Celebrating the women in our leadership team

7 March 2023

To celebrate International Women’s Day in 2023, we are shining a light on some of the incredible women in our leadership team who leave an impact on our organisation and offer daily inspiration.

We spoke to Director of Foundation and Endowment Rachael Walsh, Director of Audience and Partnerships Lisa Summer-Hayes, Director of Health and Community Zara Gomes and our Executive Director Dilshani Weerasinghe about what it means to lead at one of Queensland's largest arts organisations and the opportunities we're creating for generations to come.

Rachael Walsh

Director of Foundation and Endowment

“Queensland Ballet had always enjoyed a long history of women in leadership, and today this continues with so many diverse, incredible and inspired women leading different departments in our company.”

Lisa Summer-Hayes

Director of Audience and Partnerships

“One thing that QB exemplifies, probably more than anywhere I’ve worked at is supporting working mothers. The flexibility that Queensland Ballet offers to mums to work remotely obviously using technology to stay connected is incredible.”

Zara Gomes

Director of Health and Community

“We can now balance our lives a little more effectively using digital technology and innovation. Improvements that have happened in recent years have really allowed our organisation to flourish and to give more flexibility and adaptability.”

Dilshani Weerasinghe

Executive Director

“When I think about my journey so far, which lands me here at Queensland Ballet, the biggest piece is that I’ve followed happiness. I know that I stand on the shoulders of many who have gone before me, who have paved the way for me to have choices, to speak my voice and to own my happiness.”