Board of Directors

Mr. Kevin Bell, with a Master’s in Education and a Bachelor’s in Business, brings 30 years of expertise in the Australian Vocational Education sector and 20 years of commendable service in the Australian Army. He has firsthand experience in disaster response, having served during events like the Ash Wednesday bushfires and Brisbane’s 2011 flood, which provided him with unique insights into disaster management. Kevin has supported numerous veterans in transitioning to civilian careers, equipping them with essential tools for professional success. A passionate advocate for education, he champions its role in creating sustainable futures for individuals and corporations globally.

Prof. Jeremy Novak is the Vice-Chancellor and President of Global Development College, Australia, and the International Chief Investigator for the UN Resilient Scorecard for Island Communities. He specializes in disaster risk leadership, strategic development, and smart city management, resilience, and adaptation. With extensive global experience, he has advised governments, CEOs, universities, and organizational boards, bringing innovative solutions to complex challenges. A leading voice in education and resilience, Prof. Novak is also an author of the UN Food Security and Public Health System Resilience Scorecards, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to sustainable development and capacity-building across diverse sectors worldwide.

With over 27 years of experience in domestic and international education, Ms Kenzie McLeod is a dedicated and passionate educator specialising in students with additional needs. Recognised as an expert in 'Students with Needs and Inclusive Education Practices', Kenzie has been honoured for her dedication, including being awarded Australian Educator of the Year in 2018 and receiving nominations in 2019 and 2020. She has also been recognised for her excellence in linguistics and language studies. Kenzie advocates for inclusive education and values, supporting students' lifelong learning journey while celebrating their diverse differences. Her involvement in United Nations projects focuses on developing the capacity of teachers in emerging nations.

Brigadier General (Ret.) Eric Tan, a decorated leader with the Singapore Armed Forces, brings extensive expertise in public administration, event leadership, and resilience planning. He has led significant projects, including the Singapore Sports Hub and Amaravati smart city initiatives. Renowned for his adaptability and team-building, Eric received the Public Administration Medal (Silver) for meritorious service and numerous commendations for his contributions to international events and peacekeeping missions. Currently, he fosters institutional development through the Amaravati Partnership Office, bridging Singapore and Andhra Pradesh to strengthen governance and infrastructure in India's emerging capital city.

His Excellency Sidney Collie, former Ambassador to the U.S. and Permanent Representative to the OAS, is a co-author of the UN Resilience Scorecard for Island Communities. With a background in education, law, and advocacy, his career began as a teacher before transitioning into law after championing improved working conditions in The Bahamas. A dedicated leader, he has leveraged his expertise to advocate for the less fortunate while fostering resilience in communities. His boutique law firm, founded in 1993, reflects his commitment to justice and innovative solutions for complex social and legal issues globally.

Mr. Vijaya Singh has been a dedicated professional with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since 2003. Currently serving as the Assistant Resident Representative, he brings over two decades of expertise in disaster management, driving innovative strategies for risk reduction and resilience building. His work has been pivotal in strengthening community preparedness and fostering sustainable development in vulnerable regions. Known for his strategic leadership and commitment to humanitarian causes, Mr. Singh continues to contribute significantly to global efforts in disaster response and recovery.

Col. Timothy N. Hatch, a 28-year veteran of environmental and public health, co-authored the UN Resilience Scorecard and Public Health System Resilience Scorecard. With decades of disaster response experience, he excels in connecting environmental health with preparedness and community resilience. A recognized leader in public health, he has worked tirelessly to address environmental impacts on human well-being. His approach emphasizes collective efforts, uniting like-minded professionals to achieve shared goals in emergency management and public health advancements. Hatch’s passion and expertise contribute to empowering communities to withstand and recover from environmental and disaster-related challenges.

Prof. Ian Eddie is a distinguished scholar in corporate governance, fintech, and smart city ecosystems. He has held prominent academic roles, including Dean of Business faculties and Director of Graduate Management programs. His research encompasses financial innovation, venture capital, and cybersecurity in global markets. A former Vina Capital Professor at RMIT Vietnam, Ian’s expertise extends to financial reporting and organizational leadership. He actively examines the integration of fintech solutions to enhance business and government efficiencies. His prolific work, including publications on market resilience and executive remuneration, reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable and innovative financial systems worldwide.