Meet Our Team of Dedicated Volunteers, Staff & Youth Leaders
We are a dedicated team of refugee-background youth, professionals, and advocates committed to empowering young people across Aotearoa. Our work is driven by a shared passion for creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
Our Board of Trustees
Fahima Muse
Fahima is a dedicated occupational therapist. Originally from Somalia, she moved to New Zealand with her family under the refugee quota. Her background has fueled her passion for supporting and empowering youth. Fahima has extensive experience working in various government departments and believes in the power of mentorship.
Mohanarathy Thurairajah
Mohanarathy is a first-year Law and Arts student at the University of Otago. Born in Sri Lanka, she moved to New Zealand with her father under the refugee quota. Her experience has driven her passion to support others from refugee backgrounds and inspired her to pursue a career in immigration law.
Samah Yahia
Originally from Yemen and Somalia, Samah spent her early years in Ethiopia, gaining a unique understanding of the challenges faced by refugee youth. Currently completing her final semester in Educational Psychology at Victoria University of Wellington, Samah is committed to creating environments where refugee youth can thrive.
Taim Lightwood
Our Staff
Daniel Gamboa
As the Chief Executive Officer, Daniel leads the organization with a vision for a more inclusive Aotearoa where all refugee youth can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Yibeth Morales Ayala
Yibeth is a passionate young leader who arrived in New Zealand in 2014. She is dedicated to advocating for refugee rights and community empowerment. Yibeth has been a strong advocate for her community since her arrival and has spoken at Parliament to successfully advocate for an increase in the refugee quota.
Our Youth Leaders
Our dedicated youth leaders are the driving force behind our work in communities across New Zealand. They are passionate advocates for refugee youth, leading projects and initiatives that create positive change.
Auckland
Suraya Qasimi
Madiha Ali
Mohammad Amin
Hamdi Ahmed
Hanifa Salman Ali
Hamilton
Damascus Buhendwa
Emeline Kamukunda Musasumbwa
Enock Tuyisunge
Alliance Mwamikazi
Levin
Andres Gamba
Sergio Ascanio
Valentina Zambrano
Camila Gamba
Wellington
Yizney Morales Ayala
Dani Jimenez
Jenny Nguyen
Joseph Asfaw
William Pa
Christchurch
Amor Budiyanto
Soweda Mahjor
Yasaman Bagheri
Invercargill
Jimmy Shema
Become Part of Our Story
Are you passionate about making a difference? We are always looking for dedicated individuals to join our mission. Whether you're interested in volunteering, becoming a youth leader, or partnering with us, we'd love to hear from you.
Get in Touch