Our People

CRF is governed by 8-10 Board members. As a refugee-led organisation, 80% of our Board is composed of people from refugee backgrounds who represent the interests of all refugee-background communities, rather than merely the communities they belong to.

Our board

Adam Awad

Patron

Adam Awad is a founder of ChangeMakers and has been involved in leading and developing refugee background communities locally, regionally and nationally, with over two decades of community leadership, management, strategic oversight and field experience in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Adam is driven by the challenges of unlocking the potential of refugee background communities and, through professional and honest discussions, to achieve a best possible outcomes for everyone. He has a strong relationship with stakeholders, government and the philanthropic sector.

Adam holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and is completing his postgraduate Diploma for Management of Not-for-profit Organisations.

Mardia Abdulaziz

Board Member

My name is Mardiya from the Somali community, currently studying a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and was born in New Zealand. It’s such a pleasure to be representing the community as a youth and I hope to inspire more youth to be on different board groups too.

Amin Vakili

Board Member

Amin Vakili is passionate about supporting the Afghan Community, organising social, educational and wellbeing activities for community members including youth and women. His aim is to increase inter-community interactions for a better cohesive Aotearoa.

Shahd El-Matary

Board Chair

I’m passionate about using my blessings to help those around me to the best of my ability. I hold a BA (majoring in Political Science, International Relations and English Literature) from Victoria University and an MBA (Defence and Security) from Massey University.

Ameha Wondirad

Deputy Chair

My name is Ameha Wondirad. I am a member of the Executive Committee of the Ethiopian Community in Wellington. I have extensive experience in the legal profession. I am passionate about community development and love working with refugees helping them for a smooth integration in their new county of settlement.