Meet our Team

John has broad experience having worked in the private, government and not-for-profit sectors. Specialising in strategic planning, building stakeholder relationships and managing change for business improvement, John is using his ‘numbers brain’, people skills and technical knowledge at PACT.

John’s early career included working as a financial analyst, economist and programmer for Thompson Reuters, before moving onto senior management roles with superannuation and financial planning companies. After a period of restructuring an aged care provider and an employment services provider, John later worked in executive positions within customer services, workers compensation and corporate service areas.

Outside of work, John is an active father to two slightly spoiled girls and enjoys martial arts, gymnastics, wakeboarding, skateboarding and flowriding, although John is quick to point out he doesn’t bounce like he used to, so it might be time to start acting his age…

Dev comes from a trade and services background and has completed tertiary studies in Psychology. He moved to Brisbane in 2019 from his hometown of Auckland, New Zealand.

Dev joined PACT in 2021 to take on the role of Volunteer Coordinator for Brisbane. He’s excited to work alongside PACT’s volunteers and wider team to help make a positive impact for children and families that PACT supports by bringing our volunteer community closer and building a stronger volunteer network.

Samantha has more than 20 years’ experience in not-for-profit finance and accounting, and over 30 years’ experience in accounting and HR roles.  She is passionate about working in the non-profit sector, in particular working with children and young people, which has been her focus for the majority of her career including working with residential care facilities and employment services.

Samantha enjoys the ability to manage the operational aspects of PACT, giving her contact with PACT’s volunteers. Sam joined PACT in 2013, and enjoys the varied aspect of her role.

Danielle Kershaw (Danni) officially joined PACT in mid-2010 after working with PACT for six months in a casual, part-time capacity as an administrator.  She enjoyed the role of Office Administrator until the end of 2017 when she took on the challenge of Volunteer Coordinator for Greater Brisbane, a position she enjoyed greatly working to recruit, train and manage PACT’s Child Witness Support Volunteers.

In June 2020 Danni decided to step back into the role of Administration Officer. Danielle possesses a Bachelor of Education – Primary and successfully completed a Certificate IV in Volunteer Coordination in 2016.

Alicia is an experienced journalist and PR/communications specialist with a background in non-profit and fundraising management. She has worked for a number of not-for-profits in Australia and the US, driving their mission through storytelling and targeted communications, marketing and fundraising. She has worked in outdoor education, directing a summer camp and facilitating ropes courses, archery, water sports, team building workshops and leadership training.

Alicia has a Master’s in Creative Writing focused on social justice issues, a Bachelor of Communications in Journalism and a Cert IV in Training & Assessment. From being raised all over the world, Alicia has seen firsthand the disparity which exists between those with access to resources and education and the many who don’t. She is passionate about championing causes that drive social change on a fundamental level, particularly issues involving children and vulnerable groups. She loves working with an organisation that aligns closely with her values and desire to make a positive imPACT.