Category: News

We are thrilled to announce that Rowlands Kaotcha has been appointed The Hunger Project’s President and CEO. Rowlands most recently served on the executive team as the global Chief Program Officer, and has been with The Hunger Project for 23 years, including serving as Country Director in Malawi, Southern Africa Region Director, Vice President for the Africa Region, and Global Vice President for Program Strategy.

“Rowlands is an inspiring and thoughtful leader,” said Sheree Stomberg, Chair of the Global Board of Directors. “The Board is confident that Rowlands has the strategic vision and leadership skills — all rooted deeply in the principles and methodology of The Hunger Project — to bring the organisation to breakthrough levels of impact and influence.”

“Having grown up in a rural village in Malawi, I know how it feels to be hungry and to be afraid of the future,” said Rowlands. “A world free from hunger — that’s why I am here. That’s why I do what I do. For me, The Hunger Project is not just a job. This is my life.  I am honoured by the confidence of the Board and the opportunity to serve as President and CEO. It is truly the privilege of a lifetime.” 

Rowlands succeeds Tim Prewitt, who, over his four-year tenure, successfully led The Hunger Project to revise the mission and vision, develop the “Amplify” strategic plan, enhance internal systems for data, learning, and finance, and strengthen partnerships and global influence. 

“We are grateful for Tim’s leadership and continued support,” Sheree said. “Tim will now serve The Hunger Project as a Senior Advisor to ensure a smooth and effective transition.”

In addition, Jenna Recuber, who most recently served as Chief Development and Communications Officer, and who has been with the organisation for 20 years, has been appointed Deputy CEO, and will provide strategic leadership as we look to our future growth.

Sheree noted that the Board is excited that Rowlands and Jenna are stepping into new leadership roles from within The Hunger Project. “It has always been the dream of the Board to draw from the talent pool within the organisation,” she said. “We have the utmost confidence in the leadership of Rowlands, as our President and CEO, Jenna as our Deputy CEO, and Kosha Shiswawala, as our CFO, and know that together they will powerfully lead the organisation, bringing in the strengths of others, to advance our mission.”

“It’s been a privilege to work alongside so many talented staff at The Hunger Project, including Rowlands Kaotcha,” said outgoing CEO Tim Prewitt. “I am confident Rowlands will lead the expansion of our impact to even greater heights.”

Rowlands has led the expansion of The Hunger Project in southern Africa, and has represented The Hunger Project in speaking engagements across Europe, Australia and the United States. Prior to joining The Hunger Project, Rowlands served in roles at United Purpose (formerly Concern Universal) and at a private national seed company in Malawi. He has a B.Sc. in Agriculture and an M.Sc. in Agronomy from the Bunda College of Agriculture at the University of Malawi, and an MBA from the Eastern and Southern African Institute of Management in Tanzania.

“The Hunger Project’s work to transform systems of inequity that give rise to hunger is needed now more than ever,” Sheree added. “Our organisation was founded on the belief that another world is possible – and together, we can change the way the world works so that each and every human being does not go to bed hungry at night. We’ve seen this work in thousands of villages worldwide. It is indeed possible. We are grateful that Rowlands will lead us forward so this bold vision is a reality everywhere.”

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]

Our Thrive trippers share their experiences in Zambia.

In late October and early November, a group of ten people travelled to Zambia to see the work of The Hunger Project firsthand. Joining them to facilitate were longtime THP Investor Claire Whitbread and our Head of Partnerships and Immersion Experiences, Jessica Parker.

For many, it was their first trip to this beautiful and vibrant continent. Collectively, they raised close to $100,000 to support our programs and help create a world without hunger.

We sat down with the participants to ask them what they gained from the trip. Here’s what some of them generously shared.

“The trip was absolutely incredible. I loved every aspect of it and am still processing every part of what we experienced and the impacts. The continual evolution of THP as they grow with regard to the priorities and needs of the communities is exceptional, exciting and impactful beyond words.”
Melissa

“Everything about the Thrive program was first class! I am so proud and happy to have been part of the group and to experience the trip together. I still can’t believe I’ve been to Africa, but also know I’ve learnt so much, in so many different ways. I also loved Claire’s session about being present, I thought of this often during the trip and have done so many times in the last week.”
Narelle

“Participating in this trip has provided me with an irreplaceable perspective and a deeply-rooted understanding of The Hunger Project’s impact both globally and at the grassroots level. Experiencing firsthand the resilience of communities facing poverty and hunger has been profoundly transformative‚ a true awakening to the power of dignity, resilience and the unyielding spirit of communities facing immense hardship. To witness the courage and resourcefulness of individuals navigating the stark realities of poverty and hunger has been both humbling and deeply moving.”
Vashti

What three words come to mind to describe your Thrive experience?

