About Ginkgo Collective
Where science, learning and human connection come together.
Our Purpose
Applied neuroscience learning shapes the approach we take at Ginkgo Collective, bringing together science and human experience. We help people understand their nervous system, build resilience and experience growth in a way that feels grounded and accessible.
Our work brings together research from psychophysiology, behavioural neuroscience and wellbeing with experiential practices that help concepts land in the body.
What We Create
One-day workshops
- Experiential learning events
- Applied science sessions
- Opportunities for connection and reflection
- Future courses and an online community through The Ginkgo Circle
These experiences are designed to help people understand themselves and others with more depth.
Our Values
Scientific integrity
Everything we teach is anchored in evidence.
Accessibility
Ideas are delivered in a clear, usable way for everyone.
Connection
Learning deepens in community through shared experience.
Resilience
Inspired by the ginkgo tree, we focus on strength and renewal.
Joy
Learning should feel enriching rather than clinical.
Our Story
Ginkgo Collective was founded by Robert Hawkes and Mary Walsh. Both share a commitment to creating environments where people can learn through clarity, evidence and meaningful experience.
As co-founders, Robert and Mary hold the balance between structure and humanity. They ensure every workshop feels supportive, clear and rooted in research while creating space for people to connect and explore.
Robert Hawkes
Co Founder
Robert has over 20 years’ experience leading marketing across finance, technology, sustainability and professional education.
Since 2015, he has also been Chief Marketing Officer at Professional Counselling & Psychotherapy Seminars Ireland (PCPSI), one of Ireland’s largest providers of evidence-based CPD for mental health professionals in over 55 countries.
He advises and leads strategy for organisations in Ireland, UK and the US, serving as Fractional CMO for several brands through phases of growth, repositioning, and international expansion. His clients span sectors including sustainable manufacturing, professional services, financial services, recruitment, agriculture and technology.
Mary Walsh
Co Founder
Mary is the Founder and Director of The Gab, a not-for-profit storytelling community that fosters inclusion, creativity and connection through live events and workshops.
Previously, she led operations at Professional Counselling & Psychotherapy Seminars Ireland (PCPSI), delivering large-scale professional learning programmes, and held project management roles with University College Cork and HCL Technologies & Microsoft.
Mary works at the intersection of community, culture, and operational excellence, connecting people and ideas through shared experience.
