Gem Spotlight - Featured Interview
Gembridge is proud to sponsor the Leadership & Emerging Issues track at the FIA Conference and feature Rachael as Co-Chair, bringing her expertise and passion for innovative fundraising leadership. Known for championing collaboration and creativity, Rachael is helping shape conversations that matter. A huge thank you to Rachael and all the volunteer committee who make this track and conference possible!
Read more about Rachael…
Gembridge is proud to sponsor the Leadership & Emerging Issues track at the FIA Conference and delighted Heather returned as Co-Chair, a passionate advocate for bold, values-driven leadership. Heather’s commitment to mentoring emerging fundraisers and shaping the future of philanthropy makes her an inspiring force in the sector and a valued part of the Gembridge network. A big thank you to Heather and all the volunteer committee who bring the conference to life!
Let’s hear from Heather…
Gembridge is proud to spotlight Paul as Chair of the Program Committee for 2026 FIA Conference, aptly named Impact Amplified. Paul recently stepped into his current role as Campaign Director at World Vision through Gembridge and brings exceptional energy and commitment to connecting generosity with purpose.
This year’s conference will feature 9 Specialist Tracks over 3 days, 7 pre-Conference Masterclasses, and 3 Keynote Sessions. A huge thank you to Paul and all the volunteer committee who make this possible!
Now let us hear from Paul…
Alisa is driven by a passion for health equity and meaningful impact. “I love being part of a team committed to improving health outcomes across our communities,” she says, reflecting her dedication to values-driven work and collaborative fundraising at Cancer Council NSW as a Trusts & Foundations Specialist.
We were so excited to see that Francine Poisson was awarded the FIA fellowship.
With over two decades of experience in the not-for-profit sector, Francine is the Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships at the Black Dog Institute, a leading Australian medical research institute dedicated to mental health across the lifespan.
Here is what Francine has to say after we put her through the Gem Spotlight questions…
Sharon Hillman FFIA has received the prestigious Arthur Venn Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions to fundraising. With over 30 years of experience, she has been a leader, innovator, and advocate for best practices.
A dedicated member of FIA, Sharon has served as Past President of FIA Victoria, a Board Member, and a volunteer on key committees, helping to shape the future of fundraising in Australia.
Let’s see what Sharon has to say when we caught up with her…
Bree was hired as Eastern Health’s Head of Donor Engagement around 18 months ago, and she is currently their Acting Director, Foundation. Bree has kindly shared a little of her journey from first job through to her current role, along with the strategy that keeps her team happy and advice for a satisfying work life.
