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Irene Opper
Change Agent / Consultant to Nonprofit Sector / National Manager - Neighbourhood Connect / Asset Based Com Devt Guide
Professional Background
Irene Opper is a highly experienced and multi-skilled professional whose career spans over two decades. With a profound commitment to making a positive impact at local, state, and international levels, she has made significant strides in the not-for-profit and government sectors. A distinguished enabler, problem solver, facilitator, strategist, and change agent, Irene is driven by the desire to facilitate change and improve processes for the communities she serves.
Throughout her career, she has accumulated extensive experience across six countries, demonstrating her adaptability and expertise in various capacities, including consultant, CEO, project manager, change manager, and systemic advocate. Irene has worked across many sectors, including community services, government services, international development, multicultural initiatives, health, women's services, child protection, juvenile justice, youth services, disability, and social work education. Her diverse knowledge base allows her to approach each situation with fresh insights and solutions tailored to the specific needs of the communities she supports.
Currently, Irene serves as the National Manager of the Street by Street Project, actively guiding councils on Asset-Based Community Development. She is also a highly sought-after consultant, leveraging her broad expertise to benefit non-profit organizations and government bodies. Irene’s proven ability to establish long-term, positive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders contributes significantly to her success as a collaborative leader.
Education and Achievements
Irene Opper's educational background is robust and reflects her commitment to professional development and excellence in social welfare. She studied for a Master of Social Welfare Administration and Planning at The University of Queensland, which has provided her with a solid theoretical foundation to complement her vast practical experience. Additionally, Irene holds a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University, which equipped her with critical thinking skills essential for her work in community development and social advocacy.
Moreover, Irene further honed her skills by earning a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40110) from Inspire Education. This credential showcases her dedication to training and developing others, ensuring that she can effectively share her vast knowledge with teams and stakeholders.
Notable Positions and Contributions
Over the years, Irene has held numerous influential positions that showcase her versatility and commitment to community service. Her extensive career includes key roles such as the Principal Project Officer (Refugee Health) at the Department of Health in Queensland, where she advocated for and implemented important health initiatives for refugee communities.
Another significant role Irene undertook was as the Pacific Regional Change Leader at Oxfam Australia, where she played a pivotal role in promoting social justice and equity in the Pacific region. Her expertise as a Multicultural Advocate at the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland allowed her to support and uplift diverse communities, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized populations.
Additionally, her role as the Coordinator of the Parent-Youth Mediation Service at Camcare exemplifies her ability to facilitate conflict resolution, particularly in sensitive family situations, showcasing her exceptional skills in mediation and community engagement.
Through her various roles—ranging from quality officer and educational tutor to community development project manager—it's evident that Irene thrives on helping communities build their capacities and facilitating meaningful strategies that lead to sustainable development. Her proactive approach to engaging with stakeholders and negotiating feasible action plans makes her an invaluable asset to any team.
Skills and Expertise
Irene Opper possesses a wealth of knowledge and specialized skills that make her an expert in numerous fields. She has developed a particular proficiency in community development, change management, and strategic planning, all of which are crucial when working to empower individuals and communities. Her ability to engage with persons from diverse backgrounds allows her to facilitate discussions and initiatives that promote collaboration and understanding.
As a researcher and trainer, Irene is adept at applying evidence-based practices to her work, ensuring that she develops solutions based on thorough analysis and evaluation of demographic needs. Her strong belief in strengths-based approaches enables her to leverage community assets, maximizing quality while overcoming challenges faced by organizations.
Conclusion
Irene Opper's extensive professional background, educational credentials, and unwavering commitment to community well-being position her as a leading figure in the field of social welfare and community development. With her innovative approach and collaborative spirit, Irene continues to make meaningful contributions that enhance the lives of individuals across various sectors. Her success as a change agent is marked by her ability to transform ideas into actionable strategies that uplift communities, making her a valued leader in the not-for-profit sector and beyond.