(Fully booked) Breaking the Silence: Confronting Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome is a phenomenon affecting professionals across various industries which can significantly impact professionals’ career growth, mental health, and overall well-being. In the high-stakes, high-pressure world of turnaround and restructuring, young professionals are particularly vulnerable to these feelings. This panel discussion aims to shed light on Imposter Syndrome, explore its effects, and provide actionable strategies to overcome it.

Objectives

• To increase awareness and understanding of Imposter Syndrome among young professionals

• To provide a platform for open discussion and shared experiences

• To equip attendees with practical tools and strategies to combat feelings of inadequacy

• To foster a supportive community within the industry that encourages growth and mental well-being

The panel will be guided through a series of key questions and may be prompted to share insights into their professional backgrounds and experiences when facing the effects of Imposter Syndrome.

Thanks to our event sponsors, Hilco Capital and McGrathNicol.

Jen Martin

Associate Professor in Science Communication, University of Melbourne

Dr Jen Martin (@scidocmartin) worked as a field ecologist before founding the University of Melbourne’s Science Communication Teaching Program which teaches scientists across all disciplines to be engaging and effective communicators. She also practises what she preaches: she’s been talking about science weekly on 3RRR, Australia’s largest community radio station, for nearly 20 years, hosts podcasts including Let’s Talk SciComm, MCs events, teaches as part of the Homeward Bound Faculty, writes for a variety of publications and was named the 2019 Unsung Hero of Australian Science Communication. Her first book ‘Why Am I Like This? The Science Behind Your Weirdest Thoughts and Habits’, was published by Hardie Grant in 2024.

Emily Papas

Chief Financial Officer, Wittner Shoes

Emily Papas is the Chief Financial Officer of iconic Australian female footwear brand, Wittner Shoes. A Chartered Accountant that has worked in finance roles for over 16 years, Emily is a passionate leader that has experienced a broad range of businesses throughout the economic cycle. Emily has held a number of senior finance roles across the retail industry and brings a unique insight and perspective as a female Chief Financial Officer.

Nikki Tugano

Founder and CEO, SeenCulture

Nikki Tugano is the founder and CEO of SeenCulture, a data driven decision intelligence platform that enables people leaders to make faster, smarter and fairer talent decisions for promotions, performance/pay reviews, and team design. Drawing on her Masters in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology (MAPPCP), degrees in Commerce and Science and industry expertise in People and Culture, she’s extraordinarily passionate about shining a light on untapped potential to help people, teams and organisations perform at their best. She has also been recognised as Most Influential CEO in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 2023 in the CEO monthly magazine; a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year by Commbank’s Young Hero Awards 2023, a finalist for Startup of the Year 2023 by the Customer Show and has also been featured in SmartCompany, Business News Australia, the Startup Daily, and Overnight Success.