“Inspiring, grounding, life-affirming.”
Jac

“Meaningful, educational, life-tweaking.”
Gabrielle

“Transforming, pensive, gratitude.”
Sina

“An incredible experience.”
Tom

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!

Talia Smith, THP-Australia Program and Grants Manager, travelled to Malawi with colleagues from THP-Netherlands to see firsthand how our community partners are thriving. Australian Investors are supporting two new Epicentres at Majete 7 and Majete 8, both in their first year of the Epicentre Strategy.

MAJETE 7
Even though the project is only in its first year, there has definitely been some amazing progress made! We sat in on a WASH session and a HIV/AIDS session run by some newly trained Animators.

We met with the Epicentre Chair, who is a very lovely guy and only 32! He proudly showed us around some of the backyard gardens that they’ve started due to the sessions run by nutrition Animators.

We also saw two Village Savings and Loans Associations (VLSA) groups in action. There is still a lot of progress to be made, especially in accessing water and healthcare, but the community is all so so lovely and energised about the project.

MAJETE 8

Our first stop was the secondary school. We had the opportunity to sit down with 10 students, as well as the principal, vice principal and one of the teachers. The students discussed number of challenges including lack of electricity at the school, long distances to travel and issues around menstruation for girls.

We sat with the children for a while and discussed their dreams and aspirations for the future. We discuss who they look up to, and many of them mentioned their lovely teacher who was sitting with us.

Majete 8’s leadership committee has taken a unique approach by promoting the participation of youth. The Chair is only 20 years old. We took the opportunity at the end of the meeting to speak to three of the younger women in the leadership committee and the Chair to discuss the challenges that they face, their motivation to be involved in the project and their visions for the future, and they all spoke so passionately and articulately. It was so inspiring to hear from all of them and a wonderful note to end the day on.

Imagine having to give birth in the dark because there was no electricity.

Or not being able to have your baby immunised because there was no refrigeration.

Electricity literally saves lives in Africa.

Electricity connectivity has been a significant challenge at Dominase Epicentre in Ghana for several years now, due to low supply of electrical poles and electrical cable for installation. The lack of electricity is concerning, particularly for essential facilities like the health clinic, impacting the ability to provide healthcare after dark and keep vaccinations cold due to the lack of a working fridge.

Epicentre Nurse Hagar explains.  
 
“Due to the persistent lack of electricity at the health facility, numerous challenges have arisen. The situation was particularly difficult for pregnant patients, as they too would be referred if they arrived at the facility after 6 PM.  
 
Additionally, every Wednesday, the health facility conducted weighing and outreach programs. However, the lack of electricity meant that the vaccines couldn’t be stored on-site, for the children, necessitating regular trips to another health facility to acquire them.” 
 
THP-Ghana saw the dire need by the health facility for electricity and collaborated with the Electricity Company of Ghana to successfully have electricity connected..  

“The health facility now enjoys a continuous and uninterrupted 24-hour supply of electricity. Now, patients can receive medical attention at the facility even after 6 PM, eliminating the need to refer them to another health facility.  
 
The availability of electricity allows for proper drug storage on-site, ensuring that medications are readily accessible.
 
This improvement in electricity supply has also addressed the challenges associated with deliveries, enabling them to be carried out smoothly without any issues related to inadequate lighting.”
 

We sat down with Christina Tunnah, General Manager Americas and Global Marketing and Brands at nib, to hear more about why they choose to support The Hunger Project.

Q: Hi Christina! In your own words – tell us a little bit about nib.
nib’s purpose is your better health. We are a trusted partner in helping our members and travellers make more informed healthcare decisions, transact with healthcare systems and generally live healthier lives.

We are also Australia’s third largest travel insurer and global distributor of travel insurance through our businesses, nib Travel and World Nomads, providing financial protection and assurance to travellers wherever they are in the world.

Q: How did you first hear about the work of The Hunger Project?
We began partnering with The Hunger Project through The Footprints Network in 2022. We recognised your work to end hunger across the world through tackling issues including poverty, gender equality and food and water security resonated strongly with travellers wanting to give back and support the communities they visit on their travels.

Q: What do you and nib’s customers love about our work?
The Hunger Project Australia’s program model has a strong emphasis on community-led initiatives, which we know are crucial to create enduring impact. Epicentres are transformative hubs for community development, becoming focal points where local leaders and champions drive change. By empowering local communities to take charge of their own development, it ensures that solutions are sustainable and tailored to the specific needs of each community, no matter what part of the world they are in.
There’s also a global impact encompassing many regions across the world, which provides us great opportunities to fundraise for a range of projects addressing community issues in various countries where we know our travellers want to give their support.

