On stage
TEDxKew speaker, with talks that open conversations about the verdicts we carry and the warning signs we miss.
ABOUT CONNIE
There is more to a person than one chapter.
I’m Connie Paglianiti, a Melbourne-based keynote speaker, author and educator.
A career built around people.
I have more than 40 years of event experience, including Lygon Street Festa, La Dolce Italia, international exhibition work in Guangzhou and major gala and public productions.
My career includes events involving Sophia Loren, Susan Sarandon, Goldie Hawn, Jane Seymour and John Travolta. I know the planning, responsibility and effort that sit behind the moments an audience sees.
Gambling addiction was part of what happened. I take responsibility for my actions and the harm they caused. I went to prison at 61, and rebuilding meant doing the work of recovery, learning and contributing again.
Today I bring that experience to speaking, writing and teaching. I want people to look more closely, ask better questions and leave room for what comes next.
Explore my speakingSpeaking. Writing. Continuing to learn.
On the page
Author of From the Shadows into the Light, which achieved Amazon bestseller status across 25 categories in five countries. Red Flags in Plain Sight™ is ready and available with speaking bookings.
In the classroom
Teaching event management and public speaking, drawing on practical experience and a continuing commitment to learning.
Continuing to learn and contribute.
Rebuilding through learning
- At 61, I went to prison.
- At 66, I completed a Diploma of Event Management at Swinburne University of Technology.
- At 67, I became an Amazon bestselling author.
- At 68, I delivered my TEDxKew talk.
I bring lived experience to conversations about gambling harm, responsibility, stigma and meaningful second chances.
Breaking Chains is my movement manifesto, part of my work to challenge the labels that can continue to limit opportunity after someone has changed.
“It’s never too late to learn something new, begin again and make a contribution.”Connie Paglianiti
Professional experience and recognition
- ISA Certified Speaker
- Victorian Winner, 2017 Australian Event Awards
- Finalist, Best New Event, 2015
- CHIMPORT 2014 – Best Country Pavilion
- Top 100 Award Winner, 100 Speakers 2026 Gala
Today I combine speaking and lived experience advocacy with event management education and the practical planning tools I have developed through EventCore™.
