Meet Our Team
Meet the passionate individuals who make up the Liyan Foundation team. Each member brings their unique skills and expertise to help us make a positive impact in the lives of those in need.
Co-founder and COO
Melanie Hogan
Award-winning filmmaker and social impact entrepreneur, Melanie has written, directed, and produced films that amplify Indigenous voices and healing stories across Australia. She co-founded the Liyan Foundation with Victor Hunter to pioneer two-way learning models through film, housing, and gardens. Melanie brings decades of creative leadership and advocacy to the board.
Co-founder and CEO
Victor Hunter
A Nyikina man with over 70 years of lived experience in the Kimberley, Victor is a cultural leader and community elder. He has worked across remote Aboriginal communities guiding two-way learning, self-determination, and cultural renewal. As co-founder of the Liyan Foundation, he anchors the organisation in Nyikina values and wisdom.
Board Director
Cherie Sibosado
A proud Bardi and Nyul Nyul woman from the Kimberley, Cherie has extensive experience in Indigenous affairs, governance, and regional development. She has led initiatives that streng-then economic participation, cultural identity, and community wellbeing. Cherie provides strategic insight to ensure the Foundation’s projects deliver lasting benefits for families and Country.
Board Director
Neville Poelina
A former Indigenous Tourism Commissioner for WA as well as a Traditional Owner of the Kimberley, Neville brings deep cultural knowledge and practical expertise in sustainable development. He has decades of experience in cross-cultural leadership, tourism, and land management. His role ensures projects are guided by Country, culture, and community priorities.
Board Director
Damien Crough
A leading advocate for sustainable housing innovation, Damien is the Executive Chair of prefabAUS, Australia’s peak industry body for off-site construction. He has driven transformative projects in modular housing and Indigenous community builds across Australia. Damien ensures the Foundation’s housing projects are at the forefront of design, sustainability, & scalability.
Head of Marketing & Communications
Pia Dorer
With a background in philanthropy, governance, & social enterprise, Pia has worked across not-for-profits and corporate sectors to foster cross-cultural partnerships. She brings expertise in strategy, funding, and stakeholder engagement to advance community-led initiatives. She guides the Foundation in building strong networks and sustainable pathways for impact.
Architect
Robert Toland
An architect with decades of experience working alongside Aboriginal communities, Robert specialises in culturally-appropriate, environmentally responsive housing. He has led co-design processes across the Kimberley that respect both Country and culture. Robert ensures the Foundation’s projects translate community vision into practical, liveable homes.
Architect
Nonda Katsalidis
One of Australia’s most celebrated architects, Nonda is internationally recognised for landmark projects including MONA in Hobart and Eureka Tower in Melbourne. His work bridges art, architecture, and social impact, creating iconic designs with lasting legacy. As design lead for the Foundation’s pilot house, Nonda brings visionary creativity and world-class expertise.
Our Partners
