Introducing … Helen Karapandzic

Meet a Member …

Each eNews, we would like to introduce you to one of our wonderful Chapter Members, through a Question & Answer type interview article. 

Therefore, in the hotseat this edition, is Helen Karapandzic, SA/NT Chapter Vice Present, recent SA/NT Summit Chair and Director of Philanthropy at Prince Alfred College

1. Tell us something that might surprise us about you …

I love the ocean and cold-water swimming. I have swum in glacial meltwater lakes in Norway and Scottish lochs. In Adelaide, I swim all year round … but only during daylight hours. One of the scariest things I have done was night diving in California with an array of nocturnal creatures at close range!!

2. What lead you to your present role? What is your favourite aspect?

I have always worked in roles with a strong focus on relationship building, communications and event planning. Working in educational Advancement, and specifically in Fundraising, brings together these skills to make a difference in the lives of young people, which is an amazing privilege.

3. How long have you been a member of EP?

I have been involved in Educate Plus as a Member and Committee Member since 2013.

4. What has being a member done to help your career development?

One of the wonderful things about Educate Plus is how willing our community is to connect and share knowledge and experience. During the early stages of my career, I learnt a lot from others and it is a great feeling now to be able to give back through participation on committees, speaking at conferences and events, and providing mentoring and advice.

5. Who would you like to have lunch with and where?

The global pandemic and a young family meant that we didn’t see our family overseas for seven years. Meeting my niece and nephew for the first time in July was incredibly precious – I would take a sausage sizzle in the back yard with them over a fancy restaurant any day.

6. Favourite food and why?

Bread – baking it and eating it. Nothing beats the smell of freshly-baked bread.

7. Where is your favourite travel location and why?

My hometown – Cambridge. It is hard not to get swept up in its historic architecture, beautiful parks and gardens, and cultural vibrancy. Not to mention the fact that everyone in Cambridge cycles – so good.    

8. What does success look like to you?

To live each day with purpose.

9. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Be true to yourself.

10. When you die, what do you want to be remembered for?

Being a good friend, a loving mother and an eternal optimist.

Thank you Helen! It’s been wonderful to get to know you!