Dr Johanna Einfalt is a Lecturer in English, Literacy, Curriculum and Pedagogy at Western Sydney University. Her research focus includes dialogic pedagogy, EAL/D learners, Internationalisation-at-Home, developing intercultural competence and pre-service teacher education instruction. She has worked in a range of schools and universities in Australia. Johanna’s PhD investigated promoting critical thinking and communication skills using dialogic interaction as a pedagogy in a purpose-built internationalisation-at-home program. For this, she was awarded an Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Award at Queensland University of Technology. In 2012, she received a national Citation Award for co-designing a collaborative assessment support model.

Dr Claire Galea is the Head of Research at United Way Australia and has over 30 years’ experience as a statistician. Claire has a passion for revealing the story that data can yield as a powerful narrative tool supporting her desire to showcase positive change for children throughout the globe.

Ashley McPherson is a passionate educator with experience as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, Principal Education Officer, Assistant Principal and now a Principal of a primary school in Southern Tasmania. Ashley is deeply committed to improving literacy outcomes for students, supporting families to develop their skills and understanding for how best to support their child, as well as advocating for positive educational outcomes throughout the wider community. Ashley is the Tasmanian State Director for the Australian Literacy Educators’ Association (ALEA), Director for Rosie’s Reading Tasmania and member of the Early Years Living Lab (CoLab) with the University of Tasmania (UTAS).

Jo is an experienced Early Childhood Teacher and Educational Leader at the Excellent-rated Evelyn Scott Preschool, bringing over 25 years of teaching experience across Australia and internationally. As a founding member of the preschool team in 2021, she helped establish a culture inspired by Reggio Emilia principles, where children, families, and communities are active partners in learning. Jo contributes to the broader sector through professional presentations on pedagogy, leadership, and the evolving role of play. She recently completed her Master of Early Childhood at Macquarie University, further deepening a career grounded in reflection, research, and continuous professional growth.