Zehra Ahmed is the sustainability and access projects coordinator (public affairs & development) at the Australian Museum in Sydney. This is the oldest museum in Australia and the fifth-oldest natural history museum in the world. Its vision is to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. Ahmed has been with the museum since January 2016 and in her current position since January 2020.
As part of her role, Ahmed oversaw the creation, implementation, and administration of strategic initiatives for the Australian Museum, such as the AIAP (Accessibility and Inclusion Action Plan) and the Sustainability Action Plan. The Australian Museum is currently a world leader in both areas following the effective execution of these strategies.
The Australian Museum is now Climate Active (carbon neutral) thanks to Ahmed’s leadership. In order to establish the museum as a cutting-edge leader in these areas, this work required managing energy upgrades, putting best practices for waste management into effect throughout the organisation, and working with other important stakeholders.
Ahmed collaborated closely with the Australian Network on Disability and an Advisory Panel to design the AIAP, which was launched in front of key stakeholders and organisations.
With a strong personal interest in sustainability as well as inclusion and accessibility, Ahmed is an enthusiastic supporter of the community and has worked as a volunteer in several community projects investigating the consequences of climate change and sea level rise in the Torres Strait Islands.
In November 2020, the Australian Museum reopened its doors following 15 months of renovation, redevelopment and expansion. The heritage-listed building underwent a total facelift and more than 3,000 square metres of new public space was been added.