Dr. Jacqueline Burgess is a multi-award-winning educator and researcher based at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Jacqueline’s research focuses on marketing in the creative industries exploring the emotional connections that audiences form with stories especially video games. Jacqueline’s research has been covered by various international and national news media and published in prestigious academic journals. She has also worked with various creative practitioners from international companies, including Ubisoft, to local businesses and has taught numerous industry workshops. Jacqueline has won international, national and internal recognition for her teaching and is also an active member of the Digital Games Research Association Australia (DiGRAA) having served on the board, executive and as conference chair and organiser.

Dr. Patricia Corbett is a Lecturer in Marine and Coastal Environments at Deakin University, where she is dedicated to innovative teaching practices that foster student partnership, inclusivity, and diverse learning styles. As Deputy Course Director of the Bachelor of Marine Science and Academic Director of Teaching for the School of Life and Environmental Science, she is committed to enhancing student learning experiences. Her primary passion lies in educating others about the marine environment, inspiring the next generation of Marine scientists. Dr. Corbett actively supports her students, creating engaging and accessible learning opportunities that empower them to succeed.

Dr. Sharon Schembri holds a PhD in Management from The University of Queensland. She has more than 25 years of experience in higher education working in Australian, American and French Business schools. She has held various academic leadership positions in Australia and the USA and is currently Dean of Higher Education at TAFE Queensland and Adjunct Professor at James Cook University. Dr. Schembri is well published with more than 50 publications as well as four books and five films. Her primary discipline is business in the area of consumer research and specifically from a consumer experience perspective.