GLF Connect...takes on democracy.
Is democracy still fit for purpose?
Join us this spring for a bold conversation on the evolving state of democracy. As all aspects of our world shift, we’ll explore whether democracy can keep up—and whether it still serves us.
This dynamic session invites you to hear fresh takes from special guest speaker Dr Rodrigo Praino and our diverse panel - followed by an open-floor discussion with DemocracyCo that invites challenge, insight and new perspectives—the GLF way. Together, we’ll question, debate and reimagine what democracy could be in a time of complexity, disruption and generational change.
Stay after to connect, reflect and continue the conversation over drinks and light refreshments.
When: Tuesday, 9 September 2025
Time: 4:30pm – 6.30pm
Where: Yungondi Building, City West Campus, North Tce
Cost: Suggested $20 contribution to the GLF Connect Scholarship Fund
Expect big questions, bold ideas, and rich conversations—spring into action and be part of the dialogue.
This event is proudly supported by our sponsors.
Meet your panel
Dr Rodrigo Praino is Professor of Politics and Public Policy and Director of the Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies. For over a decade, he has conducted successful research on elections, focusing on how voters make decisions in a context of low-information. His publications in this area cover a wide range of issues, including the effect of political scandals and corruption, the political behaviour of young voters, the political representation of women, and the role of candidate physical appearance.
Dr Heather Holmes-Ross has been the Mayor of the City of Mitcham since 2018, coming from a background of small business and scientific research. She is currently the President of the Local Government Association, the peak body representing South Australia's 68 councils.
Danielle James is a proud Aboriginal woman from the Nauo Nation, Eyre Peninsula South Australia and Co Chairperson - Nauo Aboriginal Corporation. As a leader, I commit to action and inspire a sense of purpose and direction from others while listening, understanding and adapting to build organisational capability and responsiveness.
Claire Videon is a year 11 student at Concordia College and Youth GLF graduate from 2024. She absolutely loves school and is taking lots of science subjects, aiming to study psychology at university. She enjoys working with others to create a better future and brings passionate insights from an upcoming voter.
Fida Hussain is a dedicated Social Worker with a passion for community empowerment, youth development and family services. Fida brings perspectives and experience in voting systems in both Afghanistan and Australia for comparison.
Mobilisation session: Are you "Democracy Fit"?
Living in a democracy requires that each of us use our democracy muscles - active listening, empathy, curiosity, disagreeing respectfully & willingness to compromise. Emily Jenke is currently Australia's only democracy fitness trainer - and will be joining GLF Takes on Democracy to help us strengthen our democracy muscles. Emily is a co-founder and coCEO of DemocracyCo - an Adelaide based global organisation that is on a mission to help us have a healthier democracy. DemocracyCo use deliberative techniques to support communities to have a greater role in policy making, reform and decision making.
