Oaktree is led by passionate young changemakers across the country

Vanh is a social and emotional intelligence coach, facilitator, and entrepreneur committed to fostering inclusivity and self-leadership. Founder of Yes Everyone Matters (YesEM), a social venture promoting cross-generational collaboration and innovative education, Vanh works to ensure everyone feels heard and respected. YesEM offers development programs and creative inclusion initiatives, emphasizing equality and empowerment for all voices.

Nikki, a dedicated Oaktree volunteer from 2011-2015, boasts over a decade of expertise as a measurement, evaluation, and learning specialist in international development. Operating across the Asia Pacific, her diverse background spans youth empowerment, education, governance, natural resource management, and health advocacy. Committed to equity and inclusion, Nikki amplifies the voices of marginalized communities, striving for meaningful change and social justice.

Christos, a Senior Manager at Global Victoria, specializes in guiding businesses to expand globally. With a background spanning economic development, international trade policy, and diverse government roles in the UK and Australia, he brings a wealth of experience. Additionally, as the Regional Director for the Chief of Staff Association, he contributes to a global network of influential advisers. Christos recently joined Oaktree after completing the AICD Directors Course.

Zahra, a Duke University Fellow, is a global advocate for gender equality and youth governance. Recognized in the UN Women 30 for 2030 cohort, she's a board director for Missing Perspectives and the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. Zahra received the Under 25 Asian Australian of the Year award in 2021 and the Australian Woman in Excellence title in 2023. Her impactful work at the intersection of faith and climate justice has been featured in Vogue, Gucci, and Al Jazeera.

Lucie, Co-CEO at Oaktree since March 2023, holds an Arts degree in Politics and Asian Studies. Passionate about amplifying the youth perspective, she advocates for social, environmental, and political issues. Lucie is proud of her work at Oaktree, focusing on empowering young people in the Asia-Pacific to lead and drive change in their communities.

Patrick, Oaktree's Chief Advocacy Officer since February 2023, leverages his expertise in international affairs and the Asia-Pacific region for sustainable development. With a Bachelor's in Politics & International Studies and Asian Studies, he commenced Honours research in political ecology, emphasizing sustainable resource management in Southeast Asia. .

Osh, initially a Finance Analyst at Oaktree from February 2022, transitioned to the role of COO. Simultaneously pursuing a Master's in Data Science at Monash University, he works as an Investment Intern at Square Peg, a global Venture Capital Fund. Osh, with a background in volunteering and a passion for analytics, aims to transform organizational identity to be more inclusive and humane. Balancing a busy schedule, Osh dreams of being a barista in an alternate universe and enjoys Quentin Tarantino flicks.

Ava serves as the Business Development Manager at Oaktree, focusing on empowering youth in the Asia-Pacific for transformative change. Additionally, as a Program Coordinator at the International Women’s Development Agency, she supports gender equality efforts in the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste. Ava, with an Arts degree in politics and development studies, passionately advocates for decolonizing development and creating a world where collaborative efforts overcome structural inequality.

Lawrence, part of Oaktree since June 2021, holds various roles in the finance team. Currently pursuing a master's in economics, he also works as a part-time youth worker and volunteers with not-for-profits. Passionate about international development, Lawrence strongly believes in empowering youth to drive change in their communities and is dedicated to advancing Oaktree's impactful mission.

Gemma, an adept Business and Strategic Advisor with over 15 years in Australia's Non-Profit and for-Purpose sector, brings extensive experience supporting organizations from inception to growth. Joining the Oaktree Board in late 2022, she concurrently serves as a Board member for Eat Up Australia, showcasing her commitment to contributing to impactful initiatives within the community.

Manasi Kogekar, an Oaktree Board member since September 2022, brings over 12 years of experience in the international aid and development sector. Passionate about challenging norms, she advocates for inclusive grassroots programs. Manasi has successfully supported organizations in Asia and the Pacific, securing funding for programs promoting the rights and empowerment of women, children, youth, and people with disabilities. 

Thenu, former Oaktree CEO and current Campaign Manager for the Global Citizen Asia-Pacific Youth Summit, is pursuing her Juris Doctor at the University of Melbourne. Her focus on international law, climate, and migration is complemented by roles as Board Director at Green Collect and the Australian Council for International Development. Co-author of Australia’s first youth national security strategy, she highlights climate, health, and social factors as key threats. Recognized with the Faculty of Arts ‘Rising Star’ Alumni award in 2022, Thenu is acknowledged as one of Australia’s Young Women to Watch in International Affairs.