Since joining The Branch Foundation in April 2010, Tom has helped create, implement and monitor the organisation’s projects. He studied Business Economics at the University of Liverpool, learning vital financial, managerial and marketing skills with the intent of implementing them in the non-profit sector. Given his awareness of global inequalities and desire to make a difference, Tom left London to pursue a career in International Development. Since arriving in Thailand in February 2010, Tom has worked for various organisations along the Thai-Burma border. He fulfilled many roles in the last three years, from fundraising in Mae Sot to organisational development in Sangkhlaburi. Since July 2011, Tom has been managing The Branch Foundation office with an unwavering determination to ensure that the organisation continues to provide high-value services to the communities with which they work.

Contact: tomrosen@thebranchfoundation.org

Tai Leng was born in Shan State, Burma. He left his hometown in 2010 to attended non-formal education in Thailand where he finished primary level. After graduating from Wide Horizons, a programme that provides education to young adults from the Thai-Burma border and inside Burma, he started work at Koung Jor Shan refugee camp as the Project/Education Coordinator and English teacher. Tai Leng aims to further his education by studying for the GED examinations so that he can attend university. He is very passionate about working at Koung Jor Shan refugee camp due to the fact that this was the community that initially provided him with the opportunities to advance his own life. Tai Leng looks forward to further developing the relationship between The Branch Foundation and Koung Jor.

Contact: koungjor@gmail.com

Sai Oo has been working with The Branch Foundation since 2010. As Project Coordinator/Education Director, Sai Oo manages and facilitates the projects in the Koung Jor Refugee Camp. He has completed a Diploma in Community Development from the Wide Horizon School. Sai Oo uses his Shan background and eight years of experience working with the community to effectively coordinate projects within the Camp. Sai Oo looks to continue working with The Branch Foundation and the Koung Jor Camp to ensure more transparent project management and strengthened communication between the organisation and the Shan community.

Contact: koungjor@gmail.com

Brigitte is a founding member of The Branch Foundation and holds the position as the organisation’s New Zealand Coordinator. She works as a psychosynthesis counselor and imago relationship therapist in Auckland, New Zealand. Brigitte offers The Branch Foundation organisational, logistical and general support while serving as the base contact for the organisation in New Zealand. Having visited many of past and present Branch Foundation projects, Brigitte now has a full appreciation for the scope of the organisation and fully stands behind their vision and mission.Contact: info@thebranchfoundation.org

Contact: info@thebranchfoundation.org

Annabel has been a member and trustee of The Branch Foundation since its conception in 2007. She has a degree in contemporary dance and works in the arts with communities in her home country of New Zealand. She currently serves as a music teacher, dancer and stage manager. Although her professional work is not directly connected with The Branch Foundation’s projects, Annabel has always been passionate about strengthening communities and making this world a better place for the less advantaged. She helps advocate for The Branch Foundation throughout New Zealand. She remains a constant supporter and huge admirer of The Branch Foundation team and the tireless work they do.

Contact: info@thebranchfoundation.org

Iona Proebst, Brigitte Lorenz, Annabel Harrison, Tom Rosen