Brighter Futures Youth Podcast

From $0 to ASX: Building Airtasker with Tim Fung (Co-Founder & CEO, Airtasker) | Episode 18

In this episode of the Brighter Futures Youth Podcast, we sit down with Tim Fung, Co-Founder and CEO of Airtasker, to unpack the journey from a simple idea to building one of Australia’s leading online marketplaces. Tim shares the early challenges of entrepreneurship, the mindset behind scaling a trusted platform, and what it really takes to turn vision into impact. From navigating uncertainty to leading through growth, this conversation is packed with practical lessons for young people interested in startups, leadership, and the future of work. Whether you’re dreaming of building something of your own or simply curious about how modern businesses are created, this episode will leave you inspired to start, learn, and keep going.

Jeanette Cheah on Innovating Education for the Real World (HEX CEO & Co-Founder) | Episode 17

In this episode, I sit down with Jeanette Cheah, co-founder and CEO of HEX, to explore why entrepreneurial education matters now more than ever and what it really takes for young people to build clarity, confidence, and agency early in their careers. Jeanette reflects on building HEX from the ground up, leading with values in fast-moving systems, and rethinking education through a holistic, practical, and innovative lens. This is a honest conversation about leadership, growth, and creating impact. Listener bonus: HEX is offering 100% free access to their course “How to Build Your Network.” Use the code BFYP to enrol for free (one use per email, unlimited listeners). LINK: https://www.startwithhex.com/upskill-program/how-to-build-your-network

Financial Literacy with Darian Clark (CEO of CUFA) | Episode 16

In this episode, I chat with Darian Clark, CEO of CUFA, about why financial literacy is more than just budgeting - it’s opportunity, confidence, and agency. We explore CUFA’s work across the region, the invisible barriers to financial inclusion, and how we can better support young people in building strong financial futures. We talk about what “financial literacy” really means when you’re teaching someone who has never held a banknote, why empowerment often begins with a single savings group, and how small, local ideas can ripple into generational change. Darian shares stories from the field, the unexpected moments that shaped his leadership, and the human side of building economic opportunity from the ground up. It’s a conversation about dignity, agency, and the power of giving people the tools to change their own futures.

Health for All with Lady Roslyn Morauta (Global Fund Chair, Former PNG First Lady) | Episode 15

In this episode, I sit down with Lady Roslyn Morauta, Chair of the Global Fund and one of the Pacific’s most respected leaders in public health and governance. From her years as First Lady of Papua New Guinea to her leadership in steering one of the world’s largest health organisations, Lady Roslyn has dedicated her life to improving access to healthcare and fighting inequality across the globe. We talk about what it means to lead in times of crisis, how communities can build resilience from the ground up, and why partnership, between countries, organisations, and people, is at the heart of lasting change. Lady Roslyn shares powerful insights on equity, compassion, and the hope driving the fight for a healthier world for all.

Youth Rights with Anne Hollonds (Australia’s National Children’s Commissioner) | Episode 14

In this episode, I speak with Anne Hollonds, Australia’s National Children’s Commissioner, about her work advocating for the rights, safety, and wellbeing of children and young people. Drawing on decades of experience in child and family policy, Commissioner Hollonds offers thoughtful insights into the challenges facing young Australians today from mental health and education inequality to the importance of listening to children’s voices in decision-making. Our conversation explores both the systemic reforms needed and the practical steps individuals can take to help create a society where every child has the opportunity to thrive. This is a powerful discussion for anyone interested in social policy, human rights, or the future of Australia’s next generation.