Panel | The women leading from intent to impact

19 Aug 2026
WAFA | Meeting Room 210

In this panel discussion, we share the experiences of women who have pushed the system, and turned intent into practical impact. The discussion will focus on what these change makers did, how they did it, who they brought with them, and why their approach made a difference.

Across different experiences, sectors, and career stages, the session will highlight the many ways leaders can shape change - whether by improving systems, challenging them, or building something entirely new.
 

Chairperson
Melinda McDonald
Melinda McDonald, President, WAFA
Speakers
Lori Moore-Merrell
Dr Lori Moore-Merrell, Former U.S. Fire Administrator / Tech Advisor, Lori Moore-Merrell & Associates
Chloe Hosking
Chloe Hosking, Olympian, lawyer and entrepreneur
Mariska Hawke
Mariska Hawke, Group Officer, South Australian Country Fire Service
Genevieve Rueger
Genevieve Rueger, Career Firefighter, Metropolitan Fire Service South Australia