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24 – 26 SEP  |  QT GOLD COAST

Speakers & Special Guests

Sam Valich

Sam Valich

Sam is a cherished part of the CMAA community and for over 20 years has worked with executive teams to create Band-Led Organisations. “In a brand-led organisation, your brand is not just a marketing tool or visual identity; it's the driving force behind every aspect of your organisation... your purpose, mission, values, promise, and personality… It’s a compass, guiding strategic decisions, product development, customer experiences, culture, and employee behaviour. It's not only about selling…but creating connections with customers and stakeholders based on shared trust, values, and experiences."

Bridey Drake

Bridey Drake

Bridey and her business partner run a highly successful PJ company called Night Sweet Thing (launched in 2019). Bridey is a renowned content creator, with an extensive social media following: 1.7m on Instagram, 2.8m on TikTok and 1.76m on YouTube. We can’t wait to hear what Bridey has to teach us about producing content and engaging an audience.

Svrcina

Svrcina

SVRCINA (Sur-Cee-Nah) is one of pop music’s fast rising stars, with her songs totalling over 30 million streams on Spotify alone. With not only her own releases but many collaborations to her name, SVRCINA’s goal is to create music that is culturally transcendent. Experimentation with sounds, mixtures of musical elements with cultural personality traits, influenced by faith and current events, SVRCINA is carving out a niche that music lovers around the world will embrace. SVRCINA is a passionate artist and worshipper, and we are thrilled to host her at CONNECT24.

Luke Weston

Luke Weston

Luke Weston is a well-loved friend from across the pond, where he is recognised for his outstanding work as the Content Director at Rhema Media, New Zealand. Back by popular demand, Luke will be one of our hosts at this year’s CONNECT, and will also be contributing to, and hosting, panels. Welcome back Luke!

Shekeinah Hill

Shekeinah Hill

Shekeinah is originally from Florida, USA but has lived in Australia for the past 12 years. She is a Pastor at Hillsong Church on the creative team, where she has held a large variety of leadership roles, including overseeing the vocal team and creative moments. She is an accomplished TV and online presenter and voice artist, and we’re thrilled to welcome her as MC and host for this year’s CONNECT conference, alongside Luke Weston. An American and a New Zealander – what could possibly go wrong?

Chico Johnson

Chico Johnson

Chico is an accomplished musician and artist, with a huge heart for young people. His initiative, The East G Project, was launched in five schools throughout East Gippsland in 2023, tackling the rapid decline of mental health in drought and fire affected areas, empowering youth with self-expression through the art of music, film, motivational speaking and songwriting workshops.

Petra Bagust

Petra Bagust

“I talk for a living, that came naturally, now I listen as well – it’s an excellent development. Whether it is emceeing live events, presenting on TV or radio, or one on one get togethers for media chaplaincy - people are my jam. I really love them…I'll never stop sharing the love and being curious. Ka pai” – Petra Bagust. Petra is a TV presenter, radio host, podcaster and media chaplain, perhaps best known as co-presenter of TVNZ’s morning show, Breakfast. We’re thrilled to have Petra join us for CONNECT24.

Danielle McAlpine Johnson

Danielle McAlpine Johnson

Danielle McAlpine Johnson is an award-winning Writer, Director and Producer, creating documentary, film and TV as a catalyst for change in the social justice landscape. Passionate about issues of injustice and sharing stories of the human heart, Danielle loves to connect with people to draw out the unique heartbeat of every story. With her husband, singer Chico Johnson, Danielle is the Co-Founder of CheekyMac Productions, with docos currently broadcasting on Network Ten Australia, GOOD TV, Foxtel, Ozflix, as well as in the Netherlands, the Middle East and Africa.

Clare Steele

Clare Steele

Following a successful business career, Clare has worked for over a decade in Christian ministry, focusing on strategic leadership that enables churches to better serve their communities. She studied Engineering in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering at the University of Western Sydney as well as Master of Divinity through Sydney Missionary and Bible College. As Compassion Australia CEO, she is excited to see churches and Christians around the world empowered to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name. We are thrilled to have Clare with us, contributing to CONNECT24.

Sharon Callister

Sharon Callister

Sharon is a CEO with over 15 years’ experience managing large and diverse organisations in Australia and overseas. She holds a Graduate Diploma from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor Degree in Health Administration and is a Registered Nurse. Sharon is the CEO of Mission Australia, and we are excited to hear her wisdom and input at CONNECT24.

Melissa Lipsett

Melissa Lipsett

Melissa is an experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organisation management industry. She is a strong professional and servant leader, playing active roles in governance across the church and for purpose Christian sector. She holds a Bachelor of Ministry and a Bachelor of Applied Science, and is also a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Melissa is the CEO of Baptist World Aid Australia, and we are grateful for her presence and wisdom at CONNECT24.

Murray Norman

Murray Norman

Murray Norman is CEO of Better Balanced Futures and Faith NSW and for many years, with his wife Rachel, has worked with SRE - scripture in schools. Murray is routinely meeting with government to represent faith communities on key legislative issues – including current discussions on gender, equality, and religious discrimination. He is highly respected across all levels of government, and played a key role in connecting faith communities with government during COVID so that faith communities could re-open for services. It is a pleasure to have Murray at CONNECT24.

Tarryn Stokes

Tarryn Stokes

Vocalist Tarryn Stokes has worked in the music industry for many years but rose to national prominence in 2023 as winner of Channel 7’s ‘The Voice’, taking home $100,000 and a record label deal with Universal. In 2024 she has toured Australia as support act with For King + Country. Tarryn also teaches, songwrites and sings Christian worship and we’re honoured to have her as a feature artist for CONNECT24.

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