Melissa Russell

Melissa Russell has pulled out of the Project TOTO shortlist (details at bottom)

Name: Melissa Russell

City: Sydney

Occupation: Change Manager

Twitter: @IdeasForChange

Blog(s): NA

Bio:

Born in Launceston, Tasmania (that’s ‘LON’ceston, not ‘LORN’ceston), traveller of the World. Lover of life, ‘un-lover’ of injustice.

Committed to serving others, student of self-enquiry. Seeking peace. Blessed in this life, and grateful.

Why I want to be an outreach blogger:

I have a natural curiosity about and enthusiasm for people, life and learning. I believe that everyone feels pain, sadness, joy and ecstasy just the same as I do – regardless of their circumstance, history or future. I believe that every interaction, every experience gives me the chance to be a teacher and a student.

I enjoy a global life and consider that I have a global responsibility. I’m a lover of adventure. I actively seek out unusual experiences in my life to expand my awareness of myself, humanity and this incredible planet.

I have seen the power of social networking to create connections, increase awareness and mobilise people to act for positive change. I have used social networking in this way and will continue to do so … fingers crossed, being ActionAid’s outreach blogger will be part of my journey.

*** UPDATE: Melissa Russell has steps down from the shortlist ***
26 November 2009

Melissa Russell has voluntarily stepped down from the Project TOTO shortlist. Below is her explanation for the decision:

I have made a decision to pull out of the competition.  I have been thinking about it for the last week and have felt strongly that it was the right decision but have wanted to wait and be sure.

I did not enter into this competition lightly.  I absolutely believe in the power of social media and the opportunity to use this for real good, for real change.  I was committed and determined to give the competition my best.

Last week I read the other candidate profiles.  My immediate thought was that if I was the judge, I would most definitely not send me, but I would definitely send 2-3 of the other candidates – people who are deeply passionate about helping, social media etc and who are currently living and breathing this without the lure of a competition to entice them.

My passion does not compare to some of the other candidates – yes I’m passionate however part of the enticement was the adventure and the randomness of the whole experience.

If I was to stay in the competition one of two things would happen – either I would work very hard at winning, be a considered candidate and potentially take the spot from someone that I think deserves it much more than I do (and would be much better at it) OR I would be half hearted and going through the motions.  Neither would be fair.

As I said, I have sat on this for a week and now feel more strongly than even before that it is the right thing to do.

I apologise for pulling out at this stage and for any difficulty that might cause you.  I would much rather throw my support behind some of the other candidates and hope the best person is sent to do the job.

Kindest regards
Melissa Russell