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Dhakshayini Sooriyakumaran

Director of Technology Policy at Reset Australia

Professional Background

Dhakshayini Sooriyakumaran is a highly accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in the intersection of technology policy, human rights, and social impact. Currently serving as the Director of Technology Policy at Reset Australia, Dhakshayini leverages her extensive knowledge and expertise to advocate for responsible technology usage, especially in safeguarding human rights. Her career trajectory is marked by her diverse roles in various organizations, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to public service and sustainability.

Before landing in her current role, Dhakshayini made a significant impact as a PhD Candidate at The Australian National University, where she delved into crucial topics that merge technology and social policy. Her academic journey provided her with a strong foundation to analyze complex societal issues and seek sustainable solutions. She has also previously held the prestigious position of Human Rights Director and Co-Director of The Migration Project at the Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR). In this capacity, she championed the cause of migrants and advocated for ethical corporate practices that consider the well-being of all individuals.

Aside from her focus on human rights and technology policy, Dhakshayini has also demonstrated exceptional skills in service design and project management. As a Senior Service Designer at RMIT University, she contributed to enhancing user experiences through innovative design solutions. Her leadership was further exemplified during her tenure as Director of YLab at The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA), where she played a pivotal role in fostering youth engagement and leadership.

Throughout her career, Dhakshayini has worked on numerous initiatives that emphasized sustainability and resilience. Her experience as a Disaster Risk Reduction Officer at the United Nations and as a Climate Change and Sustainability Consultant at Sinclair Knight Merz highlights her commitment to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. In these roles, she collaborated with stakeholders to mitigate risks and promote sustainable practices.

In earlier stages of her career, Dhakshayini honed her technical skills as a Civil Engineer at Meinhardt and further developed her strategic thinking capabilities as a Strategy Consultant at Small Giants (Australia). She also worked as an Associate at Net Balance, where she gained valuable insights into corporate responsibility and ethical business practices. Her early experiences provided her a strong technical foundation that complements her later focus on social impact and policy advocacy.

Education and Achievements

Dhakshayini Sooriyakumaran's educational background reflects her dedication to fostering social change through knowledge. She has studied GCSI, Social Impact at Melbourne Business School, equipping her with advanced insights into creating measurable social benefits through innovative strategies. This academic pursuit complements her earlier educational achievements—holding a BE in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Planning & Design from Melbourne University. These degrees have provided her with an analytical and strategic mindset essential for her roles in engineering, planning, and policy advocacy.

Her pursuit of higher education exemplifies her commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of societal challenges, positioning her as a thought leader in her field. Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dhakshayini has continually sought opportunities for growth and learning, reflecting her dedication to lifelong education and improvement.

Achievements

  • Director of Technology Policy at Reset Australia: In her current role, Dhakshayini leads initiatives to formulate effective technology policies that not only harness the benefits of technological advancements but also ensure the protection of human rights.
  • PhD Candidate at The Australian National University: Conducting research that explores the connections between technology and social policy, enabling her to contribute academically to relevant discussions in her field.
  • Human Rights Director/Co-Director at ACCR: Focused on improving the rights and conditions of vulnerable populations, demonstrating her passion for advocacy in social justice.
  • Director YLab at FYA: Empowering young Australians by creating programs that develop leadership skills and encourage civic engagement.
  • Senior Service Designer at RMIT University: Enhancing service frameworks and user experiences, showcasing her innovative approach to problem-solving.
  • Disaster Risk Reduction Officer at the United Nations: Working on global initiatives to address risks and promote sustainable practices in disaster-prone regions.
  • Climate Change and Sustainability Consultant at Sinclair Knight Merz: Contributing to climate solutions and consulting on sustainability practices, underscoring her expertise in navigating pressing environmental issues.

Dhakshayini's multifaceted career, grounded in a solid educational foundation and enriched by extensive professional experiences, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to addressing complex global challenges. Her work in technology policy, human rights, and sustainability positions her as a key player in fostering positive change in communities and organizations alike.

Related Questions

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Dhakshayini Sooriyakumaran
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Location

Greater Melbourne Area