We’re delighted to introduce the six passionate individuals who are guiding Humanists Victoria’s work this year. Our Committee of Management brings together a wonderful mix of experience, energy, and fresh perspectives, and we’re already working on exciting plans to support members and grow our community.
Meet the committee
Dr Heidi Nicholl – President
Heidi has a PhD in ethics, which guides her values and secular worldview. Heidi has worked professionally for several non-profit organisations as CEO, successfully operated and sold a small business and has wide ranging interests including a particular focus on health and end of life.
Peter Wingate
Peter has had a diverse career in learning and development (including a Masters of Education specialising in Equity, Diversity and Social Change) and has an active passion for community-building and values-led politics. He was a co-founder of the Australian Progressive Party and has worked as Managing Editor at his local community newspaper ‘The Westsider’.
Michael Mackie – Secretary
Michael has a background in health and government and is a leader in technology. He brings broad experience in digital innovation and data analytics.
Nadia Schilling
Nadia is a finance, marketing, and PR specialist with a passion for driving sustainable business growth. With an MBA and a track record in leadership, she was the winner of the International Women in Business Award 2024 – WIBAA.
John Thomas
John brings strategic and practical experience from a career in education and business. His academic background features postgraduate studies in educational technology and a deep interest in philosophy. This provides a strong framework for understanding both modern communication challenges and the ethical foundations of a secular worldview. He is strongly committed to supporting Humanists Victoria’s compassionate, evidence-based mission.
Ruby Oosthuizen
Media and communications specialist with a Bachelor of Arts (digital media) and a Bachelor of Science (zoology). Ruby has a passion for storytelling and values driven work that helps to represent the diverse communities of Australia.
As a group, we’ve been working on our organisational strategy with two key priorities emerging strongly:
- Strengthening and expanding our programming, especially our Humanist Companioning initiative, which supports members facing loneliness and isolation and reflects our core values of compassion and connection.
- Growing and diversifying our membership through building on the energy and ideas that come from all ages including our younger committee members, so that Humanists Victoria continues to be a vibrant and welcoming community for everyone interested in humanist values
We’re so glad to be serving this community and look forward to sharing more about our plans, events, and opportunities to get involved in the coming months.
If you’d like to meet the committee in person, keep an eye out for the Summer Member Gathering details – we’d love to connect!