Carolyn Vincent is a speaker, dedicated philanthropist, and community enthusiast, widely known for her passion for authentic connection and building strong, connected neighbourhoods.
Her roots trace back to her childhood in Mumbai, India, where she experienced firsthand the power of community through resident-led gatherings that brought generations together. These early experiences shaped her lifelong commitment to shared humanity, belonging, and collective care.
After moving to Australia, Carolyn spent 22 years running several successful retail businesses, which have since been sold. Today, she proudly calls herself “The Connection Ninja” — a guide and catalyst who helps people rediscover what they are passionate about and find meaningful ways to contribute to their communities.
Carolyn’s work in community building is deeply personal. Following years of emotional isolation during her marriage and its breakdown in 2010, she realised she lacked the support network she needed most. This moment became a turning point. She made a conscious decision to proactively build community — not only for herself, but for others experiencing similar disconnection.
Since 2014, Carolyn has initiated six community projects in her home suburbs of Woolloongabba and Moorooka, including Go Gabba Go, All Aboard Moorooka community picnics, Hello Moorooka (formerly Turn off the TV and Turn on the Neighbourhood), Imagine Moorooka, Mission Litter Pickup, and the Community Cleanup and Picnic Project. These initiatives have fostered strong engagement and lasting neighbourhood connections.
In 2019, Carolyn founded the Ubuntu Foundation, a private ancillary fund in Australia, created to support projects and organisations she deeply resonates with — particularly those that strengthen community, foster belonging, and honour our shared humanity.
Her impact has attracted support from local and state government and coverage across television, radio, and print media. From 2014 to 2016, ABC Radio selected Carolyn as a Community Correspondent. She was nominated for Brisbane City Council’s Local Legends Awards in 2015 and won the People’s Choice Award in 2019 as part of the Brisbane Cleaner Suburbs Awards, recognising her leadership through the Mission Litter Pickup project.
The Imagine Moorooka project received a $10,000 Brisbane City Council grant, supporting a community leadership training program that empowered more than 20 local residents to launch their own community initiatives.
As a public speaker, Carolyn speaks passionately about authentic connection, building community, and living a purpose-driven life. She also speaks deeply about the philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because you are” — and the profound truth of our shared humanity and interdependence. Through the Ubuntu Foundation, Carolyn regularly speaks at events hosted by the organisations the Foundation supports, amplifying their work and strengthening the communities they serve.
At the heart of everything Carolyn does is a commitment to philanthropy and social impact. She is dedicated to creating a world that works for everyone and believes that when we do what we truly love — in service of others — we don’t just come alive; we help transform the world.
“Connecting you with Passion and Purpose”