Masterclasses, site visits and industry immersions
At the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS), our connections are your connections. Our masterclasses, site visits and industry immersions give students across all disciplines the opportunity to engage with their preferred industries, establish connections, and learn from inspiring leaders.
As an ICMS student, these are the types of things you can expect to be involved with as part of your studies.
Masterclasses
Game Changers: Lessons in Leadership
This powerful masterclass brought together two of Australia’s top sporting minds – Paul Roos (AFL Hall of famer) and Anthony Griffin (former NRL coach) – for a deep dive into leadership, resilience, and the power of team culture.
With Renee Gartner guiding the conversation, students gained real-world insights into what it means to lead with purpose, adapt to challenges, and build environments where people can thrive.
From $400 to a Global Fashion Empire
In this inspiring masterclass, MESHKI co-founder Natalie Khoei shared how she transformed a side hustle into a global fashion brand – all while balancing university and a part-time job.
Natalie’s message to students was clear: don’t wait for the perfect moment – just start. But do it smartly. Education gave her the safety net to grow at her own pace, and the skills she gained became the foundation of MESHKI’s success.Exploring a Career in Luxury Retail
Students at ICMS had a rare opportunity to step inside the world of high-end fashion and fine jewellery during the Richemont Oceania Masterclass, featuring professionals from some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands – including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, IWC Schaffhausen, and Jaeger-LeCoultre.
In this exclusive session, five Richemont Oceania leaders shared practical advice on building a career in luxury.
Fashion Start Up Success Stories
In the fashion start-up masterclass, students met Sophia Kim, founder of Siempre Golden, who shared her journey from humble beginnings to international fashion success.
With over 100,000 TikTok followers, Sophia inspired students with stories of grit, creativity, and hustle. She spoke about influencer marketing, celebrity networking, and overcoming rejection.
Tourism Insights
In this inspiring masterclass, ICMS students heard from Steve Cox, CEO of Destination NSW, as he shared his deep industry knowledge and passion for tourism.
Cox discussed the evolving landscape of the tourism industry and how New South Wales is staying competitive through innovative, experience-driven strategies.
Women in Business Panel
In this empowering session, four distinguished leaders shared their journeys and insights on navigating and succeeding in the business world.
Ann Whitelock, Chairperson of ICMS Scholarships; Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO of Business Events Sydney; Ramak Salamat, Entrepreneur and General Manager APAC of Hopin; and Sonia Sadiq Ghandi, Director of Gandhi Creations, discussed the challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered as women in leadership roles.
Start Ups and Entrepreneurship
In this dynamic session, ICMS students gained invaluable insights from four accomplished entrepreneurs: Darryl Courtney-O’Connor, Founder of ICMS; Fernando Motti, Founder of Motti + Smith; Caspar Schmidt, Founder and Managing Director of QCC Collection Group; and Nandeeta Maharaj, Founder of Goods 4 Good.
The panelists shared their personal journeys, challenges, and strategies for building successful businesses from the ground up.
Journey to Fashion Success with P.E Nation Founders
In this engaging online Q&A, ICMS students heard directly from Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning, founders of the successful urban streetwear athleisure brand, P.E Nation.
Drawing on their experience from working together at Sass & Bide to launching their own label, they shared valuable business insights and practical advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs.
Succeeding in the Business of Sport
Turning a passion for sport into a career takes more than just playing the game. The ICMS sports masterclass featured experienced professionals who shared insights on marketing, event management, talent representation, and athlete wellbeing.
The panel included Samara Govender (Football Australia), David Boyle (National Rugby League), Andrew Fraser (Sunstar Entertainment), and Josh Hussey (Athletes for Life).
Recipe for success in Hospitality Management
In this masterclass Marilyn Annechini and Ramsie Taylor from Pilu at Freshwater shared their experiences running a highly awarded fine-dining restaurant specialising in modern Sardinian cuisine.
