Our Team
Get to know the passionate and dedicated individuals behind Neighbours Aid.
Our Leaders
Meet our team of compassionate leaders who bring their passion and expertise to every project and initiative.
Tara Van Der Vliet
Tara is a dedicated hospital pharmacist who possesses a profound passion for aiding individuals living in poverty. Having actively participated in various Neighbours Aid Service Trips, she deeply appreciates the enriching opportunities they have provided. While initially drawn to the Pacific Islands, Tara’s experiences in Africa and India have ignited a love for these regions as well.
Moreover, she has recently established a national special interest group for hospital pharmacists interested in aid and volunteering, aiming to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among individuals who share a common dedication to improving healthcare for those in need.
Richard John O’Hara
John is a founding director of Neighbours Aid with over 40 years of experience in running a small business. He has also lent his expertise to a number of Not for Profit Boards, enhancing their performance with his industry insights. John’s qualifications are a testament to his skill set, including a Diploma in Horticulture and being a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).
Tenille Peni-Hudson
Tenille brings over 15 years of progressive career development in the private and nonprofit sectors, including executive roles in international aid and development organisations. With expertise in strategic planning, financial management, donor engagement, and risk management, she contributes valuable operational knowledge to our board.
Helen Hall
Helen is a practising psychologist, with a background in business management. Her experience with World Vision sparked her dedication to improving the lives of children in developing nations and promoting sustainable living. With four children of her own, Helen understands the importance of creating a better future for all. Helen serves on multiple nonprofit committees and boards, driven by her desire to empower individuals and enable them to live fulfilling lives.
Timothy McNamara – Board Chair
Tim is a pathologist and sits on the board of Nambour Christian College. He actively participates in Helping Hands Working Expeditions to Africa, where he shares his medical expertise with local staff.
Tim holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, as well as being a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia and possessing a Graduate Diploma in Computing. His commitment to healthcare and education drives his involvement in various initiatives that make a positive impact in communities.
Jesma O’Hara
Jesma is a founding director of Neighbours Aid and a founding director of the Nambour
Christian College Board, serving as chair from 2001-2022. She has also served on the ICEJ Australian Board for 20 years, bringing many years of experience as a board and committee member of Not-for-Profit organisations. Jesma is a wife to John, mother of 5 and grandmother of 4, and an internationally known speaker and writer of books and articles. She currently fills the role of Senior Project Manager at Neighbours Aid.
Store Managers
Introducing our remarkable store managers, that help drive our mission forward.
Gabrielle
Grant
Mel
Nina
Stephanie
Lisette
Jacqui
Jennie
Join The Team
Join our team of passionate volunteers and help us make a difference in the world. By working together, we can make a positive impact in our communities and beyond.
Our Volunteers
Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Our Purpose
Why We Do This
Neighbours Aid works with local people to tackle the root causes of poverty and injustice in order to provide a sustainable future for all people regardless of race, religion, or gender.
Our Mission
At Neighbours Aid, our mission is to empower vulnerable communities around the world through sustainable, life-changing projects. We envision a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Join us in making this vision a reality.
Our vision
Our vision at Neighbours Aid is to transform underprivileged children’s lives worldwide through education, healthcare, and vital initiatives. We empower leaders and raise funds through child sponsorship and op shops for lasting community impact.
Projects Building Communities
Kitale Family House of Hope
In Kenya, Neighbours Aid supports Kitale Family House of Hope,…