Dr. Diane Macdonald is a qualitative researcher at the Black Dog Institute and UNSW Sydney, combining robust business management expertise with innovative arts-based enquiry methods to foster resilient and inclusive communities. Her research centres on partnering with people marginalised by mental health challenges and disability, using creative approaches to generate knowledge, support vulnerable populations and translate research insights for broader community engagement.

 

Her work includes using body mapping techniques with post-suicide communities to facilitate healing and open pathways for meaningful communication. She is currently leading a project that brings women's body maps — documenting experiences of discrimination and stigma — into corporate and retail environments, pioneering new ways to share research knowledge beyond traditional academic boundaries.