Meet the ANZA Executive Committee for 2025, a diverse group of Australian and New Zealand expats who oversee the strategic direction of the association.
President: Christopher “Toph” Brown
Current employment: Business Owner, HPM Hobbies
Years in SG: 19
Years on the EC: 1
Why you wanted to join the EC: As a long-term member, I’ve seen how much the Executive Committee contributes to ANZA and want to be an active part of that effort. ANZA is a true community bringing together not just Australians and New Zealanders, but Singaporeans and other nationalities from across the globe. The connections ANZA enables are what makes us truly special.
Skills you bring: I’ve had the joy of being involved with the ANZA Scout Group for well over a decade. Within Scouts we have actively pursued community projects and social engagement, often partnering with ANZA Action or other subgroups. Along with community engagement, my professional life has revolved around implementing strategy, with all the challenges of taking a dream and bringing it to life in the real world.
What excites me about ANZA: It’s people. Our members, volunteers, staff, and the Executive Committee are the beating heart of this vibrant association. Meeting our community and personally visiting the subgroups always brings a shine to my week
Vice President: Melanie Speet
Current employment: Head of Marketing & Communications at Branded
Years in SG: 9
Years on the EC: 2
Why you wanted to join the EC: ANZA has given me a lot as a community and become my ‘family away from home’, so I’m keen to help others to find their Singapore family through ANZA.
Skills you bring: As a marketer in the events world, bringing communities together is my bread and butter. Beyond that, I’m always looking for new and better ways of working that will benefit the communities I serve.
What excites me about ANZA: The breadth and depth of opportunities to connect – no matter what interests you and your family have, ANZA has something for you. This is unique amongst clubs and member organisations in Singapore, and I’m excited to help foster all of these connections.
Treasurer: Manish Kumar
Current employment: VP, Commercial and Strategic Sourcing, APAC at NTT Data Inc.
Years in SG: 19
Why you wanted to join the EC: The decision to join the ANZA EC stems from my desire to stay connected with the Aussie community here in Singapore. My wife Charu and my two adult sons live in Melbourne these days, so I’m in need of some Aussie family here in SG. ANZA has been a wonderful support system for my family through the years, especially through the scouts and the Aussie school. I feel it’s only fitting to give back to the community that has given so much to me.
Skills you bring: A solid accounting background, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for teamwork and continuous improvement. I’m eager to contribute to the continued growth and success of ANZA, and I look forward to collaborating with everyone.
Secretary: Kate Flemming
Current employment: Currently between roles – both a blessing and a challenge. While it’s tough on the bank balance, it’s been an absolute gift to spend extra time with my two girls.
Years in SG: 9
Why you wanted to join the EC: Being part of the EC provides me with the exciting opportunity to help ANZA evolve and meet the needs of not just Australian and New Zealand families, but the broader multicultural and multiethnic community in Singapore of 2025. It’s an opportunity to contribute to the association’s history while staying more connected to (and hopefully adding value to) the local community.
Skills you bring: I bring a strong background in commercial, personnel, and business acumen, with a focus on organisational governance and risk management. I have extensive experience in customer success and customer experience within the region, particularly in delivering value to customers – or, in ANZA’s case, to members. Much enthusiasm is a skill I bring too!
What excites me about ANZA: I find the association’s long history fascinating, especially as it reflects the broader relationship between New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore. I’m incredibly proud to call myself Australian, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to live, work, and raise my children in Singapore. I see ANZA as a valuable cultural reference point for my daughters, providing them with opportunities to engage in events and sports alongside adults who share a similar background to theirs, and meet other third-culture kids navigating similar questions about their place in the world.
Membership Secretary: Rowena Cannane
Current Employment: Self-employed management consultant
Years in SG: 4
Why you wanted to join the EC: I had the pleasure of being introduced to ANZA many years ago, initially as a parent of young children who participated in the sporting activities offered by the organization. My kids are nearly all grown up now, and I felt compelled to pay it forward by getting involved with an organisation I’ve both admired and thoroughly enjoyed being a part of in the past.
Skills you bring: I have previously worked with member-based organisations, contributing to the growth and development of their memberships. As the former Membership and Marketing Manager at AustCham Singapore many years ago, I gained valuable insight into the unique dynamics of member organisations. Additionally, as an independent management consultant, I’m confident that my project management and strategy development skills will be an asset.
What excites me about ANZA: ANZA has a rich history in Singapore and has demonstrated its ability to evolve and grow with the changing landscape. I’m excited to be a part of a thriving community that not only supports its members, but also contributes to the broader community in Singapore.
