The Changemakers
Ashleigh Sheridan
Founder and Managing Director
Described as a thought leader that “drives innovation” in sustainability and social impact, Ikigai Co’s Founder and Managing Director, Ashleigh, brings an extraordinary skillset as well as frontline experience in implementing community-based programs in Africa, South-East Asia, the United Kingdom and Australia. She’s worked with internationally recognised companies to enable them to efficiently harness their capabilities across the globe in a way that enhances business results and the planet. And does it all with warmth, vivacity, and deep respect for diverse cultures and environments all over the world.
Grounded in the belief that we are in a time where driving financial results must be intrinsically linked to the ability to drive positive change, she has an experiential understanding of how to ensure business growth and social and environmental outcomes are intertwined.
She’s a collaborator, she operates with integrity, and she has a unique ability to think laterally while designing and applying solutions. Her understanding of corporate requirements has made her results focused and she has developed a unique and highly sort after ability she calls “business-centric”, which allows her to efficiently assess complex social and environmental challenges, and develop solutions that bridge the gap between the current corporate and not-for-profit models.
She’s here to inspire change, elevate exisiting capabilities, and help you build the roadmap to a more sustainable future.
Kym McCarthy
Lawyer and B Consultant
Kym is one of the trusted associates. A dynamic lawyer specialising in sustainability and trained B Consultant, blending a passion for sustainability with her unique experiences across Australia, Europe, and the Middle East. Starting her professional journey in Tasmania, Kym honed her legal expertise at small local firms, where she developed a deep commitment to community-focused practices.
Her adventurous spirit and commitment to making a difference led her abroad, where she thrived in a diverse array of roles and industries. Always keen to take on a challenge, Kym’s experiences have included working with the United Nations in New York, advising the Army on the laws of armed conflict in Afghanistan and the special forces in Iraq—where she mastered the art of calm under pressure. She is equally comfortable navigating the bustling halls of large corporations and the intimate settings of small businesses. Whether tackling complex legal issues or brainstorming innovative solutions, Kym thrives in high-stakes environments, bringing a refreshing perspective and a dash of humour to even the toughest challenges.
With her unique blend of experience, charisma, and passion, Kym is not just a lawyer; she’s committed to creating a sustainable future, inspiring others to think sustainably and act boldly.
Kym is the Founder of Audacieux
Brian Moran
Digital Innovation Consultant
Brian is a trusted associate with a career background spent in the UK and Australia spanning digital strategy, business transformation, product development, and go-to-market execution.
An independent consultant for more than 10 years, Brian has provided trusted advisory services and fractional leadership support across a range of industries.
Experienced at navigating business domains of all shapes and sizes - from founder-led startups, not for profit and social enterprises, through to mid-tier and ASX listed companies - Brian has also served on the governance Board of multiple charities gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing organisations working in social impact.
Brian’s focus is on digital innovation and its capacity to drive the sustainability agenda including data capture and analysis, process automation and ways of working, and development of digital products and services.
Leading with curiosity and empathy, Brian brings a fresh approach which is designed to engage with all levels within the organisation and help rewire thinking about what a sustainable future looks like.
Caitlin McGrath
Social Impact Consultant
Caitlin is a dedicated and results-driven not-for-profit strategist and international development executive. With 15 years experience in the for-purpose sector, Cailtin has a proven track record of providing strategic advice, designing impactful programs, and nurturing strategic partnerships.
Caitlin specialises in international and community development programs, fundraising, MEL, capacity building and governance and risk. Caitlin has extensive Not-For-Profit board experience, which she relies upon to partner with clients to develop or enhance their revenue model and enable strategic systems change.Caitlin supports her clients to design and achieve governance systems that prepare them for DFAT grant funding eligibility and ACFID code compliance.
A winner of the 2018 Waislitz Global Citizen Youth Innovation award at the Global Citizen Festival in New York and regular guest speaker at the United Nations Food Security Conventions, Caitlin brings not just a passion for, but extensive experience in the philanthropic sector.