Author: shaunak wanikar

At 28, Selfnesh Bargza is a mother of five and a powerful voice for change in her rural Ethiopian village of Layignawe Garaba. Four years ago, she was struggling with hunger and limited access to basic services. Today, she’s leading community health initiatives and advocating for better healthcare while nurturing big dreams for her children’s education. Her transformation from daily survival to active leadership shows how grassroots empowerment can benefit entire communities.

In this conversation, Selfnesh shares how finding her voice through local organisations has changed her family’s trajectory and sparked hope for ending hunger in her village.

Previously, mothers suffered from various types of health related diseases due to lack of awareness on feeding nutritious food for their children and themselves. As a result instead of participating actively on community matters, they remain at home and health centres in dealing with their health care situations. 

1. In what ways do you feel your voice is heard in local matters?

There is a platform named after the Community Voice Action task force in our localities and this helped us to learn a lot on how to work on our basic needs including demanding for the fulfillment of many more infrastructures. As women we have had plenty of needs like access for quality primary health care service. Therefore the existence of such local associations are instrumental for me to get my voice heard better. 

2. What is your relationship with your community, the local authorities and civil servants?

I feel that I am an active participant in my localities in many more activities. I am one of those individuals promoting the need for ensuring hygiene and sanitation in our kebele. This necessitates working with local authorities and civil servants employed at kebele (wards) and woreda (districts) level.

3. What initiatives have you seen in your community that promote food security, empowerment, and good governance?

There are strong initiatives and commitment seen across our kebele and woreda level in terms of engaging the community to strive hard so as to ensure food security at household level. In line with this we do have the opportunity to get empowered with workshops and training sessions on basic tools to support our efforts and also deal with good governance matters that benefit us a lot from the provision of better service delivery.

4. What role does community organisations play in addressing the community’s needs in your area?

They are the ones who advocate for human rights and also contribute for the improvement of service delivery at grass root level. 

5. What inspires you to stay hopeful about overcoming hunger in your community?

The knowledge and skills we have acquired on how to fight hunger using our own solutions through CSOs and Health workers is promising and we are seeing better results. Therefore, I am optimistic if the commitment of those CSOs and Health workers keeps pace, to overcome hunger. 

6. What dreams or goals do you have for your family once hunger is no longer a daily concern?

I wish to see my children enjoy quality education service and exert our efforts on other businesses that would likely benefit our community as well.

7. How can local organisations better support individuals and families facing hunger?

Taking the existing contribution they are making, local organisations can possibly support us to be economically independent through facilitating loans and addressing the many challenges we do to engage in extensive farming activity.  

Explore our blog for other inspiring stories like Selfnesh’s which are grounded in lived experience and driven by local action.

We’re delighted to introduce our newest Board member Sarah Goulding to The Hunger Project Australia family.

A global leader in gender equality, disability rights and inclusive development, Sarah led the creation of Australia’s new international strategies in these areas and has represented Australia on high-level boards including Gavi, the Green Climate Fund and the UN Partnership for the Rights of People with Disabilities.

She recently joined the University of Canberra as a Research Associate in 2024 after more than two decades with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

We sat down with Sarah to find out a bit more about her story, and connection to our work.

1. Welcome Sarah to the THPA Board! How did you first hear about The Hunger Project?

As someone who spent years working in international development, I heard about The Hunger Project a long time ago, as an organisation grounded in community led poverty alleviation, that supported communities to make long-term change. I heard how impressive the work in Epicentres in Africa was from a donor in late 2023, at a time when I was really interested in models of effective locally-driven change. When I moved into a new research role at the University of Canberra, after twenty one years with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, I was delighted to be able to join the THPA Board in late 2024.

2. What was it about our work that resonated so strongly with you?

There are three things that really stood out to me.

First: the absolute clarity of focus on a deeply connected approach addressing hunger. It is never just about food, it is always about the complex interplay of access to safe water, to health services, to education, to increased incomes in an increasingly complex world affected by climate change, conflict and inequality.

Second: the long term commitment and leadership in communities that is reflected in decisions in homes. It’s in the confidence a parent has to send a child to school that is a litmus test of success. In that most local and personal of family household decisions, when communities come together and make decisions together, you are seeing real change in individual lifestyles that is amplified in community.

Third: the focus on gender equality and climate resilience. All communities are facing increased challenges with the impacts of climate change, and there will be no effective adaptation if we don’t address gender and social inequality at the same time.

