplace relations, employment and safety matters.
I joined the Gen Collective Committee in October 2023. I am originally from New Zealand and I was keen to explore opportunities to further my network in Newcastle and get involved in planning some exciting networking events in the region. Little did I know I would be joining a powerhouse committee of dynamic women doing some pretty incredible things!
I am passionate about working with employers and individuals to solve the many challenges they face in the workplace. I have a particular interest in disputed Fair Work matters (unfair dismissals and the like), workplace health and safety (both physical and psychosocial safety) and modern slavery laws.
In my spare time you can find me down at my local rowing club, running (or attempting to) somewhere near the beach or camping in one of the many beautiful spots in NSW.
I couldn’t recommend attending the Gen Collective events enough – the events offer a range of opportunities for professional development and to build your network in a welcoming environment.
I look forward to seeing you at the next event!
Committee Member
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Ellen has over a decade of experience in branding, corporate communications, design, marketing, and events and a strong passion for creativity. In 2022, she joined the not-for-profit organisation HVTC as the Group Marketing and Communications Manager. In this role, she leveraged her expertise to rebrand the organisation’s 40-year brand and develop the Zeal Futures brand whilst maintaining its legacy and guiding the strategic direction of its marketing and communications initiatives.
Ellen is a committee member of the Lake Macquarie Women in Business Network and previously worked at Lake Macquarie City Council. Ellen holds a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design and an MBA specialisation in Marketing, both from the University of Newcastle.
Committee Member
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As a Consultant at Beilby Downing Teal, one of Australia’s largest providers of executive search, professional recruitment and contracting services, I help source talented individuals and connect them with thriving organisations across various industries. With a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and Leadership and Management, a Diploma of Leadership and Management, and a Certificate IV in WHS, I have the credentials and competencies to deliver personalised and effective recruitment solutions.
I have been in the recruitment industry for over four years, specialising in executive, permanent, and temporary placements. I am passionate about building long-term relationships with candidates and clients, understanding their goals and aspirations, and matching them with the best opportunities and fit. My mission is to become your career partner and help you find your dream role or top-tier candidate.
Committee Member
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Jordyn Ode is a Buyers Advocate at Keepr Property Co, a licensed real estate agent, and an off-market specialist with over 11 years of experience in the industry. She is passionate about connecting with people, inspiring them to achieve their goals, and guiding them through one of life's biggest decisions: buying a property.
At Keepr Property Co, Jordyn leverages her local expertise, strategic thinking, and communication skills to tailor-made strategies for her clients, who are mainly owner-occupiers looking for a place to call home. She also has valuable experience in property management & real estate sales, which enhances her real estate knowledge and service quality. Jordyn is driven by integrity, honesty, and energy for life, and she collaborates with a team of professionals who share her ethos and vision. She is always learning, improving, and exceeding expectations in her field.
Committee Member
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Kate graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2012 and has spent 12 years working in HR and Marketing in the not-for-profit and private sectors. In 2024 she left the corporate world to follow her passion in working on community projects for the Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network.
Kate is studying her Masters in Counselling so she can help more people struggling with their mental health. She lives in Newcastle with her partner and their son. In her spare time she produces two podcasts and plays cricket on the weekend.
Committee Member
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Myf is a purpose-led Lifestyle & Architecture Photographer based in Newcastle. She captures moments as they transpire to communicate a soft, natural mood through candid imagery. She works discreetly to explore those in-between moments to create rich, intentional imagery. She loves partnering with local go-getters who have a deep desire to make a difference in their world, the world around them, and beyond.
As a process-driven creative, she showcases the good work of architects, designers, and purpose-led businesses through photography and design thinking. Her focus is on simple construction, responsible sourcing, and authentic storytelling. Her talent lies in understanding my client’s unique vision and guiding them through a process of thoughtful design.
Committee Member
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Michelle is a leadership and wellbeing coach and facilitator with a generalist HR background.
Dedicated to enhancing employee experience, personal development, psychological well being, and self-awareness, Michelle firmly believes that focusing on these areas can foster inclusivity, safety, and next-generation development.
Committee Member
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Sarah Hovanyecz
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Tamara, also known as TJ, is an accomplished Executive Officer with over 20 years of administrative experience, currently applying her expertise at Newcastle Airport. A proud graduate of the EA Institute's Certified High Performing Executive Assistant (CHPEA) program, she brings extensive knowledge in high-level executive support, team leadership, and office management. With a proven track record spanning 16 years, including 5 years as Executive Assistant to the CEO at Newcastle Airport, TJ excels in providing exceptional support to senior executives and management teams.
As the founder of EA Network Newcastle and Hunter, she is a passionate advocate for mental health, serving as a Mental Health First Aider and an active member of Mentor Walks Newcastle and the Hunter Business Women’s Network.
Outside of work, family is her top priority, where she finds her joy and recharge. TJ is also a proud ‘Glama’ to 18-month-old Bohdi and enjoys spending time with her two cats, Mario and Peach. She loves nature, especially walking by the water.
Committee Member
Committee Member
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Tasha Wolodko-Kouril is an experienced solicitor based in Newcastle with over 9 years in the legal profession. Tasha practices in commercial litigation, with a focus on building and construction disputes and debt recovery. In 2023, she became the first woman in Newcastle, the Hunter Valley and the Central Coast to become an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation.
Passionate about helping clients avoid costly litigation, Tasha focuses on providing practical, timely legal advice to businesses and individuals, with an emphasis on achieving amicable resolutions.
Outside of work, Tasha enjoys spending time with her young family and unwinding with a glass of red wine – not always in that order. She is excited to bring her expertise and enthusiasm to the Gen Collective committee, supporting women in business and contributing to the local community.
Champions of networking in Newcastle
Interested in becoming part of our
volunteer committee?
Whether you want to learn more about how our committee operates or wish to join us as a volunteer, we’d love to hear from you.
Reach out to connect or express your interest in contributing to our mission of making networking a powerful tool for development in Newcastle and beyond. Our committee members are central to the success of our networking events and programs.
Our committee members are central to the success of our networking events and programs.
As a Gen Collective committee member you would help curate experiences designed to enhance both the personal and professional journeys of our attendees and guests, ensuring every interaction supports our members' goals.