What do national museums, cruise ships, Anzac soldiers, and student job readiness have in common?

Derryn Belford.

From building the National Anzac Centre in Albany to spearheading hotel development in Perth and now leading StudyPerth, Derryn’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this wide-ranging and illuminating conversation, we dive deep into the mind of a strategic thinker whose career has been shaped by curiosity, stakeholder savvy, and a genuine love for WA.

And yes, she’s still learning new industries, still reading science magazines, and still passionate about good market research.

🎧 Highlights from the conversation:

• How Derryn turned a sceptical council into believers by rewriting a business case for the National Anzac Centre — one of WA’s most awarded attractions

• What makes WA a “now” destination, not just a “one day” dream

• Why social licence is crucial for international education (and what we’re getting wrong)

• The surprising parallels between tourism and education marketing

• What happens when you build strategy with people instead of for them

• How growing up in seven country towns built her curiosity muscle — and her secret to getting across new industries fast

  
  

There’s a distinct pride that flows through this episode — not just in WA itself, but in doing meaningful work that lasts. And through it all, Derryn reminds us that impact isn’t about shouting the loudest — it’s about listening, adapting, and solving the real problem.

We are incredibly proud to be the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.

This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.

For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au