3. Is there a particular program or part of our work that you love?

The work I am excited about the most and find really impressive is the work on gender equality. The approach that THP has developed connects the immediate needs in communities for water and sanitation, food security, incomes, health and education to the importance of equality of opportunity. And the data THPA has, that resilient communities have made long term reductions in the rate of child marriage, increased girls education, increased access to ante natal care, increased business opportunities for women, at the same time as communities and families are empowered as a whole. That is extraordinary impact.

4. This is a get to know you – tell us three quick facts about yourself!

I’ve spent 21 years working in international development for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and was Vice Chair of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, a role I held during the pandemic.

I’ve had a lifelong passion for addressing gender inequality in international development.

I’ve developed a deep love of native Australian orchids, which I love spotting while hiking in the bush.

5. What are you most excited about in the 5 Year Strategic Plan? How will your particular skills help bring it to life?

The element that excites me the most is the level of ambition. Being part of an organisation that is stepping up to the challenges of inequality, conflict and climate crisis to break the cycle of hunger and extreme poverty for millions of people. My skills in strategy, risk, public policy, and assessing impact I hope will support the Board as the organisation in Australia steps up to this ambition, and navigates increasing uncertainty to support communities lead change.

6. What advice would you give to someone who is considering joining a not-for-profit Board?

I would say the opportunity to support an organisation working internationally is a privilege. THPA directly benefits the lives of people living in extreme poverty for the long term, changing lives and futures in countries like Malawi, where 70% of the population live on less than $US2 a day.

7. And lastly – finish this sentence “When I give, it brings me ….” 

When I give, it gives me humility, that I can support people as they lift themselves and each other up. 

To learn more about the people who drive our mission, check out our Team page here.

Ahead of our much awaited THRIVE Immersion trip to Benin this October, we profile the talented Miles Protter, who is going to be facilitating this trip.

Raised in Canada, Miles pursued graduate studies in Economics at Cambridge which was then followed by a 15 year career in investment banking based in London. After a midlife epiphany, he followed a new vocation in leadership development, eventually moving to Australia with his family to run a consulting firm. Now, he and his wife are mentors and consultants based in Perth. Miles is actively involved in men’s well-being, serving on the board of Men’s Sheds of Western Australia.

1. What inspired you to support The Hunger Project Australia?

Having studied economic development at uni and as a banker who advised governments of several middle income nations, I knew there was something missing from the top down, charity led model of development pushed by Western agencies and NGOs. Encountering THP for the first time in 1988, I saw a new approach coming from a completely different paradigm. They really did believe hungry people were the only ones who could solve their problems. All they needed was encouragement, a sound strategy, and leadership development. And that is what THP has done for the past 40+ years. I’ve been a supporter ever since!

2. What’s one transformative moment you’ve witnessed during your last Immersion trip to Malawi in 2023?

We visited a community group that was struggling to complete all the objectives to be fully self reliant. I felt obliged to give some kind of inspiring speech, saying in front of the group we believed in them and were committed to fund the remaining expenses. Then a man who’d just come in from the fields stood up and said, “You Australians must keep doing this work not just for us but because it also gives you life.” I have rarely felt so known.

3. What’s one thing participants can expect to take away from our upcoming trip in Benin?

You will meet someone whose dignity, courage, intelligence and commitment penetrates to your soul. Returning to Australia, you will see new ways to lead that you never considered before, and put them into action. Work will not be the same.

4. When you’re not facilitating Thrive trips, what do you love to do in your free time?

My wife and I love to experience the beauty of our world, seeing the people we love, so we travel a lot! We love to hang out with our daughter and her husband in Melbourne, and explore the amazing nature of Western Australia. We love Perth’s cultural life. I enjoy cycling, hiking, and playing in the ocean, kite surfing and surfing. And I’m writing a book, which is a lot harder than I thought it would be!

5. What’s one lesson you’ve learned through your own leadership journey?

I always thought I was being paid to know lots of stuff and tell people what to do. Gradually I’ve discovered that leadership is about: 

1) empowering other people to be great leaders, 

2) being crystal clear about what is important, especially when some leaders today are turning away from their values in pursuit of power.

If you have been inspired by Miles and want to embark on a THRIVE Immersion experience that is sure to change your life, check out our immersions page.

In this edition of our Leadership Spotlight Series, we connect with Elodie IKO, the dynamic Country Director of The Hunger Project-Benin. As a trained psychologist specializing in gender and inclusion, Elodie brings unique insights to community development and the mindset shifts that make sustainable change possible.

