The Change Agency People

The Change Agency Education and Training Institute is an independent social movement initiative based in Australia and working in the Asia-Pacific region.

James Whelan (director and co-founder)

James Whelan (director and co-founder)

James is director of the Change Agency, a not-for-profit that provides education and training, facilitation and strategy support for social change groups in Australia, the Pacific and Asia. In this role, he has facilitated campaign strategy, decision-making and evaluation workshops and meetings with hundreds of social movement organisations.  James has been a public interest organiser for three decades, campaigning on issues including climate change and air pollution, sustainable transport, forest conservation and human rights. He has also enjoyed 15 years as an academic and social scientist, working at several universities and think tanks, publishing widely on popular education and social movements, participatory democracy and environmental politics. He's a proud dad and grandpop, living and working in Muloobinba (Newcastle) on the lands of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples. Email James or phone 0431 150 928
Jason MacLeod (associate)

Jason MacLeod (associate)

Jason has spent 30 years in education and training, teaching civil resistance, strategy, and community organising across Asia, Oceania, and Australia. He has worked in conflict zones, supporting self-determination struggles, and has experienced both victory and failure in campaigns. Like you, he knows we cannot lose on climate. Jason holds a PhD in social movements and politics from The University of Queensland. Based on Muwinina Country, Lutruwita, he currently teaches high school and finds joy in paragliding, surfing, paddling rivers, and exploring the wild landscapes of Tasmania. Email Jason Macleod
Taya Seidler (associate)

Taya Seidler (associate)

Taya is a passionate educator and facilitator supporting activists, communities and businesses to effect positive evolutionary change in the world.  She is particularly interested in the skills and processes that allow individuals and groups to unify in order to work effectively and sustainably to influence systemic change.  Her company, Process Power, helps groups to learn the art and science of strategic relating and acting, connecting the essential inner and interpersonal work needed to catalyse collective strategic action.  Specialising in leadership and team development, Taya has over 14 years experience designing and facilitating learning programs for diverse groups.  She believes in and practises the science of possibility and in spite of the current reality we face she is optimistic about the future. Contact Taya.