Terese Hooper
Chief Operating Officer, Life Ed NSW/ACT
📍Sydney, Australia
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
Companies can create a lasting social impact by embedding purpose into their core strategy—prioritising initiatives that promote education, health, and community well-being. Inspired by the work we do at Life Ed, businesses can invest in early intervention programs, partner with schools and community organisations, and leverage their resources to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to lead healthier lives. Over the next decade, companies should also focus on fostering a culture of corporate social responsibility by supporting employee-led volunteering, funding evidence-based initiatives, and advocating for policies that drive systemic change in education and public health.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment—one where every child has access to the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make positive choices for their health and future. Through my work at Life Ed NSW and my leadership in education, I want to contribute to a system that prioritises early intervention, lifelong learning, and equity, ensuring that no child is left behind. More broadly, I hope to inspire future leaders—especially women—to step into leadership with courage, purpose, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact in their communities.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Collaborative – I believe in teamwork and value diverse perspectives to drive success.
For me, leadership is not about making decisions in isolation—it’s about bringing people together, leveraging their strengths, and fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. I believe that the best ideas and solutions come from collective wisdom, and I actively seek input from my team, stakeholders, and the communities we serve. By embracing diverse perspectives, we create more innovative, inclusive, and effective strategies that drive real impact.
At Life Ed, collaboration is at the heart of our work—whether it’s partnering with schools, working alongside educators, or engaging with health and community leaders to ensure our programs reach and empower as many young people as possible. My leadership approach is centred on building strong relationships, creating opportunities for shared learning, and ensuring that every voice contributes to our shared vision for a healthier, more informed future.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, it would be this: back yourself.
You don’t need to have all the answers or tick every box before stepping into leadership—confidence grows with action. Take the opportunities that challenge you, trust in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to use your voice. Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you, and seek out mentors who can help you navigate the journey. Most importantly, leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about learning, adapting, and leading with purpose. The world needs more women in leadership, and that starts with believing in yourself.
You don’t need to have all the answers or tick every box before stepping into leadership—confidence grows with action.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Looking ahead, I’m most excited about the opportunity to expand Life Ed NSW’s impact in shaping healthier futures for young people. Health and well-being are at the heart of everything we do, and I’m passionate about driving innovative programs that empower children with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make positive choices. Strengthening partnerships, embracing new technologies, and ensuring that every child—regardless of their background—has access to quality health education is a mission that truly excites me.
On a personal level, I’m committed to prioritising well-being—not just for myself but for those I lead and mentor. As a leader, I believe fostering a culture of balance, resilience, and self-care is just as important as professional success. I look forward to continuing to learn, supporting others on their journey, and championing well-being in leadership, education, and the broader community.
