Penelope Monger
What is your role at Hume Anglican Grammar?
Assistant Principal – Secondary
Do you have a Motto or personal mantra?
There, but for the grace of God, go I.
What is one thing you couldn’t live without?
Food. I have a healthy appetite and a sweet tooth.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career thus far and why?
I take full responsibility for my own decisions and career path. However, I am also grateful for the support of my family when making decisions that have affected them. Additionally, I take inspiration from a number of role models, including Julia Gillard, Michelle Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and, more recently, Jacinda Ardern.
Favourite travel spot?
I have had the good fortune to have travelled widely and, while it is too difficult to choose one favourite, highlights include Machu Picchu (South America), New York City, Rwanda, the Scottish Highlands, the south island of New Zealand and the Pilbara region here in Australia.
What’s the weirdest job you’ve ever had?
Of the 27 jobs that I have had over the years, the most unlikely is working for a hardware store in Perth, where I became their woodworking router specialist, despite having absolutely no skills or experience in woodworking!
How do you define success?
The late singer, Kenny Rogers, said that his mother gave him the following advice: be happy where you are, but not content to stay there. Success, then, is being able to find the joy in where you’re at, but with the open-heartedness to develop and grow.
Tell us two things most people don’t know about you…
1. I’m an enormous fan of Dolly Parton and her music.
2. I love playing card games and board games.
