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Susie Barber Acedemic Portfolio And Professional Profile

  • Writer: Susie Barber
    Susie Barber
  • Feb 24
  • 3 min read

Susie Barber- Founder and Author
Susie Barber- Founder and Author

Susie Barber – Academic Portfolio & Professional Profile

Susie Barber, formerly known as Susie Wilson, is the founder of the acclaimed Susie Wilson Finishing School in Melbourne and serves as director of The Susie B Finishing School Of Etiquette (www.susiebarberetiquetteexpert.com). Internationally recognised as an author, researcher, speaker, and etiquette expert, Barber has set the benchmark for executive leadership and etiquette training in Australia and beyond. Her programs integrate social intelligence, cross-cultural protocol, and leadership for corporate, academic, and private clients worldwide.

Barber’s work is guided by the philosophy: “Society creates ‘norms’, and it is human nature to want to meet those norms. Following my methods takes the concept further—stand out, shine, and flourish with that extra polish and sophistication.”


Deeply rooted in classic deportment yet attuned to contemporary needs, Barber’s approach blends Victorian-era principles with the demands of modern society. Her expertise is sought after by corporate executives, academic institutions, private clubs, and individuals of all ages. Since the early 1990s, she has taught courses in model development, self-esteem, deportment, and body image, managed national pageants, and provided etiquette coaching for high-profile events, including the Miss World Australia Pageant in Melbourne.

Barber’s academic foundation in medical sciences has provided a profound understanding of human psychology and behaviour—informing her evidence-based approach to professional and social protocol. This interdisciplinary perspective underpins her commitment to equipping both youth and adults with the skills needed to navigate complex social environments.


Her instructional repertoire addresses contemporary challenges, including peer group dynamics, cyberbullying, digital citizenship, and media pressures. She is dedicated to safeguarding traditional manners and social graces, recognising their enduring value in fostering self-esteem and social competence among children and adolescents. Her training for adults includes advanced professional skills in interview preparation, networking, business etiquette, formal dining, and nonverbal communication.

Barber is the author of three influential non-fiction works:

  • Death Row: Lives, Loss, and the Future of Justice (2024)

  • Silenced No More: Unveiling the Taboo of Childhood Sexual Abuse and Rebuilding Trust (2025)

  • Modern Manners: Navigating the Digital Age for Gen Z (2025)


Her research and advocacy have been featured in leading publications, including Justice Quarterly, The Guardian, The Atlantic, and The New York Times. Notable articles include:

  • “Restorative Justice on Death Row: Lessons from Inside” (Justice Quarterly, 2025)

  • “Digital Civility for Gen Z: Navigating Empathy in a Connected World” (The Guardian, 2024)

  • “Trauma, Memory, and the Future of Prison Reform” (The Atlantic, 2023)

  • “Breaking the Silence: Survivors and the Path to Healing” (The New York Times, 2022)

  • “Luxury, Protocol, and Soft Power in International Relations” (Diplomatic Review, 2021)


In 2025, Barber was appointed Ambassador for The Louise Nicholas Trust (www.louisenicholastrust.org.nz), where she contributes expertise in survivor advocacy and restorative justice. As a keynote speaker for International Women’s Day (Speaker Profile: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Speaker/2698/Susie-Barber), she is widely recognised for inspiring audiences with her focus on dignity, resilience, and transformative change.

Barber’s approach—grounded in academic rigour, narrative insight, and practical leadership—has shaped national and international dialogues on justice, equity, and human-centred policy. Her passion for education is reflected in her work with both children and adults, empowering them to become articulate, confident, and self-assured.

For more information, resources, or to connect:

Acknowledgments


Appreciation is extended to The Louise Nicholas Trust for the honour of serving as Ambassador and to all survivors, advocates, and professionals whose courage and candour have informed this work. Special thanks to colleagues, research partners, and reviewers for their scholarly guidance and to the communities whose support has made this work possible.

Bibliography


Books by Susie Barber:

  • Barber, S. (2024). Death Row: Lives, Loss, and the Future of American Justice.

  • Barber, S. (2025). Silenced No More: Unveiling the Taboo of Childhood Sexual Abuse and Rebuilding Trust.

  • Barber, S. (2025). Modern Manners: Navigating the Digital Age for Gen Z.

Articles by Susie Barber:

  • Barber, S. (2025). “Restorative Justice on Death Row: Lessons from Inside.” Justice Quarterly.

  • Barber, S. (2024). “Digital Civility for Gen Z: Navigating Empathy in a Connected World.” The Guardian.

  • Barber, S. (2023). “Trauma, Memory, and the Future of Prison Reform.” The Atlantic.

  • Barber, S. (2022). “Breaking the Silence: Survivors and the Path to Healing.” The New York Times.

  • Barber, S. (2021). “Luxury, Protocol, and Soft Power in International Relations.” Diplomatic Review.

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