Meet Mama Respond.
Our dedicated team at Mama Respond International are integral to developing and achieving our goals as an organisation— to transform lives through improved health, quality education, and creating lasting independence. Read below to learn about the key individuals who have helped make Mama Respond what it is today, by bolstering our empowerment of children with special needs and their families, each bringing something invaluable to us in their own way.
Founding Director, CEO
Erin Hegarty
Erin is a dynamic force in the Perth community, driven by an unyielding passion for transforming lives through grassroots initiatives and community empowerment. As the Manager of Mama Respond, she leads with a vision that is both bold and compassionate, ensuring that the organisation's mission to uplift the special needs community is realised in impactful, sustainable ways. Her studies profoundly influenced her approach to community development in International Relations at the University of Western Australia, where she discovered the transformative power of communities owning their destinies.
Erin's leadership at Mama Respond is marked by creativity and a deep connection to the people she serves. Her extensive experience spans family and domestic violence advocacy, healthcare, and housing, equipping her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. She believes real change happens when communities are not just participants but leaders in their development. Her work goes beyond traditional charity—it's about igniting a sense of ownership and possibility within every person and community Mama Respond touches.
With a Performing and Visual Arts background, Erin brings a vibrant energy to everything she does. Whether on stage or in a community meeting, she knows how to inspire and unite people. Outside work, she delights in life's finer pleasures—savouring great food, enjoying fine wine, and sharing unforgettable moments with those around her.
Programs Coordinator, Kenya
Ann Mutheu
Ann has dedicated her recent years to improving community health, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and outreach. Her extensive Community Health and Development background has empowered her to collaborate effectively with diverse groups, addressing public health challenges with empathy and expertise.
Her passion for this work is deeply personal. As a mother caring for her daughter with Cerebral Palsy, Ann understands the unique challenges faced by the special needs community. Her lived experience extends to caring for her siblings, further deepening her commitment to advocating for health equity, social justice, and the transformative power of education and grassroots action.
As Project Coordinator Kenya for Mama Respond, Ann is dedicated to advancing the organisation's mission of enhancing health to improve education for the special needs community. She brings a wealth of knowledge, a compassionate heart, and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves.
Ann's journey with Mama Respond is driven by her unwavering belief in the potential of every individual, regardless of their challenges, to thrive with the right support and resources.
Healthcare leader, consultant and clinician, Daniel has led major systematic reforms across hospitals and government agencies. His expertise has been recognised internationally, being awarded for leveraging technology to enhance health care delivery of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr Daniel Jeffrey
Board Chair,
Finance Portfolio
Founder of Africar Logistics, Dennis is an expert on import & export across East Africa. Passionate about community development and his two daughters, Dennis is a member of the Rotary Club of Embakasi. Dennis brings an invaluable insight to Mama Respond by finding balance in his village, reconnecting with his roots.
Vice Chair,
Dennis Muturo
Import & Export Portfolio
Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with over 9 years of experience, Janet advances community rights and ensures legal protection for vulnerable communities. Her expertise spans public interest, disability rights and international compliance. Her work includes grant management, policy review and legal research.
Janet Kabaya
Treasurer,
Human Rights Portfolio
Sustainability and Decarbonisation manager in global food service, Hayley’s work in integral to delivering environmental responsibilities. With nearly 20 years of experience in WA’s Energy & Resources sector, she uses her wealth of knowledge to support businesses on their journey to sustainability leadership.
Hayley Borrisow
Board Member,
Sustainability Portfolio
Caroline is an Executive Leader and Commercial Project Director with 25 years of international experience. She is completing a Master of Construction Law and has received recognition for her contributions to the industry. Caroline also serves as Chair of the Society of Construction Law Australia and is a passionate advocate, volunteer, and industry leader.
Caroline Beaumaris
Board Member,
Law Portfolio
Irini Agollari is a risk and compliance executive and trained lawyer with 20 years' experience across fintech, financial services, and the not-for-profit sector. She holds a postgraduate degree in Economics and is a Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia. She currently leads the Risk and Compliance function at OrbitRemit and holds board roles at Food Innovation Australia and Swan Noir, her boutique risk advisory practice. A graduate of the AICD and the Chief Executive Women Leaders Program, Irini brings deep expertise in governance and strategy.
Irini Agollari
Board Member,
Risk Portfolio
Dr of the School of Pension and Retirement Studies, Edward is a distinguished leader in finance, governance and pensions. He serves on the Equity Group Holdings Board and Chairman of Equity Life Assurance Company LTD. With decades of experience, Dr Odundo brings immense value to Mama Respond, holding a PHD in Business Adminstration
Dr Edward Odundo
Board Member,
Finance Portfolio
Njoki has led an impressive 14 year career as a project and program specialist. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Community Psychology at Makere University and a Master’s degree in Gender Development, Njoki brings her expertise to aid Mama Respond in forming meaningful relationships with partners and community members.
Njoki E. Wachira
Board Member,
Partnership Portfolio
Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, majoring in HR and Accounting, Emilia uses her heartful passion towards her role as a Human Resources and Operations Manager in the Youth Services and Disability industry. Serving as HR for Mama Respond WA, she fosters a supportive environment while ensuring smooth operations.
Emilia Saunders
Human Relations,
Australia
Veronica brings over 17 years of experience in general Human Resource management in both international and regional contexts. HR manager of Mama Respond Kenya, she plays a crucial role in ensuring that our strategies support our mission and values, bringing an expertise in organisational culture and talent development.
Veronica Kalekye
Human Relations,
Kenya
CEO of the Winnungari Aboriginal Organisation, Jason leads with a deep commitment to improving the lives of Aboriginal Communities within Australia. Strongly passionate about creating positive change, he fosters opportunities for those in need. His leadership is driven by his genuine desire to empower the marginalised.
Jason Davison
Ambassador
Diane Avice
Ambassador
Certified Life Coach, Inclusion & Accessibility Advocate, Ciara has a passion for empowering others. She provides a platform for individuals living with disabilities to share their stories of resilience, inspiring them via her powerful online presence. Her work centers on breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity.
Ciara Galega
Ambassador
With over 15 years of experience creating social impact and managing programs, Anne is a Senior Advisor for the State Government, where her strategic insights have shaped policies across the community, industry and financial programs. She is dedicated to alleviating hardship for our Strong Mamas and the lives of Children.
Anne Jepokech Tonje