1. Hi Elodie! You’re the country director of THP-Benin, but trained as a psychologist. Mindset shift is a huge part of our successful programs – how have you seen it work in practice?

2. You’re also a specialist in gender and inclusion. How do our programs incorporate these elements, and how important are they to ending hunger and poverty for the long-term?

We prioritize women and youth as key development actors because they’re vital to ending hunger and poverty sustainably. Women perform 60-80% of agricultural work in rural areas, yet remain among the most vulnerable groups. Importantly, women reinvest 90% of their income into their families (compared to 30-40% for men) – when a woman becomes independent, the entire community benefits.

Before designing any program, we conduct gender diagnoses to identify women’s specific needs. We then strengthen their capacities in food security, health, entrepreneurship, access to credit and resources, literacy, leadership, and rights awareness. We promote girls’ education and combat gender-based violence.

To ensure sustainability, we train community women facilitators and secure female representation in decision-making bodies. We also engage men, boys, and community leaders in adopting positive masculinity, promoting equality, and supporting women’s socioeconomic empowerment.

3. Tell us a little more about the THP-Benin team – how many staff do you have and where is your office based? Who has been there the longest?

THP-Benin consists of 21 multidisciplinary, dynamic staff members split between our national office in Cotonou and field locations. We maintain close connections with rural communities through project facilitators stationed in intervention zones, ensuring continuous on-the-ground support. Our most tenured team member is a driver with approximately 25 years of valuable experience at THP-Benin.

4. Can you share a community partner story that inspires or motivates you?

Faustine Ologou’s story from Ouissi epicenter deeply inspires me. In a community where women were traditionally limited to domestic roles, Faustine emerged as a transformative leader through THP-Benin’s support. After receiving training in leadership and governance, she broke barriers by being elected president of the Ouissi epicenter despite significant male resistance and political opposition.

Her determination didn’t stop there. After THP-Benin’s withdrawal, she mobilized new partners to continue nutrition programs for children under five and supported breast and cervical cancer awareness. She even secured funding for an orphanage and now supports a local kindergarten while sharing her experiences with other communities.

5. What are three facts you’d like people in Australia to know about Benin?

Benin is the birthplace of Vodoun, a profound spirituality often misunderstood through stereotypes. This animist religion spread globally through enslaved people to Haiti, Brazil, and the southern US. In Ouidah, once the main port for the slave trade in the Gulf of Benin, stands the “Door of No Return” monument commemorating this painful history.

Ganvié, known as the “Venice of Africa,” is one of the world’s largest stilt villages. It originated in the 18th century when people built homes on Lake Nokoué to escape slave raids. Since 1996, this unique settlement has been on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list.

Before colonisation, Benin comprised multiple kingdoms, with the Kingdom of Abomey (Dahomey) being most powerful. It was famous for its elite female warriors, the Agojie, who were renowned for their unmatched combat skills and fearlessness. European colonizers called them the “Dahomey Amazons.” Their legacy is commemorated by the Amazone Monument in Cotonou.

6. For someone in Australia who is considering coming on the Thrive Immersion trip to Benin, what would you say to encourage them to come?

If you’re seeking an authentic and inspiring experience, Benin is perfect! This democratic West African nation offers a peaceful haven filled with hidden treasures – from breathtaking landscapes to remarkable cultural sites. You’ll discover stunning coastlines, diverse natural parks, remnants of the slave trade in Ouidah, royal palaces of Abomey, and the unique stilt village of Ganvié – truly Africa in miniature!

While our vibrant nation of 14 million faces challenges in clean water access, food security, women’s empowerment, and education, our commitment to sustainable development fuels our passion.

Join us this October to witness community development approaches that truly work, explore our rich culture, taste incredible cuisine, and experience renowned Beninese hospitality. You’ll have an unforgettable adventure that continues even after you leave.

We believe ending hunger is possible, and with your participation, we can create even greater impact. Benin awaits you with open arms!

In this edition of our Employee Spotlight Series, we profile, Josie our incredible Immersion Experiences & Events Manager, who brings people together across continents and cultures through our THRIVE Immersion trips at The Hunger Project Australia.

1. Can you introduce yourself and your role at The Hunger Project Australia?

I’m Josie. I’m the Immersion Experiences Manager at THPA. I joined our Sydney team about two years ago and I feel very privileged that I get to work with many different teams and people; Australian investors, global colleagues in Europe, in the US, THP teams across Africa, India. I probably search 3 times a day “What time is it in…?” 

