Dr Niraj (Nij) Lal just loves science—he’s practically obsessed. He did a PhD in it at the University of Cambridge in 2012 and in 2016 was named one of the ABC’s Top 5 Scientists under 40.

Vanessa Gale has over 20 years’ experience in the early childhood sector. She has held several key roles, including educator, senior policy officer and manager of the investigations team for a regulatory authority.

Karen Turner is an education lecturer and early childhood consultant. She works as a pedagogical mentor at two Melbourne-based services that have been rated as ‘Exceeding the National Quality Standard’ in all areas by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).

Toni Christie is the Director of the Childspace Early Childhood Institute in Wellington, New Zealand. She is passionate about early childhood education, leadership, environments, infants, teamwork, communication and advocacy for children, families and early childhood educators. Toni holds a Master of Education degree from Victoria University in Wellington.

Robin Christie is an experienced early childhood teacher and art school dropout, which turned out to be a pretty good combination for his current role as a designer of functional, beautiful and empowering learning spaces for young children. Robin is passionate about creativity in the early years, the importance of positive, risk-taking play and encouraging more men to become early childhood educators.

Dr Kathryn Hopps is an early childhood educator, researcher and consultant. She has a practitioner background, having worked in a diverse range of education settings, including centre-based and mobile services, family day care, schools and school-age care.

Emeritus Professor Sue Dockett retired from Charles Sturt University and was awarded her honorary title in 2018. She remains active in the field of early childhood education research, as a Director of Peridot Education Pty Ltd

Emeritus Professor Bob Perry retired from Charles Sturt University and was awarded his honorary title in 2002, after 45 years of teaching and research, and is now a Director of Peridot Education Pty Ltd.

Jessica Staines is an early childhood educator, professional speaker, author, advocate and advisor. As the founder and director of Koori Curriculum, Jessica is committed to helping educators embed Aboriginal perspectives into early childhood education.