Our team

John Godwin Founder and CEO

John Godwin is passionate about helping young people and those in need develop the confidence and self-belief to take charge of their lives and create a brighter future. His mission is to inspire individuals to transform their lives and, in turn, inspire others to do the same.

In 2009, John founded the Fair Go Australia Foundation, which has since evolved into the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation. As CEO, he continues to lead the organisation, focusing on programs that foster hope, resilience, and positive change in communities.

John’s extensive experience spans executive leadership, education, and mentoring. He played a key role in developing the middle school program at Villanova College and served as Managing Director (Australia) of a global ticketing company, overseeing the sale of 650 million tickets annually across 40 countries.

Holding qualifications including an MBA, Bachelor of Teaching, Bachelor of Education Studies, Certificate IV in Theology, JP Qualification, and Prince II certification, John also facilitates mentoring programs, reflecting his hands-on approach to leadership.

John is married to Sue, an active IBFF volunteer, and together they have four boys who also volunteer enthusiastically. John enjoys family time, teaching, sports, and witnessing the transformative journeys of those he supports.

Michelle Thomson Program Co-ordinator

Michelle Thomson is a dedicated and detail-oriented Program Coordinator at the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, working behind the scenes to ensure the smooth delivery of impactful programs. With a focus on organisation and collaboration, Michelle secures program information, coordinates speakers, manages catering, and facilitates networking opportunities for participants.

Michelle brings a wealth of experience in program coordination and community support. Her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while maintaining a high standard of excellence ensures that the Foundation’s programs run efficiently and effectively. Michelle’s passion for helping others drives her to create meaningful opportunities that empower individuals and foster positive change.

A devoted mother of two boys, Michelle is deeply involved in her community and volunteers as a mentor with the Foundation in her spare time. Known for her impeccable style and warm approach, Michelle enjoys connecting with people and contributing to their success.

Jodi Brown Community Engagement Leader

Jodi Brown brings deep experience in mentoring, program delivery, and relationship-building to his role as Community Engagement Leader at IBFF. Passionate about inspiring young people to move their lives Onwards and Upwards, Jodi is responsible for recruiting, onboarding, and supporting facilitators and volunteer mentors across Queensland. His work ensures the successful rollout of programs in schools and employment settings, with a strong focus on safeguarding, cultural inclusion, and professional development.

Jodi also leads strategic partnerships with universities and community stakeholders to strengthen IBFF’s capacity to serve disengaged youth, CALD and First Nations communities, and students in ICSEA 3rd and 4th quartile regions.

With a background in mental health training and social impact initiatives, Jodi combines grassroots engagement with strategic oversight, helping IBFF scale with heart, data, and integrity. He is committed to building resilient communities by championing love, truth, hope, and belonging in every program he supports.

Jen Tucker Marketing & Design Manager

Jen Tucker is the creative force behind the marketing and branding efforts at the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation. Jen is responsible for crafting engaging campaigns, managing the Foundation’s online presence, and ensuring its messaging reflects the organisation’s core values of hope, community, and empowerment.

With extensive experience in graphic design and marketing coordination, Jen excels at delivering professional, timely, and impactful content across various platforms. Her work includes designing eye-catching visuals, coordinating with partners, and managing fundraising campaigns to increase awareness and drive community support.

Jen’s innovative approach and keen eye for detail have been instrumental in elevating the Foundation’s profile. Passionate about storytelling, she uses her creative talents to connect with audiences and inspire action.

Outside of work, Jen enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 children, exploring creative projects, and supporting initiatives that make a positive difference in her community.

Lorraine Skinner Finance Manager

Lorraine Skinner plays a vital role as Finance Manager at Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the organisation. With a sharp focus on accuracy and efficiency, Lorraine oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation to support the Foundation’s mission of empowering individuals and communities.

With extensive financial experience including Financial Accountant for Fisher & Paykel Australia and PRD Realty Australia and a meticulous approach to her work, Lorraine ensures that all financial operations are transparent and aligned with the Foundation’s goals. Her expertise in financial reporting and compliance allows the team to focus on delivering impactful programs with confidence and security. Lorraine has a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA).

Lorraine is passionate about making a positive difference through her work and takes pride in contributing to the Foundation’s success including mentoring. Outside of her role, Lorraine is a proud mother to two young adults and loves weight training and spending time with loved ones.

Paula Russo Fundraising, Partnerships & Philanthropy

Paula Russo is dedicated to supporting the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation and has brought to her role a toolkit of transferrable skills from her long and rewarding career in the business world.  With a passion for creating meaningful partnerships, Paula plays a key role in securing funding and organizing high-impact events that help drive the Foundation’s mission forward.

With a background in stakeholder and event management, Paula brings a strategic approach to building and maintaining long term relationships with corporate partners and ensuring that their valuable contributions are rewarded and acknowledged.  Her work ensures the sustainability of the Foundation’s programs, allowing it to empower individuals and communities in need.

Paula thrives on collaboration, leveraging her strong communication skills to engage with stakeholders, sponsors, and community partners. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensures that all outcomes are executed seamlessly, raising both awareness and funds for the Foundation’s initiatives.

Dilshani Weerasinghe Deputy Chair & Volunteer Mentor

Dilshani Weerasinghe is a passionate advocate for change-maker initiatives with significant societal impact. With extensive experience in leadership roles across various sectors—including child safety, education, multicultural arts, sports, youth, and international performing arts—Dilshani has been a driving force in strategic growth within the nonprofit sector since 1996.

Currently, she serves as the Executive Director at Queensland Ballet, leading the company through a period of vision renewal under Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO. Dilshani has held influential roles such as Development Manager at the Malaghan Institute (NZ), Head of Partnerships at the Royal Opera House (London), and Development Director at Queensland Ballet.

A mother of three and partner to a frontline health worker, Dilshani is an advocate for workplace flexibility and believes in fostering wellbeing within high-performing teams. She is committed to inspiring others to live and work with purpose, aiming to spark enthusiasm and positive change in every project she takes on.

Bernard Canavan Board Member & Volunteer Mentor

Bernard Canavan, known as Bernie, is a dedicated community advocate passionate about inspiring brighter futures. Since 2015, Bernie has been an active volunteer mentor and valued board member with the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, contributing his expertise and unwavering commitment to the organisation’s mission. He has also supported various community groups focused on empowering young people.

More than three decades ago, Bernie founded Portfolio, a renowned Brisbane-based design and digital agency. Under his leadership, the agency has built long-term partnerships with prominent clients, including Brisbane City Council, Australand, Investec, Lendlease, and Suncorp Life & Superannuation.

Bernie’s ability to foster meaningful relationships and his dedication to making a positive impact are central to his work and volunteer roles. Outside of his professional life, Bernie enjoys engaging with his local community and championing initiatives that inspire growth and opportunity for all.

Victor Asoyo Board Member & Volunteer Mentor

Victor is the newest board member of IBFF. He is a Partner at Solomons, where he provides expert legal advice across a diverse range of financial transactions. With nearly two decades of experience as a practicing solicitor, Victor works with private lenders, traditional banks, and ASX 100 listed companies. His expertise spans property development, construction, renewable energy assets, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Victor is skilled in Personal Property Security Act (PPSA) securities and the registration process on the Personal Property Security Register.

Victor’s extensive legal background allows him to offer a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring comprehensive solutions for clients involved in complex asset transactions. His strategic guidance will be invaluable as IBFF continues to make a positive impact in the community.

James Beirne Board Secretary

James Beirne is an experienced finance and governance professional with more than 25 years of senior leadership experience across commercial, financial and strategic roles. A Fellow Certified Practising Accountant (FCPA) and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), James has built a career helping organisations strengthen financial performance, manage risk and deliver sustainable growth.

As a member of the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation Board, James brings extensive expertise in corporate governance, strategic planning and financial stewardship. His commercial insight and collaborative approach support the Foundation’s ongoing growth, ensuring it remains well positioned to expand its impact and create brighter futures for young people across Queensland.

Elise Bell Youth Ambassador

Elise Bell is the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation’s first Youth Ambassador, bringing lived experience, empathy, and a strong commitment to supporting young people. Currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology at Queensland University of Technology, Elise is passionate about youth wellbeing and the power of mentoring to create positive life change.

Elise has shown resilience through her own journey and is dedicated to helping ensure young people feel heard, supported, and empowered. In her role as Youth Ambassador, she contributes a valuable youth voice to IBFF’s Onwards & Upwards mentoring programs, connecting with participants and helping shape programs that reflect the real needs and experiences of young people.

Elise believes that when young people are supported by their community, they gain the confidence and tools they need to move their lives onwards and upwards.

Glen Richards Corporate Ambassador & Volunteer Mentor

Glen Richards is a dedicated mentor at the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, contributing to our programs since 2014. A devoted family man and community advocate, Glen is always available to offer guidance and support to those in need.

Glen’s career began as a veterinary surgeon in Townsville, where he developed a group of veterinary clinics under the Greencross brand, alongside large-format pet stores. He also established two veterinary hospitals in China. As the founding managing director of Greencross, Glen helped build a multi-million dollar pet care empire, now operating over 200 veterinary hospitals across Australia and New Zealand. The company also leads in specialty pet care retail, with more than 300 stores across Australasia.

Now a professional investor and mentor, Glen focuses on scaling health and allied health companies. He chairs ASX-listed companies Healthia and People Infrastructure and holds several other directorships.

Amberley Lobo Community Ambassador

Amberley Lobo is a passionate and driven Ambassador for the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, where she dedicates her time to inspiring and empowering young individuals to achieve their fullest potential.

A strong advocate for youth empowerment, Amberley brings a vibrant energy to the Foundation’s mission, sharing her personal experiences to motivate others to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience. As a youth leader, she actively participates in the Foundation’s mentoring programs, offering support and guidance to those navigating challenges and striving for success.

Amberley is committed to fostering a positive environment where young people feel heard, valued, and inspired to take control of their futures. She believes that with the right support, every young person has the power to shape their own path and create lasting impact in their communities.

Her passion for change and advocacy for youth empowerment make her an invaluable member of the Foundation

Tim Franklin Inspirational Ambassador & Volunteer Mentor

Tim Franklin is a passionate ambassador and volunteer mentor for the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, using his expertise and experience to guide individuals and inspire them to create brighter futures for themselves.

Tim is best known for his incredible journey of running across five continents and 19 countries, covering 26,232 kilometers over 576 days, all while raising awareness and funds for the Foundation’s programs. His dedication to physical and mental resilience has made him a powerful role model for others in the community.

As an ambassador, Tim shares his experiences to motivate and encourage those facing challenges, helping them believe in their potential and take meaningful steps toward their goals. Tim is also an active volunteer mentor, guiding participants through the Foundation’s programs and offering his wisdom to empower others.

His dedication and enthusiasm for the Foundation’s mission are an inspiration to all.