There are countless opportunities for students to apply theory from the classroom to solve real world issues, but a new internship with the inspirational non-profit organisation Impact100 Sydney gives students a chance to support the city’s most vulnerable communities.

Impact100 Sydney, a key sub-fund of the Sydney Community Foundation, empowers individuals to come together through collective giving to create transformational local impact. Established in 2017, it has raised $935,000 to award eight major grants of $100,000 each and an additional nine smaller grants. This year, Impact100 Sydney will reach a remarkable milestone, donating its millionth dollar to support vital projects in the community.

The new partnership between Macquarie Business School and Impact100 Sydney encourages students to use their business skills for good.

“Transferable professional skills are absolutely fundamental in business, and at Macquarie Business School we have a clear focus on teaching these skills throughout our courses to develop graduates who are prepared to navigate their careers,” said Jennifer Ruskin, Academic Director Work-integrated Learning and Employability.

“The new internship with Impact100 Sydney offers a student the feeling of accomplishment that comes with purpose-driven work. Through the experience, they develop communication, problem-solving, adaptability and other key skills that are sought-after by employers in all kinds of organisations.”

The internship allows a Macquarie Business School student to get involved with the development of Impact100 Sydney’s ‘Schools for Impact’ program, which aims to educate and empower high school students to become active contributors to positive social change. The successful candidate will be required to create a comprehensive strategy and develop workshops and learning modules for students in line with educational standards, providing a unique view into the world of social impact, philanthropy and collective giving.

Corinne Kemp, co-chair of Impact100 Sydney, recently won the Unsung Hero Award 2024, presented by the Committee for Sydney in partnership with Macquarie Business School. This award recognises changemakers working quietly behind the scenes to make Sydney a better city for all. In her acceptance speech, Corinne emphasised that equal access to opportunity is what makes a city thrive.

“I think everyone has the ability to make a difference but sometimes that door just needs to be opened for them,” she said.

“We are delighted to partner with Macquarie Business School as we work to enhance our strategic direction. This collaboration brings valuable opportunities to tap into their expertise and innovative thinking in philanthropy and social impact.

“Drawing upon the school's academic knowledge and practical business insights will be instrumental as we develop our forward-looking strategies. Their expertise will help us strengthen our approach to collective giving and deepen our impact in the community.”