Committee Member: Don Northey
Current employment: Sole Practitioner Chartered Accountant specialising in SMB’s
Years in SG: 20
Years on the EC: 17
Why you wanted to join the EC: I’ve been an ANZA member since 2006 and attended my first Melbourne Cup that year. I joined the Executive Committee as Treasurer in 2008, and then, after eight years in the role, I took a back seat as a general committee member, providing advice to the finance team as and when required, and continuing to provide event photography for all major ANZA events. I’ve been a member of ANZA’s Secret Men’s Business for 17 years, but that’s all I can tell you.
Skills you bring: ANZA has been a big part of my life for 19 years with 16 of those being on the Exec Committee. I’m delighted to be able to continue providing my services and professional skills to ANZA as a payments authoriser, and event photographer, and allowing ANZA to benefit from my knowledge of Singapore’s financial and statutory requirements.
What excites me about ANZA: The ANZA events bring me in touch with diverse ANZA members. I enjoy the camaraderie that comes with taking photographs and convincing people that everyone looks fabulous!
Committee Member: Joseph Keats
Current employment: National Sales Manager at Petersons Wines
Years in SG: 8
Years on the EC: 1
Why you wanted to join the EC: I like to think I offer a point of difference through my diverse work experience, and ability to communicate effectively with an extensive range of people. I bring a pragmatic and creative approach to problem-solving, and can often offer and appreciate alternative perspectives.
Skills you bring: My professional career has centered around two of my greatest passions – travel and wine. My wife Shelley and I have three kids (10, 13, 17), and through them we have a great understanding of different facets of Singaporean life for expats. I run regular public events and get to make connections with a massive cross-section of the community. We’re actively involved with numerous clubs, charities, and not-for-profits.
What excites me about ANZA: The diversity, inclusiveness, and character within the Aussie and Kiwi community is something we should celebrate and highlight. In addition, I opened a small business just over a year ago and realised I was getting caught in the classic trap of putting too much time into work. I’m at the stage of my life where focusing on the wellbeing of my family is a priority, and also helping the greater community.
Committee Member: Nicola Mifsud-Houghton
Current employment: Commercial Operations Director at GSK
Years in SG: 2
Years on the EC: 1
Why you wanted to join the EC: Having recently moved to Singapore I can provide the perspective of someone new to this vibrant and diverse country. I’ve worked in diverse environments and I’m keen to give back, and hope that my experience can benefit the community and represent new members well.
Skills you bring: Over 10 years’ experience in Change Management and driving strategic projects and business transformations. My skills in navigating complex change and managing stakeholder engagement can support ANZA’s growth and initiatives, helping to ensure it remains a vibrant hub for members.
What excites me about ANZA: I’m excited to deepen my involvement in ANZA’s community events, connect with inspiring people, and contribute to an organization that fosters such a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Committee Member: Shaun McEwan
Current employment: Company Director
Years in SG: 14
Years on the EC: 3
Why you wanted to join the EC: Joining the ANZA Executive Committee in 2022 was driven by my desire to contribute to the community. Having benefited greatly from ANZA, the expat community, and Singapore as a whole, I wish to give back in equal measure.
Skills you bring: My extensive experience lies within the events industry, specialising in auctioneering, event emceeing, and fundraising. Currently, I’m the director of several companies in both Singapore and Malaysia, bringing a unique blend of business expertise and a strong understanding of the region. My qualifications and enthusiasm align perfectly with ANZA’s mission, and I’m eager to contribute to the organisation’s continued success.
What excites me about ANZA: The rich tapestry of life experiences you find within our diverse membership brings unique insights and fresh perspectives which are essential to learn in life to stay relevant and keep moving forward.
Committee Member: Thomas Saggio
Current employment: Associate, Pinsent Masons MPillay
Years in SG: 1
Why you wanted to join the EC: When I first moved to Singapore, ANZA and the people within its community truly made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived. I have really benefited from the communities that ANZA has established, and I want to give back to those who have made my time in Singapore so enjoyable.
Skills you bring: My background in the legal profession has given me the skills to navigate complex situations, and offer solutions with effective communication. These skills, along with the motivation and enthusiasm I bring, will contribute to ANZA’s ongoing growth and development.
What excites me about ANZA: Being involved with ANZA has allowed me to connect with inspiring people from diverse backgrounds and deepen my appreciation for the power of shared experiences and belonging. Communities have always been important to me, both in Singapore and Australia, so contributing to ANZA, which positively impacts so many lives, is a cause I’m passionate about.