Audra Mitchell

Background

About Audra Mitchell

For nearly two decades, I've studied how structural violence and harm shape ecosystems and communities across the planet. I've had the privilege of learning from communities who are tackling some of the world's most complex harms, from plant and animal extinctions to climate change, genocide, colonization, racism, war, ableism and gendered violence. My work aims to challenge dominant norms, co-create and share knowledge, build connections, strategize for positive change, and collaborate towards more just and inclusive futures. As a research professor, a major part of my job is developing and building out new research programs. I’ve ideated, developed, written and managed >$2.6 million in grants, including several international partnerships, networks/collectives and multi-disciplinary teams. I also advise government bodies, funders, publishers and universities on strategic priorities for future research, inclusivity in research environments and more. I’m a prolific and versatile writer: author or co-author of 53 peer-reviewed publications, including 5 books/journal editions. I'm also a skilled public speaker who has given more than 30 keynotes and invited talks in more than 10 countries. I have 18 years' experience of curriculum development, delivery and evaluation at every level of higher education. My teaching foregrounds diverse learners while cultivating critical problem-solving, collaboration and creativity. I've also designed unique experiential, community-engaged, research-based and online modalities. I’m a natural designer/facilitator of workshops, trainings, seminars, creative knowledge-sharing sessions (and more). I foster spaces where people feel supported and inspired to challenge barriers and to explore new perspectives and possibilities. I'm also a dedicated mentor who uses coaching techniques to help others connect with their deepest strengths, passions and talents. For over a decade, I’ve acted as a consultant, board member, committee member, external examiner or evaluator, internationally and in many sectors: higher education, government, the arts, museums, funders, publishers, NGOs and social movements. I love learning about other disciplines, knowledge systems and ways of thinking. Advocacy infuses each aspect of my work, not only as a disabled professional, but also as a supervisor, colleague, mentor and supporter. I deeply value lived experience, critical, intersectional frameworks (e.g. anti-racism, disability justice, anti-colonialism, 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy) and rigorous evidence as drivers of meaningful change.