Senior Chemist and Research Officer, Chem Centre

Dr. Kathryn Linge is an analytical chemist who has worked in government, industry, and academia for almost 20 years, with a focus on environmental and water research. Since 2018 she has worked at ChemCentre undertaking fundamental and applied research in the areas of mine pit lake remediation and dust source apportionment. She has also developed new expertise for ChemCentre in the areas of microplastic and nanoparticle characterisation and the use of isotopic ratio signatures for source identification and food adulteration. Between 2007 and 2018, she was a research academic at the Curtin Water Quality Research Centre, where she undertook research in drinking water and wastewater treatment.

Senior Technical Advisor – Water Quality, Water Corporation

Dr Kala Senathirajah, the 2023 WA Professional Engineer of the Year, is an enthusiastic water industry engineer with more than 20 years’ experience throughout the water supply cycle. Notably, she focuses on enhancing water security and quality through sustainable, place-based solutions. She has extensive experience locally and internationally, having worked with private sector, governments, NGOS and academia. Her PhD research centred on strategies to reduce and remove microplastics from water supplies. Committed to addressing the global plastic pollution crisis, Kala has made contributions to advancing understanding of plastic pollution and inspiring action. Kala is an active, long-term volunteer with Engineers Australia, and the Australian Water Association, sharing her expertise and passion for water management and environmental sustainability. Her commitment to professional development and knowledge exchange underscores her dedication to advancing the field and ensuring sustainable outcomes for all. Kala strongly believes in the pivotal role we can play in advocating for community well-being and the environment.

Environment Team Lead, Water Corporation

Dedicated and optimistic professional with 35 years of experience in technical, operational, academia and leadership roles across oil and gas, mining, biosecurity, water utility and education sectors. Experienced in leading programs with both commercial and environmental benefits, primarily with global companies and more recently a large-scale water utility. Adept at managing projects that bring business, academia, and governments together. Enjoy identifying opportunities and solutions that support complex development projects. Interested in building strategic partnerships with businesses, government agencies and NGO groups. Strong commitment to empower others to achieve environmental outcomes based on a broad range of experiences with a desire to support others by passing on relatable experiences whilst in the twilight phase of a meaningful career.

Corporate Trainer, Consultant, Leadership Coach and Lecturer

Dr Vish Ramakonar has over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, and has driven successful organizational change initiatives and spent the past decade as a corporate trainer, speaker, and NeuroChangeSolutions (NCS) consultant. She is part of a global network of corporate consultants trained by Dr. Joe Dispenza, where she applies the neuroscience of change to boost employee engagement, collaboration, creativity, productivity, and ultimately, business results, which are essential for driving sustainable outcomes. She is also a lecturer at Edith Cowan University’s School of Business and Law, and an ICF Certified Leadership coach. Dr. Ramakonar integrates neuroscientific strategies to help participants overcome psychological barriers. Her passion is to help transform organizations into thriving cultures by empowering every individual to shift mindsets and behaviours to lead from within through the "Change Your Mind Create New Results" program. This program aims to positively shift behaviors and mindsets—an approach that is especially critical in finding sustainable solutions beyond plastic. Her approach is designed to empower at all levels to lead with integrity, authenticity, and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for fostering a culture of sustainability. By incorporating neuroscientific insights, she can help both organisations and individuals understand the impact of their actions, which results in immediate organisational benefits but also on long-term sustainability goals, aligning with global movements towards a more sustainable future.