At IGS, every student carves their own unique path, carrying the spirit of curiosity, creativity and community long after graduation. Francis Kavanagh (Class of 2003) found his way from ancient history to law, all while supporting Indigenous education and embracing fatherhood. Braian Szwarcberg-Poch (Class of 2001) built a career in economics before joining his wife’s thriving juice business—one that has even caught the attention of the Royal family. Meanwhile, Sybilla Wajon (Class of 2017) discovered her passion for theatre behind the scenes, turning her love for school clubs into a career in stage management, working with some of Australia’s most renowned actors.
Their journeys are a testament to the many ways an IGS education fosters lifelong learning and meaningful connections.
Francis Kavanagh – Class of 2003
After school, I studied an Arts degree in History and Comparative Religion at Sydney University, with honours focusing on Ancient Religion. I then worked in different hospitals doing various jobs for several years until I felt in need of a new challenge. I decided to take on a Juris Doctor law degree at UTS. During this time, I worked part-time with many wonderful Indigenous students and staff at Eora TAFE and at Tranby Aboriginal College tutoring. I married my lovely wife and fellow IGS Alum Jannali Jones in 2014. For the past 4 years, I have been the primary carer for our daughter, Yenda. She and I are now both getting ready for our next adventures, her starting school, and my new career as a lawyer. PS: Yenda started at IGS Early Learning in 2025!
Braian Szwarcberg-Poch – Class of 2001
After leaving IGS in 2001, I did an Economics degree at the University of Western Sydney. I ended up working in London for a few years and then returned to Australia to work with Ernst and Young. I am now married with two children and have had a battle with cancer. Fairly recently, I made the decision to work full-time with the company of my wife, Alexandra. Allie’s Cold Pressed Juices is making inroads, having been imbibed by members of the Royal family at the Opera House and being taken on by Qantas First Class. I’m still mates with guys from my IGS days, including Yassin Ghomari and Daniel Voysey.
Sybilla Wajon – Class of 2017
I wrapped up my time at IGS in 2017, where academics weren’t exactly my forte—just ask any of my teachers! Instead, I threw myself into every extracurricular imaginable: Theatresports Club, Shakespeare Club, and yes, I was a founding member of the legendary K-pop Club. After a lackluster stint at a traditional university, I realised lectures just weren’t my jam. So, I took a leap and applied to NIDA for a BFA in Technical Theatre and Stage Management. Despite starting with a little lighting know-how, I found my groove in Stage Management and never looked back.
Since graduating, I’ve been lucky enough to work on some award-winning productions and tour all over Australia. Rubbing elbows with the likes of Hugo Weaving, Justine Clarke and Sigrid Thronton has been wild. I have also called shows at the Sydney Opera House, in the same theatre where I once sat in awe during Year 10.
Looking back on my high school days, memories of Year 12 graduation dances, playing Widow Corney in the first IGS musical Oliver!, and winning the Spirit of Artsfest still bring a smile to my face. My time at IGS has undeniably shaped who I am today; as Mr Galea rightly said, clubs truly do change lives.
