meet MELINDA ‘MEL’ JACOBSEN

SENIOR facilitator

 
 
Melinda Jacobsen photo
 
“Having previously been a client of MosaicLab’s and seeing deliberative processes in action, I now fully appreciate it is the gold standard when it comes to engaging the community in meaningful and empowering ways.”
- Melinda Jacobsen
 
 

Mel felt so positively about MosaicLab that she happily transitioned from client to team member when a spot opened up for a senior facilitator in early 2021.  

She brings to MosaicLab unbridled energy and enthusiasm for life, a personal passion for human connection and an urgent need to help (re)create and support communities to reconnect and flourish.  

Mel is known to possess at least two superpowers. She has an uncanny ability to be a step ahead of others in events and facilitation experiences and she can, and will, burst into dance when you least expect it.  

“I have a pretty keen attention to detail which helps me ensure everyone ‘in the room’ feels welcome, comfortable and supported,” she said.   

“I also love sprinkling creativity across gatherings that delight and surprise, based on a belief that memorable experiences happen when all the senses are engaged. Oh, and I am also known for busting out a dance move at random moments to shift energy.”  

Mel has a Bachelor of Business (Public Administration) and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology, along with more than 20 years’ experience leading and empowering teams, fostering culture and designing and delivering memorable events.

She has previously worked in a range of start-ups, national organisations and statutory authorities. It's all given her a unique perspective and an abundance of learnings on how to bring out the best in people from varied backgrounds.  

“The most satisfying part of my role here is the variety of conversations across a variety of sectors.   

“While the topic may be different each time, the passion and curiosity (most) people bring to the conversation are universal. I'm really inspired by how 'into' issues some people are. 

“I work hard during our sessions to ensure they feel like they've been heard and that they’ve had an unexpect- edly enjoyable time.  

“I believe there is tremendous opportunity in including the voice of everyday citizens in informing mainstream policy and practice. Everyone deserves to be seen and heard and each of us offers a unique perspective.  

“I also really value my colleagues. I've never worked in an organisation where every single one of them is fun, energetic, generous and kind. There is no competition and everyone genuinely lifts each other up. Wonderful!” 

Good luck trying to locate Mel anywhere INDOORS when she’s away from work. Spare time for Mel is best spent outside in nature (running, paddle boarding, swimming, hiking) and hanging out with her family, including Bailey, the Cocker Spaniel.   

You might not know this about Mel ... 
She completed five marathons before she turned 30 (wow). These included one in Venice, Italy and the Sydney Olympics test event. Mel is also a bit of a “closet petrol-head" who really enjoys watching motor sport (F1 and V8).