“I ask future teachers: what do you want your legacy to be? Not in terms of the lessons you teach or how far you climb the educational ladder, but rather, how will you measure your legacy by how your students remember you?”

— Karina Barley, PhD

How wise are you? 63 Years Wise

Where are you from? Frankston, Victoria.

Bio: Karina is an internationally recognised educational consultant specialising in the needs of children with autism. With over 30 years of experience as an educator, private consultant, and course developer, she excels at creating behavioural, sensory, and educational strategies that empower children to reach their full potential. Her personable approach, combined with extensive research and firsthand experience, allows her to tailor innovative solutions for families and schools. Karina’s passion for autism education has also led her to explore the transformative role of technology in enhancing learning opportunities.

In addition to her consulting work, Karina is a sought-after public speaker and trainer, sharing her insights on topics like Technology and Autism, Autism Awareness, and 21st Century Education at conferences in the U.S. and Australia. She holds a PhD from Monash University, where she has also served as an Associate Teacher since 2015. Outside her professional life, Karina is a mother of four and a grandmother to three. She loves to travel, enjoy movies and theatre, and has recently taken up the art of Zentangle, blending creativity with her busy life.

What about your life would you like to celebrate most? I feel there’s so much I could celebrate but I’m particularly proud of my 35+ year education career. I’m grateful that I’ve undertaken what seems like a lifetime on my educational endeavours, especially achieving my doctorate at 58 years old.

I equally celebrate being a Mum (and hopefully mentor) to 4 adult children - I’m impressed that they are all caring, empathetic and passionate people who are making their own stamp on the world. I’m lucky to be mother-in-law to my children’s partners – I respect each of them and they are happy inclusions to our quirky family.

Being a Grandy to 3 grandbabies (so far) has enriched my life and capacity to love exponentially. They bring me so much joy and give me an excuse to revisit my childhood again.

What 3 words best describe you in this phase of your life? Creative, still evolving & always passionate.

What do you love about this time of life?: I love that I am the most content I’ve ever been. I’m a grateful for the relationships I have with all my family members.

I love that I was able to overcome my life’s many challenges and the recognition that I was more resilient than I thought. I’m grateful for the gift of having a keen intellect and an inquiring mind that has always sustained me.

I’m still passionate about teaching (future educators) and advocating for equity and equality for disabled people.

I am satisfied that I discovered that I really didn’t need anyone to help me during my life; I am happy to say, knowing I could help myself has been my greatest epiphanies.

The bad – Just when I thought I was content it seems life has other plans – I’m currently on the quest for my newest adventure!

I dislike that now I feel happy emotionally, my body is NOT so happy.