Leadership — Duku Forè Foundation

Board of Directors

Strategic storytellers and governance experts

Governance Advocacy Community Voice

Our board blends lived experience, corporate stewardship, and influence across health, sustainability, and creative industries. Together they ensure every decision advances the dream, believe, achieve mission.

Chair

Duku Forè GAICD

Duku Forè is an international speaker, author of two books, and a two-time TEDx speaker who has represented Australia as a UN Delegate at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Business Management from Queensland University of Technology and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Company Directors Course. Having overcome a speech impediment to become a professional speaker, Duku's journey from adversity to impact continues to inspire leaders and organisations to embrace purpose and possibility.

Board Member

Aurelia Noran GAICD

Aurelia is an executive and project development professional with over 25 years of experience across infrastructure, utilities, and sustainability-focused ventures. She holds a Master of Business Administration (with Distinction) from Griffith University and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Company Directors Course. Aurelia is also a certified Gateway Reviewer for state and federal government projects, contributing to public infrastructure and resource delivery. She is passionate about driving strategic innovation and creating a sustainable future for communities and the planet.

Board Member

Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM

Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM is an Australian doctor, lawyer, scientist, and disability advocate. He is Queensland’s first quadriplegic medical intern and the second person with quadriplegia to graduate as a doctor in Australia. A strong voice for inclusion and access, Dinesh was named the 2021 Queensland Australian of the Year and has received numerous honours including the Medal of the Order of Australia. His autobiography Stronger was published by Pan Macmillan in 2022. Dinesh is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ Company Directors Course.

Board Member

Olivia Johnson

Olivia Johnson is a dynamic HR and Business Management professional dedicated to empowering others through leadership, storytelling, and social impact. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Management and brings extensive experience in organisational strategy, diversity, and inclusion. Olivia is the founder of Community Partners, a charity supporting CALD communities, and the owner of Olive Solutions Consultancy. A writer and speaker, she shares her insights on growth, inclusion, and resilience through her memoir Echoes of Resilience.

Executive Team

Operational excellence with heart

Operations Community Impact

Our executive leaders convert strategy into day-to-day magic—mobilising volunteers, partners, and dreamers across continents while safeguarding wellbeing.

Chief Executive Officer

Edward Mponda

Stakeholder Engagement & Community Architect

Edward Mponda is an accomplished leader in Stakeholder Engagement, Community and Public Relations, Strategic Planning, and Crisis Management. With over a decade of experience across corporate, government, and not-for-profit sectors, he brings a 360-degree understanding of communications and organisational strategy. Edward holds a Master of Communication in Public Relations and Professional Communications from The University of Queensland and a Master of Science in Strategic Management from the University of Derby. His expertise and inclusive leadership continue to advance the Foundation’s mission and strengthen its community impact.

Engage a Leadership Member

Whether for media interviews, keynote speaking, advisory panels, or community collaborations — our leadership team is available to contribute their expertise and insight, subject to availability. Get in touch to organise an engagement.

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