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

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

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

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

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

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.
Adam Awad

Adam Awad – Refugee Communities Leader. Refugee Resettlement expert (planning and delivering services).
Our staff
Judah Seomeng

022 0657 831
Demeysa Ahmed

0220288594
Rahela Khalili

0223970859
Clench Enoka

0221040975
Hafsar Tameesuddin

020 4113 053
Kodrean Eashae

022 612 3240
Nadia Al-Rubayee

Jacqueline (Jacqs) Wilton

Catherine Green

Kate Twyford

kate.twyford@crf.org.nz
0275 525 972
Susan Clare

susan.clare@crf.org.nz
027 627 3971
Mylène Baland

022 522 5066
Batool Arif

batool.arif@crf.org.nz
027 552 5890