Marilyn and Ramsie highlighted the importance of creating a unique dining experience through personal service and storytelling, as well as leveraging social media and customer reviews to stay connected and improve.
Lessons in Hospitality Leadership
Neil Perry, one of Australia’s most iconic chefs and restaurateurs, shared his journey and insights with ICMS hospitality and tourism students.
Known for founding the Rockpool restaurants and his 20-year partnership with Qantas, Neil spoke about building a successful hospitality business, overcoming challenges like COVID-19, and his vision for the future.
Secrets to Fashion Success
Alex Perry, Australian fashion icon, shared honest advice with ICMS Fashion students: success isn’t about looks or connections but about hard work, resilience, and proving yourself from entry level. He stressed sticking with entry roles, showing strong work ethic, and being proactive.
As the son of a Greek migrant, Alex values hard work deeply and encouraged students to focus on solutions and listen only to respected critics.
Site Visits and Industry Immersions
Australian Fashion Week
At Australian Fashion Week 2025, a group of prospective ICMS students got an exclusive look behind the scenes of luxury fashion. Guided by ICMS staff, they experienced runway shows, met industry professionals, and saw event operations up close.
The visit gave students a real sense of what it takes to succeed in fashion and events – turning inspiration into career direction.
Salesforce
ICMS business, marketing and IT students explored the world of innovation and AI during an exclusive visit to Salesforce Tower Sydney.
From panoramic views on the Ohana Floor to a hands-on AI workshop, students got a real-world look at how tech is shaping business. They heard from senior leaders about career paths, personal branding and the power of feedback, leaving inspired and better prepared for the tech industry.
SXSW
Event management students at ICMS gained exclusive behind-the-scenes access to SXSW Sydney – one of the world’s most dynamic events for creativity, innovation and tech.
From a live Q&A with SXSW’s General Manager Jono Whyman to observing a production meeting and attending the event itself, students experienced the full scope of large-scale event planning.
Budgy Smuggler
ICMS students visited the Northern Beaches headquarters of iconic swimwear brand Budgy Smuggler for a behind-the-scenes look at brand growth, leadership, and local manufacturing.
They were welcomed by General Manager – and ICMS alumnus – Brenden Hartmann, whose unexpected career path from rugby dreams to running a global business offered valuable insight and inspiration.
Asia Pacific Events and Meetings Event (AIME)
At the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) in Melbourne, ICMS showcased its strong connection between education and industry. Event Program Manager Janene Wardrop led a well-received workshop on how to lead and manage Gen Z employees in the workplace, offering practical advice and real-world examples.
Three ICMS Bachelor of Event Management students gained valuable hands-on experience by helping to organise and deliver this major event expo.
Cricket Australia, Manly Sea Eagles and Manly Warringah District Cricket Club
Future ICMS sports management students joined a special breakfast with leaders from Cricket Australia, Manly Sea Eagles, and Manly Warringah District Cricket Club.
Speakers shared insights on sports broadcasting, NRL’s US expansion, player contracts, and women’s growing role in sports. Mike Baird urged students to follow their passion, while Tony Mestrov encouraged more women in sports leadership.
Cartier
ICMS hosted Cartier’s talent acquisition team at the Northern Beaches campus, offering students valuable insights into luxury brand careers.
Cartier shared details about upcoming recruitment and internship opportunities within the Richemont group, giving students a unique glimpse into the industry. This ongoing partnership helps shape the future of luxury retail by supporting the next generation of professionals.
The Iconic
ICMS lecturer and industry professional Cara Wiggins created an exclusive internship program at The Iconic for fashion students through ICMS’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program.
This hands-on experience helps students build real-world skills and industry connections, preparing them for successful fashion careers. The partnership benefits both students and The Iconic by bringing fresh talent into the company.
ICC
ICMS Master of Event Management students enjoyed an industry excursion to ICC Sydney, gaining firsthand insights into event operations at a world-class venue.
The ICC team welcomed students with an informative Q&A on event management, sustainability, and industry best practices, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour.