Australian Endometriosis Foundation appoints three new directors to support its next stage of growth
The Australian Endometriosis Foundation (AEF) has appointed Anne Simic, Sarah Taylor and Stephen Woodhill to its Board of Directors, strengthening its expertise in people and culture, communications, community engagement and public affairs.
The appointments support AEF’s work to expand access to community programs, build sustainable partnerships and advocate for young people living with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis.
Anne Simic is Managing Director and Principal Consultant at Hartsim, bringing more than 30 years’ experience in strategic and operational people management. Her background in human resources and organisational leadership will support AEF as it develops the people, systems and culture needed to sustain its growing work.
Sarah Taylor GAICD is Director of Community Engagement at Shore and a member of the school’s senior leadership team. A communications and engagement executive with almost three decades of experience, Sarah’s background spans corporate affairs, marketing, stakeholder engagement and organisational leadership. She brings expertise that will help AEF strengthen its relationships, communicate its impact and engage new supporters.
Stephen Woodhill is Principal of Woodhill Advisory, a public affairs and strategic communication practice established after nine years leading the Group of 100, the industry association representing chief financial officers and senior finance executives. His experience spans government relations, media, advocacy, reputation management and corporate governance. Stephen also serves on the Board of St John Ambulance Australia (NSW) and the Council of Shore.
AEF Founder and CEO Milli Weaver said the appointments would strengthen the organisation’s capacity to deliver lasting support while keeping young people’s experiences at the centre of its decisions.
“Young people with endometriosis need support that recognises the impact this condition can have on their relationships, education, work and confidence in seeking care,” Ms Weaver said.
“Anne, Sarah and Stephen bring experience that will help us build a stronger organisation behind that support. Their skills will be valuable as we grow our programs, develop partnerships and bring the priorities of our community to decision-makers.
“As a youth-led foundation, we want young people’s lived experience to shape both what we deliver and how we grow. We’re delighted to welcome three directors who can help us turn those priorities into sustainable action.”
AEF supports young people aged 18–35 through peer connection, health education and practical support. Its programs include Common Grounds, structured peer support groups; RISE, a residential program; Freezer Friends, a fertility education initiative; and CARE Kits, comfort packs for young people spending time in hospital.
The new directors join a Board responsible for AEF’s strategic direction, governance and long-term sustainability, working alongside its CEO and Youth Advisory Committee on Endometriosis.
ENDS
About the Australian Endometriosis Foundation
The Australian Endometriosis Foundation is a youth-led charity supporting young people aged 18–35 with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis. AEF works with young people and clinicians to develop programs that build connection, improve access to information and help participants navigate life with a chronic condition.