An experienced leader in multi-disciplinary roles at a senior executive level, Wendy brings extensive management and business operations experience, excellent networks and a substantial track record in stakeholder relations across the government, business and for purpose sectors. With a career built around the power of education as a catalyst for change and a passionate commitment to regional and rural Australia, Wendy believes the Country Education Foundation’s focus on enabling local communities to support rural and regional youth to access further education, career and personal development opportunities is a simple and compelling proposition.
Wendy holds formal qualifications in Social Sciences (BEd), Business and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She serves on a number of Boards and Expert Panels that have an Education and/or regional development focus.
“We know that Country Education Foundation’s focus on enabling local communities to support youth from rural, regional and remote areas to access further education, training and work is impactful and creates change.”
Deb has extensive experience in finance management with many years in both private industry & government in rural NSW. She is an active participant with Zonta International, a global service and advocacy organisation focusing on the advancement of women of which education is a key factor. Deb continues her professional work with CEF in semi-retirement as it is a great opportunity for her to contribute to an organisation that shares her value of educational equality.
“I believe a professionally run organisation can best serve our communities and provide the essential support the young people in rural Australia need to reach their potential.”
Lisa is a country girl with corporate and consulting experience in marketing and communications. She is passionate about rural and regional students achieving their dreams through her work with our foundations and their volunteers. As a genuine communicator, Lisa relies on her strong relationships to facilitate positive impact. This extends to our generous partners to discover how we can achieve our mutually beneficial goals.
“A society that invests in the education of their youth makes for richer, stronger, more vibrant communities. The greater our network the more positive our impact.”
Donna has over 25 years of experience in the health sector, working in administration, statistical data, project management and information technology. She has a love for regional Australia and learning more through meeting people and communities while travelling. She enjoys working with everyone at CEF and the foundations as each person is working towards a common goal – to guide students to a better future. She believes that these warm and genuine connections made though CEF are vital to its success.
“I believe our students are the future and they will bring something wonderful to it. One of my favourite quotes is:
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” —A.A. Milne”
Born and raised in Central West NSW, Hilary has always had a passion for regional development, especially in improving youth education outcomes. Armed with a Master of Commerce (Corporate Communications) from Charles Sturt University and extensive experience in public relations and the higher education sector, she is determined to see regional youth succeed, no matter what their dreams might be. Hilary believes in the impact of authentic communication and ensuring that all partnerships are relevant to achieving organisational objectives.
““Investing in our regional youth means great advancement in our local communities. Education is much more than a piece of paper – it unlocks incredible opportunities for young people and gives them the power to make decisions about how they choose to live their life.””
Zanna’s experience is in driving impactful initiatives, with a passion for creating meaningful connections to make a tangible difference in the lives of those she works with. Combining her experience in marketing, partnership development, and engagement, Zanna possesses a unique set of skills that enable her to not only create compelling campaigns but also effectively engage with diverse audiences.
Zanna is dedicated to expanding the horizons of the CEF alumni and opening doors to new and exciting opportunities that align with their career aspirations. She firmly believes that through strategic partnerships and a deep understanding of our stakeholders, we can foster an environment that nurtures growth and success. Zanna is a country girl from the New England region with a love of a good sporting event!
“CEF students not only have the financial backing of their community but the confidence of the community to help them succeed. It is incredibly rewarding to play a part in the future careers of the CEF students and alumni.”
Johanna joins CEF as Acting Community Specialist, utilising her strong background in communications and small business mentorship to support committees and students.
An advocate of for-purpose work, Johanna founded her own business in 2015 called Make Do Co., a coaching business offering workplace programs, 1-1 coaching, online courses and wellness retreats.
A believer in the potent combination of purpose, passion and high performance, Johanna loves nothing more than seeing people thrive doing work that fulfills them.
In her role at CEF, Johanna is excited to apply her diverse skills in stakeholder engagement, communications and design, and coaching and career development; to empower young people to pursue meaningful careers and support CEF’s volunteer foundations in their work to positively impact local communities.
Johanna holds a Bachelor of Arts (English / Gender Studies) from Sydney University, a Masters of Arts in Communications (Management) from UTS and a Cert IV in Visual Design from Shillington College. Johanna is a certified Yoga Instructor, an occasional MC, a mum to three girls and a budding gardener in the Permaculture framework.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and be empowered by a new awareness gained through education. We all benefit when young people thrive in their study and work.”
For close to thirty years, Naomi lived on a property at Come By Chance near Walgett, and although she loved the remoteness and the way of life, she is all too aware of the difficulties of living ‘in the bush’ and the challenges that face the youth of remote areas in acquiring appropriate secondary and tertiary education.
This awareness has made her truly appreciate the work the CEF is doing and with an extensive knowledge of all things admin, she is keen to play her part in helping the organisation continue with its good work. She especially enjoys the daily chats with committee members who she sees as the backbone of the organisation and are striving continually to give their youth the prospect of a brighter future.
“I am truly amazed at the generosity of people, who are willing to donate their time and/or their money to help young rural people realise their dreams.”
Sarah has experience in the services and facility management sector and has a range of expertise in administration, customer services and data management. She is focused on the community engagement sphere and is always looking to sustain and build relationships in rural and regional communities. Sarah is a bubbly and energetic character who is eager to assist others and thrives on being a part of a collaborative and vibrant team. She is the friendly voice you will hear when you call and with her strong administrative background, she can be called on to resolve any issues that arise.
“Currently on maternity leave until November 2025.”
