74. BELINDA HUGHES

“From Redfern to Reform: Belinda Hughes on Courageous, Compassionate Leadership” 📄 Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard sits down with Belinda Hughes—current Executive Director Legal for the Papua New Guinea Independent Commission Against Corruption—for a raw, inspiring, and deeply human conversation about leadership, resilience, and integrity. Belinda shares her extraordinary journey from her early days as a probationary constable in Redfern, to becoming a trailblazing prosecutor with Strike Force Raptor, and eventually taking her skills and values to the international stage. Along the way, she opens up about navigating motherhood in the police force, studying law while raising a daughter, and leading major cultural change in some of the most complex environments in Australia and the Pacific. With warmth and candour, Belinda reveals how she broke down barriers—sometimes literally with a netball team—and challenged the status quo with intelligence and heart. 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Leading without rank: her first experience of real leadership as a junior constable Creating innovation and cultural change within police, transport, and regulatory agencies The importance of mentorship, authenticity, and ‘prosecuting nicely’ How she built trust in PNG through connection, culture—and netball Why emotional intelligence is a leadership superpower Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned professional, or just in need of a fresh perspective, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it truly means to lead with courage and compassion. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book