Our Team
Dr Genevieve Nelson - Executive Director
The Foundation's executive director is Dr Genevieve Nelson. Genevieve is one of the founding directors of the Foundation and has been the Executive Director since January 2009. Genevieve holds a doctorate in cross-cultural and educational psychology from the University of Western Sydney and is an expert in education in Papua New Guinea. She also has a Bachelor Degree in Psychology (Honours). Genevieve is an Adjunct Research Fellow with the University of Western Sydney as well as a Registered Psychologist. She has published extensively and presented at national and international conferences about her experience in PNG. She has walked the Kokoda Track 14 times.
Petra Arifeae - Project Officer
Petra Arifeae joined the Foundation in 2011 and works on the Foundation's PNG programs in education, health, community development and microbusiness. Petra has a Bachelor Degree in Education (Queensland University of Technology), a Diploma in Business Management (Divine Word University) and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (NSW TAFE). Petra has over 16 years professional experience in the PNG education system and has held roles including Schools Advisor with the International Education Agency of Papua New Guinea, School Principal of Rabaul International School, and Deputy Principal of Gordon International School. She is a qualified trainer and assessor and has extensive experience in providing teacher induction and training programmes in PNG as well as developing and conducting professional development courses for teaching. Petra is from the Oro Province in PNG.
Kelly Leonard - Executive Assistant
Kelly Leonard joined the Foundation in 2011 is our Executive Assistant. Kelly runs our office in Sydney and manages our partnerships and scholarship programs. Kelly has a Diploma of Art, Graduate Diploma of Art and Education, and Masters of Visual Arts and Arts Management. Kelly has spent time in Papua New Guinea and was a volunteer for ABV on a community art and craft mapping project. She has experience in microbusiness projects in developing countries and a great understanding of PNG culture.
Julie Sourdois - Communications Officer (Intern)
Julie Sourdois has been working as our Communications Officer (Intern) since March 2011. She is originally from France and is currently studying at the University of Technology, Sydney. Julie is completing a double Bachelor of Business: after studying 2 years in France, she is currently finishing her second year in Australia, double majoring in Marketing and Tourism. She will be graduated in July 2012, with both a French and an Australian bachelor. Julie is responsible for the Foundation's website and social networking sites. She enjoys travelling and have already been on the five continents. However, she never went to PNG and can't wait to discover this beautiful country!