Gemma Swart

Gemma Swart has a diverse range of work experience spanning over several years. Gemma currently serves as the Global Campaigns Director at the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), a position they have held since 2022. Prior to this, Gemma worked at the International Trade Union Confederation - ITUC from 2011 to 2022, where they served as the Global Media and Campaigns member. In this role, they were responsible for overseeing press activities for the General Secretary and leading international media campaigns at G20 and World Bank/IMF meetings. Gemma also played a crucial role in the release of the ITUC's Annual Global Rights Index in 2018, which highlighted the countries with the worst conditions for workers.

Earlier in their career, Gemma worked at Essential Media Communications from 2006 to 2015. Gemma held the position of Associate Director International from 2011 to 2015, where they provided research-based media strategies for Australian trade unions and NGOs. Gemma also worked with various unions and peak bodies, including CFMEU Mining and Energy, Finance Sector Union, and Australian and International Pilots Association. Additionally, they were involved in campaign management for Every Australian Counts, advocating for a National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Before their time at Essential Media Communications, Gemma worked at Oxfam from 1999 to 2006. Gemma'sroles at Oxfam included serving as the Media and Advocacy Coordinator for East Asia, handling media relations for post-tsunami and earthquake responses in Indonesia. Gemma also played a key role in campaigning for labor rights and the Make Trade Fair campaign in the East Asia region. Additionally, Gemma served as the Media and Advocacy Coordinator for Horn East and Central Africa, managing media relations in conflict zones and providing campaigning training across multiple countries. Gemma began their tenure at Oxfam as the Media Manager for Oxfam Scotland.

Lastly, Gemma's career began at PS Public Affairs, where they worked as a Senior Account Manager from 1996 to 1999.

Throughout their career, Gemma has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy, media management, and campaign coordination within the international labor and humanitarian sectors.

Gemma Swart's education history begins in 1983 when they started attending St Leonards-Mayfield School until 1991. However, no specific degree or field of study was provided for this period. From 1992 to 1996, Gemma studied at the University of St Andrews, where they pursued a degree in Modern History and International Relations, earning their MA. Later, in 1997 to 1998, they enrolled at Queen Margaret University, obtaining a Diploma in Public Relations.