Adrian Appo
Non-Executive Director
Adrian is a Gureng Gureng man from south-east Queensland. After qualifying as an electrician, he served with distinction in the Royal Australian Air Force qualifying as a Telecommunication Technician. He instructed in the electrical trades after studying and receiving a Bachelor of Teaching. Adrian then moved into labour market recruitment positions with the Federal Government and private employment agencies. He continued in his community development by becoming a Graduand of the Fairley Goulburn Community Leadership Programme followed by the prestigious Williamson Community Leadership Programme, as well as in 2009 studying at the Harvard School of Business in the Strategic Perspectives Non-Profit Leadership program. He has gathered a raft of awards and accolades that include a Defense Service Medal, Centenary Medal and Order of Australia Medal.
Often referred to as a ‘social entrepreneur’, Adrian has been a cornerstone in the establishment of Ganbina and the development and implementation of its successful school to work transitions program that leads the sector at both the state and national level.
Adrian’s practical insights are very much sort after for regional, state and national committees and forums. He is especially consulted in the areas of school to work transition and Indigenous employment and economic development.