2. What inspired you to join THPA?

Our immersion experiences, of course! Because it’s all about interconnectedness, bringing together people born miles apart to share their stories, find common grounds and most importantly, remind each other that we all belong to the same world. Creating these connections is what we need to build a more equitable future and keep our world bonded.

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone wanting to make a difference?

Don’t wait. Don’t make it a “tomorrow” thing. Whatever form it takes, just start because once you do, it will become an integral part of how you choose to live your life.

5. What’s a book, podcast, or quote that has influenced you?

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I think that one speaks for itself 🙂

6. How do you like to unwind in your free time?

I sing in a choir! Not because I have a hidden talent (I wish), but because music and the sound of voices transport me to a peaceful, joyful place… 

Today on International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting seven extraordinary women who have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for others. They’ve shared their wisdom, experiences, and advice, which will make you think, reflect, and maybe even spark change in your own life. Read their powerful words and celebrate with us.

Erin Evans (CEO & Founder, INTELLIGEN)

Anna Baird (Founder & Director, Bared Footwear)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

Investing in women is about creating opportunities, fostering confidence, and ensuring that leadership tables are diverse and representative. At Bared, women make up the majority of our leadership team, and I’ve seen firsthand how having women in decision-making roles brings different perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and a strong sense of community and collaboration. I believe in hiring great people, empowering them, and giving them the flexibility to thrive. Leadership, to me, isn’t about hierarchy, it’s about ensuring your team feels valued and supported so they can do their best work.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

I’d tell her: Trust your gut and keep going. When I started Bared, I had no idea what I was doing beyond knowing that there was a gap in the market for stylish, supportive footwear. The first few years were tough, our initial shoes weren’t great, and we nearly lost everything. But I kept listening, learning, and evolving, and that persistence made all the difference. My younger self would probably roll her eyes and say, “Easy for you to say now!” but I think deep down, she’d take it on board.

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

Karma Chameleon. It has such an infectious, feel-good energy and it’s impossible not to move to it. Maybe it resonates because it’s about staying true to yourself, not changing to fit in, and embracing individuality.

Christine Khor (CEO & Founder, Peeplcoach; THPA National Board Director)

Camilla Franks (Founder & Creative Director, CAMILLA)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

I have always had a passion for investing in creativity, in women, in Australian talent. Taking the time and putting in the work to do something right. That flows through every element of my brand and my business. Every piece I create is an investment, a keepsake, a modern heirloom to be treasured, revisited, loved forever and passed down through generations.

I am so proud that CAMILLA is a fierce, fearless, female-founded, female-led business. I’ve made that a priority since the very beginning. But for me, investing in women means not only putting women in strong positions throughout my business, but also nurturing that strength, creativity, artistry and innovation. I’m a big believer in empowering aspiring creatives to unlock their full potential, to share their art and their stories and find their voices. And I’m proud to do that every single day!

We are a global collective of printmakers, storytellers, adventurers and artisans – which, almost unbelievably, is 20 years old now – and together we’ve had an incredible impact.

I’ve always designed to make people feel empowered and free, and that ethos has permeated the entire business. Now, I have a global team, and each of them carries that vision with them as a guide. Whether they work in design, marketing, digital or IT… they all invest the time and the creativity to truly innovate, to craft pieces that empower, stories that captivate and to foster a sense of possibility, and purpose.

Together, we’re paving the way for the next generation of young, beautiful, courageous women. Inspiring, uplifting and fortifying them to take control of their mission and design a world that they’re proud to be part of.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

I don’t think she’d listen, to be honest. She was very rebellious. But, if I could give her one piece of advice, it would be this: “Trust your instincts. Trust your intuition. Be brave. Be kind. Work hard. Laugh at every opportunity. Find the magic wherever you can. And inspire others to do the same.”

I’m proud to say, for the most part, I’ve done this throughout my journey.

She’d probably react by shushing me or rolling her eyes and saying: “Well, obviously.” And then she’d probably do the opposite. So, maybe it’s better I don’t give her any advice at all!

I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved. In fact, the best advice I could give my younger self would be: “You’re doing great kiddo. Well done. Keep it up.

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

Unpopular opinion: pump-up music is overrated. Does meditation music count? Because when I need to feel unstoppable, my go-to state is peace, gratitude, compassion and presence. That’s what I need to feel balanced, alive and truly centred in power, passion and my purpose. My favourite track is O, I Love You by Essie Jain, which is on the Sage Cacao Playlist by the beautiful Frankie Moore.

