Grammar Gazette- Issue 2, 2016

DR LAVINIA CODD (1986) Bachelor of Commerce — University of Queensland CA – Institute of Chartered Accountants Bachelor of Science — University of Queensland PhD (Neuroscience) — University of Queensland

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW AT THE QUEENSLAND BRAIN INSTITUTE

RESEARCHER

Lavinia’s research into investigating ways of improving recovery after stroke by stimulating the production of new brain cells is deeply personal, as she is also a stroke survivor. As a founding member of the S troke A dvisory B oard, Lavinia is determined her research will allow cognitive functions in stroke survivors to be restored. ‘I always found the robust discussions we had in English to be very interesting and enlightening. I think that these debates contributed in a very

concrete way to how I deal with others. Forming an opinion and committing to an idea was always supported; however, even more importantly, we were encouraged to listen to the views of others and be willing to change our minds. It would have been easy to give up following the stroke, but I loved my pre-stroke life and the only way I was going to regain my place was through my own endeavours. The Girls Grammar spirit isn’t to sit around waiting to be rescued.’

SARAH TESAR (2004)

Bachelor of Commerce — Monash University Bachelor of Laws (Honours) — Monash University Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice — Leo Cussen Centre for Law Masters in Public Policy — Harvard University

CORPORATE STRATEGY CONSULTANT

ADVISOR

Sarah is a Corporate Strategy Consultant at Advancy. She is a recent graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School where she received a Masters in Public Policy and was a PEO International Peace Scholar. Sarah also works with the International Trade Centre, a joint United Nations and World Trade Organisation agency to create greater income-earning opportunities for employees in emerging markets.

‘The strong academics, supportive environment and female empowerment offered at Girls Grammar were the perfect foundation and combination on which to build my professional career and personal values. My passion for business was sparked in my accounting class and I have since studied business from a variety of perspectives. I truly believe that business can be a greater force for good in the world and I want to dedicate my career to achieving this.’

RAYNUHA SINNATHAMBY (1987)

Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Law Masters in Business Administration

MANAGING DIRECTOR — SPRINGFIELD LAND CORPORATION

BUSINESS LEADER

Property Lawyer, Raynuha has been closely involved in the building of the greater Springfield City, the nation’s third fastest growing statistical local area. As part of her contribution to the property industry, Raynuha served as President of the Queensland Division of the Property Council of Australia and on the National Board of the Property Council of Australia. Raynuha also serves on the Premier’s Business Advisory Council.

‘My time at Girls Grammar taught me to deal with change. Having moved from Perth in late 1985, I joined Year 10 at Grammar. The girls were extremely welcoming and this assisted in m y transitioning to a new city and new school. Life presents many opportunities. If you are thinking about taking up an opportunity , never question your abilities. Once you say yes , you will rise to the opportunity. At least give yourself the chance to do so.’

Brisbane Girls Grammar School is developing profiles of our diverse alumni community to inspire current and future generations of Grammar girls. They can be viewed at www.bggs.qld.edu/alumni. If you would like to be involved or nominate a Grammar woman, please contact communications@bggs.qld.edu.au