Q: What are nib’s values and how do they tie back to our partnership?
Our values guide each decision we make and shape how we interact with each other, our members, travellers, suppliers and shareholders. One of our core values is ‘Our footprint matters’, highlighting our responsibility to lead by example and contribute towards the sustainability of the communities in which we operate.

This is why we believe that as travel insurance provider we have a responsibility to give back, so we support international communities through The Footprints Network, founded by World Nomads. When purchasing travel insurance with us, travellers can choose to add a small donation to their policy price to help fund a community development project. We work with reputable charities and NGOs, and absorb the administration costs, so that 100% of donations goes directly to the projects chosen by travellers.

Q: Why do you think it’s important to embed purpose into your business model?
Embedding purpose connects our members, travellers and employees to the positive impact we strive to have on the communities where we live, work and operate. We know people want to support businesses who are active as responsible corporate citizens.

Our World Nomads travellers have told us how important travelling responsibly is to them, which is why The Footprints Network was created, so they can directly support communities they visit.

Q: What advice would you give to other corporates who are considering giving back through a partnership?
Connecting partnerships with your purpose is really important, as it fosters greater connection for employees and customers in understanding the ‘why’ behind the partnership. For us, it drives further engagement for our people and customers, leverages more support for your partners and ultimately drives more positive impact in the community – it’s a win-win!

Small gestures also add up to a lot over time. With Footprints taking only microdonations from travellers, the individual donations may seem small, but together they have provided an enormous amount of support to charitable organisations and their work over the last 20 years, with over $5.6 million in donations, supporting over 260 community development projects globally.

We are delighted to share this delicious news! We’ve partnered with Australia’s fastest-growing fast food company Guzman y Gomez to combat world hunger. GYG will support our Eat Well program in Mexico, where hunger and malnutrition is a huge and growing challenge, especially for Indigenous and rural women.

The partnership underpins GYG’s mission to reinvent fast food and change the way the world eats by partnering with community organisations around the world and driving education that will make a positive impact on the world we live in.

The Eat Well program works with women and communities to promote eating traditional, Indigenous food. This means growing food locally and providing education on how to make food as nutritious as possible. Led by our local THP-Mexico team, it’s a program that empowers local women in becoming community leaders in the fight against hunger.

Montserrat Salazar Gamboa, Country Director of The Hunger Project Mexico, said partnerships like this are vital.

“Guzman y Gomez are the perfect partner for our Eat Well program. Their support means we can empower even more women to lead their communities and use local knowledge to change the systems that keep people in hunger and poverty.”

Philippe Magid, CEO of The Hunger Project Australia, praised Guzman y Gomez for their leadership and generosity.

“Creating a world without hunger is possible thanks to committed, passionate partners like GYG. Businesses with purpose embedded in their DNA are key to helping overcome global challenges like hunger, poverty and inequality. We’re thrilled that Guzman y Gomez and their amazing team and customers are supporting women and families in Mexico to thrive.”

Meet Kris Macourt, a young philanthropist from Sydney who has just returned after spending time visiting communities in Uganda. Kris and her family invested in Kenshunga Epicentre, and went to see just how far the community has come.

What inspired you to get involved with The Hunger Project?

The fundamental fact, after years of doing my own due diligence with organisations, that The Hunger Project was the only project I discovered whose funding becomes inessential to the community it has partnered with, after that community reaches a state of self-reliance. To me, that is the marker of a model that truly works.

How would you describe The Hunger Project to someone who’s never heard of it?

Just that! A model that works! An organisation that seeks no benefit outside of helping communities to become independent from funding and self-reliant in a way that empowers their own capabilities, self-governance and competence to thrive.

On your visit, what kind of people did you meet?

I met the THP-Uganda team, who, in every capacity, drive the very hearts of the communities they partner with. I met post ‘self-reliant’ communities, who were empowered and full of joy. I met a community that has yet to be mobilised yet have the great determination to do so, which inspired me so much. Seeing the comparison between the two was an indication of what wonderful work THP can achieve alongside them.

What challenges were the communities facing?

What is fundamental for THP is women centric business and drive and that is evident when meeting with the communities – that the women are one of the greatest drivers of change for their community, voicing the challenges on behalf of everyone. One issue that continually rose, was that of capital. How to grow their circles and further expand their businesses. Of course, the difficulties of climate change. Access the materials and conservation of product. To name a few.

What’s one thing you’d ask people to do to create a world without hunger?

Do your research! If you want to make a difference, make sure that you are donating with projects that can actually create the change that is needed. Get emotionally involved, give more than just money, but allocate time to connect with those facing challenges and understand what their needs are. Because listening is a truly remarkable pilot when navigating through a world that seeks change.