Meet the Blue Circle Collective — a national network of Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers united to drive meaningful change for all Australians.  

What is the Blue Circle Collective? 

A national network of passionate Ambassadors, Advocates and Advisers, united to amplify the cause, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change in how diabetes is understood, supported, and addressed.  

At Diabetes Australia, we recognise that speaking means little unless it’s grounded in listening. The Blue Circle Collective strengthens our ability to hear directly from communities, reflect their lived experiences, and advocate for what truly matters. Whether it’s influencing policy, sparking grassroots action, or shifting public perception, the Blue Circle Collective is a driving force for progress. 

Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers each have a distinct role, all connected by a common purpose. Whether influencing national policy, sparking grassroots action, or shifting public perception, members aren’t bystanders; they’re the driving force. 

” There has always been stigma surrounding people who live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and I believe one way to change that is for those with lived experience to help educate others.” – Dominic Speranza, Community Advocate 

Meet the Circle 

With the Blue Circle Collective spanning nationwide, we’re proud to introduce the powerful voices that represent and uplift the diabetes community across Australia. Our Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, each bringing their own perspective to the Circle. 

#1 Ambassadors  

Ambassadors are high-profile voices who champion diabetes awareness on the national stage through media, public events, and major campaigns. As familiar faces, they share a real connection to the cause and a lifelong commitment.
 

Meet some of our 2026 Ambassadors: Warren Bingham, Lachlan Kennedy, Lara McSpadden, Isabella Magee, Bas de Ruijter, Gordon Bunyan 

#2 Advocates 

Advocates are passionate volunteers who speak from lived experience. They shape programs, share stories, and ensure real voices are heard where decisions get made — experts in what it’s like to live with diabetes. 

Meet some of our 2026 Advocates: Dominic Speranza, Lauren Cusack, Dr Amira Howari, Vicky Kavasilas, Sebastian Harris, Kate Wildermuth, Lucy Woods 

#3 Advisers 

Combining professional expertise with lived experience, Advisers guide Diabetes Australia’s Board and Management on strategy and research, translating community perspectives into authentic, impactful solutions. 

Meet some of our 2026 Advisers: Leon Tribe, Yvonne Appleby, Emma Bond, Jenna Cantamessa, Saradhi Motamarri, Caitlin Rogers, Caroline Thomas 

How Circle members make a difference 

Members contribute in ways that suit them, either sharing stories or insights that shape programs and services, participating in events and media opportunities, contributing to research and advocacy efforts, providing formal consultation to the Diabetes Australia Board and Management, and supporting or leading community-driven initiatives. Some step into the spotlight; others work behind the scenes. Both matter equally. 

No matter how diabetes touches your life, your experience is important. Whether you live with diabetes, care for someone who does, work in the field, or are at risk, your experience matters. Your voice can help shape programs, support others, and make a real difference in the lives of families living with diabetes. 

“If you’re thinking about joining the Blue Circle Collective, please step in. Your voice, your story, and your individual circumstances truly matter. Each of your stories within the Circle can help us eliminate the impact of diabetes on all Australians.”  – Kirsten McMahon, National Manager Social Impact 

Want to learn more? 

Visit our website to discover how the Blue Circle Collective is creating change and get to know the stories behind the inspiring Australians driving it.