Meet our new Australia and New Zealand Director
Talent Beyond Boundaries is thrilled to share the news that Sathya Gnanakaran has joined our team as Australia and New Zealand Director.
An accomplished Immigration Lawyer, Sathya has been working alongside TBB for some time now in her role at EY, where her team managed a number of our candidates’ visa applications. Prior to that, Sathya spent many years with global migration firm, Fragomen.
Sathya’s expertise will be critical over the next two years as TBB works to enable 100 displaced families to relocate to Australia under the Federal Government's Skilled Refugee Pilot program.
Welcome Sathya! What made you decide to take up the role of Australia and New Zealand Director with TBB?
As an immigration lawyer of 14 years, I’ve watched refugee clients grapple with traditional humanitarian programs; feeling like they’re constantly on trial about whether their circumstances are really ‘bad enough’ to justify seeking a life of safety and dignity - something that everyone on this planet wants and deserves.
When I first connected with TBB in my capacity as Manager at EY, it blew my mind. Here is an organisation empowering refugees and other displaced people to lift themselves out of displacement by harnessing their own talents! I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to be a part of such an impactful mission, and focus the conversation on how refugees can help address global skill shortages as key contributors to global economies.
What are you most excited to start working on in the weeks and months ahead?
I’m excited to help implement the Skilled Refugee Pilot in Australia. The implementation of the Pilot will demonstrate how existing systems can be redesigned to include refugees and other displaced people in mainstream skilled migration programs providing a rare win-win situation for skilled refugees, their families and Australian employers. I also cannot wait to be part of the welcoming party that greets our skilled refugee candidates when they arrive at the airport.
How do you believe Australia can benefit from welcoming skilled refugees, and vice-versa?
I believe Australia will benefit from welcoming skilled refugees the same way it already benefits from the migration of global talent. Skilled refugees are an untapped source of skills right now. Giving Australian businesses access to this talent pool will mean critical skills gaps can be filled. Vice-versa, being able to work in Australia provides refugees with a place to call home, without fear. And gives them the ability to choose how they grow and flourish with their families.
What’s your vision for how things could look 50 or 100 years from now, based on the work we’re doing today?
My vision is that skilled migration pathways are accessible to refugees and other displaced people as part of any country’s migration program. I envision countries proactively planning their migration levels incorporating the refugee talent pool not just as a matter of duty in accordance with their international obligations - but as a source of global talent in economic planning.
Newly appointed Australia and New Zealand Director, Sathya Gnanakaran (R) with Talent Beyond Boundaries’ Co-CEO Steph Cousins (L).
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Probably, “I Will Survive!” by Gloria Gaynor - the theme song of every working parent with young children during the COVID-19 pandemic!
Who/what makes you laugh?
My family - especially my daughters. My kids are my reminder to enjoy every little moment however small or big. Their laughs and giggles show me how our happiness should be infectious to all around us.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Singing - and not just in the shower! I sing Indian classical music which I’ve been learning since I was nine years old. My music keeps me spiritually centred and connected with my culture. Who knows, it might be a handy tool when raising my voice to advocate for systems reform!
Connect with Sathya:
Whether you’re an Australian company interested in hiring a skilled refugee, or a partner or donor in Australia wanting to support our work, feel free to contact Sathya for a chat.
