January 22, 2026
Meet Jacinta Bailey, Functions, Event and Venue Coordinator at Sydney CBD Campus UOW
Jacinta is the Functions, Event and Venue Coordinator at the UOW Sydney CBD Campus. With a background in events, hospitality, and community-building, she brings organisation, creativity, and boundless energy to every event she plans. Jacinta loves creating inclusive experiences that leave people feeling supported, happy, and connected.
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you came to your role at the Sydney CBD Campus
Hi, I’m Jacinta. I’m Australian and have Fijian, Indian and Irish heritage. I am fuelled by English Breakfast tea, good ideas, and the belief that great experiences can change someone’s journey. My background spans community-building and experience, events, hospitality, and a lot of project juggling, which has led me into my current role at the UOW Sydney CBD Campus, where I work across corporate functions and events. Think: part organiser, part problem-solver, part enthusiastic hype-person for UOW.
What does your role involve, and what do you enjoy most about working at UOW?
My role is all about making things happen. I plan, coordinate, and deliver events across the Sydney CBD Campus. That means collaborating ‘with academic teams, students, partners, NFPs and support services to deliver experiences that are inclusive, relevant, and valuable.
What I enjoy most about my role is creating fun, inclusive, and engaging experiences. Seeing an event come together smoothly and knowing people felt supported, happy, and valued is incredibly rewarding. What I enjoy most about this campus is the team, the view, and of course, the massage chair.
What does a typical day look like for you when you’re planning and delivering events?
It’s fast-paced, varied, and occasionally chaotic — but in the good way.
No two days are the same, but most involve a mix of playing Tetris with the events calendar, coordinating logistics, liaising with stakeholders, solving problems creatively, and of course moving furniture (helps with my step count). On delivery days, it’s all about adaptability, clear communication, and staying calm while juggling about twelve things at once, ideally with a cup of tea never too far away.
Is there a current or upcoming event you’re especially excited about?
I’m looking forward to Welcome Week. It’s one of those times where energy is high, nerves are real, and first impressions matter.
Welcome Week events are a chance to set the tone, to make people feel welcomed, included, and a little less overwhelmed. If someone walks away feeling like they belong, have met one friendly face, or know where to go next, then we’ve done our job well.
What’s one of the biggest challenges of organising events, and how do you manage it?
The biggest challenge is balancing competing priorities, time constraints, and the occasional last-minute curveball, while still creating meaningful experiences (that appear seamless). Experience has taught me to plan thoroughly, stay flexible, communicate clearly, and always have a backup plan (or two). Calm problem-solving goes a long way.
Any advice for students who want to get involved in student events or programs?
Say yes, even if you’re nervous. You don’t need to be loud, outgoing, or “experienced.” Showing up, asking questions, and being curious is more than enough. Student events are one of the easiest ways to: meet people, build confidence, develop skills and make university feel like your space. Also: Good food. Let’s be honest.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work, and do you have any tips for students enjoying life in Sydney?
I love spending time with friends and family, whether that’s sharing a meal, singing and dancing in the kitchen, playing sports, or just relaxing on the lounge. I really enjoy good company and a good laugh.
For students in Sydney, my tip is to make the most of the outdoors. Explore Barangaroo, the Botanical Gardens, the beaches, the walking paths, and parks (including the garden here in Darling Park); it’s a great way to unwind, stay active, and enjoy the city without spending much money.
Any final friendly words or advice you’d like to share with UOW students?
University isn’t just about getting through assessments; it’s about becoming someone along the way. And remember, everyone else is figuring it out too, even the people who look like they have it all sorted.
Be open. Be curious. Get involved.