Kate Howitt (Independent Non Executive Director, Commbank; THPA National Board Director)

Tania Austin (Owner & Chair at DECJUBA)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

Investing in women for me means investing in initiatives that I know are creating opportunities and pathways for great truly things to happen. When you invest in women there are deep social and economic benefits – when women fully participate in the workforce and have freedom to be heard the outcomes are resounding. As a leader my goal is to always create space for my teams to fully realise their potential, to grow, take risks and move with confidence. 

I am so proud that DECJUBA is a female-founded and led company. Our team is 96% female, our executive leadership team is 90% female, and put simply, DECJUBA wouldn’t be where we are today without the amazing women who drive our business forward every day.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

If I was giving my younger self a piece of advice it would be  ‘trust yourself, trust your ambition and know that you are more capable than you think’

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

One of my favourites is ‘can’t stop’ by the red hot chilli peppers …

Jane Lu (CEO & Founder, Showpo)

Siv Kathiravel, our Deputy CEO, has seen much progress and change during her nine years here at THPA. We take a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Siv thrive.

1. Can you introduce yourself and your role at The Hunger Project Australia?

Hello, my name is Sivanjana (meaning the third eye in Sanskrit) Kathiravel, but most people call me Siv.  After being with the organisation for nine years with various iterations, I’m now the Deputy CEO at The Hunger Project Australia.

2. What inspired you to join THPA?

I’m a first generation migrant from Sri Lanka, who came to Australia with my family when I was 2 months old. Growing up, I was shielded from the hardship and atrocities of a civil war, and instead directed by my parents to focus on having an education and opportunities I most likely wouldn’t have had. Over the years, I understood my privilege and wanted to do what I can for those who didn’t have the same chance at life that I did … purely because of where they were born. And then enter THPA!

3. What’s a program that’s resonated most with you in your work?

• we put people at the forefront of our work
• we see their incredible potential as humans
• we partner with them so that they can create the future they want; and
• it’s sustainable change

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone wanting to make a difference?

It’s not hard – do it! Small, big, once, always…doesn’t matter – just do something (but hopefully more than once!)

5. What’s a book, podcast, or quote that has influenced you?

Can I say a song? Growing up and still, it’s the lyrics and song to Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson.

6. How do you like to unwind in your free time?

Free time? What’s that? I have a cheeky 15 month old, so there’s no such thing! But on the rare occasion of good nights and some down time – watching spy shows, reading, long walks and listening to music.

Former Board member and long time investor Jacinta McDonell shares her extraordinary experience in Zambia when she went as part of our Thrive Immersion Experience.

Jacinta met To Tetema at Ching’ombe, a community we plan to partner with in the coming year. Food security, health facilities, water and resources here are currently scarce; a situation we hope to change in the future with support from our Investors.

“Supporting The Hunger Project isn’t just something I do—it’s something I feel deeply. My journey began in 2014, and revisiting Zambia in 2024 confirmed my connection to the transformative work we do and my continued love for the African continent.

During this trip, I met an extraordinary woman named To Tetema, an extraordinary woman whose story embodies resilience, courage, and strength. In a short walk from her home to the community gathering, we bridged gaps of language.

At 57 years old, To Tetema has lived a life many of us can hardly imagine. A mother of 10 children (8 still living) and 22 grandchildren, she serves as both a midwife and caretaker in her village—despite having no access to clean water or healthcare. She has been widowed for 20 years, raising her family alone with dignity and grace.

Despite these stark differences, I realised the shared humanity that existed between us—two mothers connected by resilience, hope, and love.

In that moment, holding her hand as we walked, I realised the profound truth: the only difference between us was where we were born. I, in Sydney, with access to opportunity; she, in rural Zambia, where basic necessities are scarce.

This moment was humbling beyond words. It reminded me of what truly matters: human connection and our ability to make a difference. I also reflected on the dedication of The Hunger Project staff and the incredible impact they have in supporting leaders like To Tetema to transform their communities. This trip truly was a reaffirmation of my belief in the limitless potential of the human spirit and the importance of supporting those who are creating change every day.

To Temma’s story, and the lessons she taught me will remain etched in my heart forever. Moments like these are why I support THP—and why I believe so deeply in the power of human connection to create change.“

Interested in having a life affirming new experience in 2025? The Hunger Project Australia are running more Immersion Experiences in Africa next year for both individuals and corporate groups. You can register your interest here and we will be in touch!

[Photo Credits: Sarah Jane O’Hara / Human Brand Story]