An exciting milestone in Athletes For Hope Australia's (AFHA) journey was reached in March, with Lynne Anderson, Sally Phillips, Matt Butterworth, Sunil Menon and Lauren Gandini appointed to the AFHA Board as Non-Executive Directors.
After a comprehensive Expression Of Interest and interview process, the five new Directors will join AFHA Chairwoman Lisa Hasker, Malcolm Speed, Chris Downes, Iain Roy and Laura Johnston on the Board. Lisa believes the new Directors bring critical knowledge and insights at an important time for AFHA.
"In a great period of growth for AFHA, their diverse skills, expertise and lived experiences will enhance our governance and strategy. They were selected not only for their knowledge, but their belief in our mission and vision. Our first Board meeting together reflected this commitment, as well as the energy and enthusiasm that this group will bring to drive AFHA forward."
With expertise across community engagement, athlete wellbeing and mental health, marketing, governance, fundraising, social impact, athlete management and sports administration, the group have had diverse experiences and roles throughout the sporting industry, Not For Profit sector and beyond.
Former Paralympics Australia CEO Lynne Anderson feels a strong affinity to AFHA's mission to empower a community of purpose-led athletes to contribute with impact to causes, communities and charities.
"I am very honoured to be joining AFHA. Over my career I have seen the power of the athlete to inspire us all, not just on their chosen sporting fields but also off it. To be a part of empowering athletes to recognise and use their potential to have positive impacts in the community is special for me," said Lynne.
Sunil Menon, Head of Community at Melbourne City Football Club, has seen first hand how athletes can create impact for the causes, communities and charities they care about.
“Throughout my career I have been fortunate to work with athletes from different sports, backgrounds, and experiences. Some have incredible stories, knowledge, and passion for projects both inside and outside their sport but are unsure how to do so, or where to make the first step. Personally, sport has been something I’ve spent my whole life involved in and the impact that it has had on me is something I am forever grateful for.
At a time when the athletes voice has never been more amplified, being on the board of Athletes for Hope Australia excites me greatly, as there is an opportunity to harness the goodwill of athletes, clubs and leagues for more coordinated, structured and powerful contributions to community.”
Stay tuned to learn more about AFHA's new Directors, with profiles to follow in the coming months. For more information or to get in touch, contact us us at hello@athletesforhope.org.au
