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
Trustee
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
Trustee
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
Trustee
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.
Our Staff
Daniel Gamboa
CEO
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
Engagement Lead
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
Leader (2024)
Madiha Ali
Leader (2023)
Mohammad Amin
Leader (2023)
Hamdi Ahmed
Leader (2024)
Hanifa Salman Ali
Leader (2024)
Hamilton
Damascus Buhendwa
Leader (2024)
Emeline Kamukunda
Leader (2024)
Enock Tuyisunge
Leader (2024)
Alliance Mwamikazi
Leader (2023)
Levin
Andres Gamba
Leader (2024)
Sergio Ascanio
Leader (2024)
Valentina Zambrano
Leader (2024)
Camila Gamba
Leader (2023)
Wellington
Yizney Morales
Leader (2024)
Dani Jimenez
Leader (2023)
Jenny Nguyen
Leader (2024)
Joseph Asfaw
Leader (2024)
William Pa
Leader (2024)
Christchurch
Amor Budiyanto
Leader (2024)
Soweda Mahjor
Leader (2024)
Yasaman Bagheri
Leader (2024)
Invercargill
Jimmy Shema
Leader (2024)
Gabby Hurtado
Leader (2023)
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