The internet means sharing and connecting through social media is a great way to source and receive information about happenings in the wider world.

Technology has transformed since my first professional job, as an ABC rural reporter back when we used manual typewriters, nagra reel-to-reel recorders, and telex machines. Eek, that’s ages ago!

With age comes knowledge and experience though, and that’s why I enjoy being part of the QUT Career Mentor Scheme to pass-on some of my hard won lessons to help kick-start another’s work-life journey.

Reflecting on what you enjoy doing, what your core values are, what you feel passionate about and how that align with your skills and qualifications sounds simple – yet it can take a lifetime to get them singing in tune.

I enjoy variety and my career journey has evolved from agricultural scientist to journalist, sub editor, editor, designer, advocate, media advisor, board member, MC, communications manager, upcycler … which has provided lots of experience and insight.

It was great to converse with my mentee last night, find out his interests and goals, and sow seeds for him to envision a worthwhile and satisfying future. If you have wisdom to offer the next generation then coordinator of QUT’s Career Mentor Scheme Diana McCluskey, photographed with me in Sew 120 last night, would love to hear from you.

Sometimes it only takes a small thing to make something work better, as is the case with Sew 120. The straight skirt I made a while ago from lycra fabric sourced at a Melbourne market but hadn’t worn much because it didn’t seem to go with anything in my wardrobe. I found this jacket in an op shop, hand-washed it (ignoring dryclean only label) and used the spare button to adjust the front fitting so it worked better with my body shape. Scrubs up OK I think.