Inspire Conference 2025: A Kaleidoscope of Insights and Advocacy

Well, Inspire Conference 2025 certainly lived up to its name! The team at @Semann&Slattery did an incredible job creating a seamless and enriching experience for all attendees. From thought-provoking keynote speakers to insightful sessional presentations, the conference was a powerful space for learning, advocacy, and professional connection.

So many inspiring voices and powerful provocations left us challenged, motivated, and ready to resist the status quo in our work.

Key Takeaways from Inspire 2025

• Jane Vadiveloo reminded us that collectively, we can create an uprising—that supporting cultural identity is a crucial protective factor for children. She challenged us to reflect on creating environments where cultural shifting is not a constant expectation but rather a space where all identities are honoured and celebrated.

• Dr. Ariel Liddicut shared groundbreaking research on gender expansiveness, emphasizing the importance of embedding gender-sensitive language and approaches. Their insights reinforced that pride is a protective factor, reminding us of our responsibility to create truly inclusive spaces.

• Clare Comedoy provoked us to rethink photo documentation—its purpose, efficiency, and authenticity. How often do we take photos without truly considering their impact or necessity? Clare’s challenge encouraged a more intentional approach.

• Dr. Ben Mardel posed a powerful question: What do you want your school community to pay attention to? He encouraged us to consider the issues and questions that can hold joint attention with children, fostering curiosity, debate, and deep learning.

• Dr. Angela Molloy Murphy delivered a deeply respectful, thoughtful and, at times, shocking narrative (Elon Musk quote). She urged us to tell the truth, maintain and repair our world, and ensure that we create environments where we can all live as well as possible.

• Dr. Deborah Harcourt explored the rights of the child, inviting us to draw inspiration from diverse sources. She advocated for pedagogical kindness—not simply as an action within the curriculum, but as a foundational approach. She challenged us to thoughtfully uphold the UN Rights of the Child, take pedagogical risks, and resist the ‘circus of public opinion.’

• Nat and Rosan from Salamander Bay demonstrated what pedagogical kindness looks like in action. Their approach embraced an educator-first mindset before extending into community-based kindness projects that were authentic, meaningful, and transformative. Their work truly embodied a kaleidoscope of kindness.

Leading Transformation: The RECHARGES Model

I was honoured to present my session, Leading Transformation: Implementing the RECHARGES Model for Positive Change. A sincere thank you to everyone who attended—I hope you were inspired to rethink positive transformation within your space and advocate for adult wellbeing. Apologies to those who were turned away due to the session being full; I know that you would have found equal inspiration in the many other incredible sessions available.

Final Reflections

Inspire Conference 2025 was more than just a gathering of professionals—it was a space for deep reflection, shared learning, and powerful conversations. The energy, passion, and commitment to advocacy were palpable, and I left feeling both inspired and challenged to continue this work in meaningful ways.

To all the incredible educators, researchers, and advocates who made this experience so impactful—thank you. Until next time, let’s keep questioning, challenging, and leading with kindness.