Our Board

FOUNDER

Helen Oxenham is an Order of Australia medal recipient for her tireless work in advocating for women’s rights, for the past 40 years. A sufferer of domestic violence herself, Helen’s insatiable drive to help women has resulted in some incredible achievements.

Helen opened the first women’s shelter in Christies Beach in 1977, originally starting in the back of her husband’s watch shop. This shelter would go on to provide refuge and hope for thousands vulnerable women. In her later years, Helen championed the idea of creating a commemorative art space dedicated to those who have died or suffered from domestic and family violence.

In 2016, her vision was officially launched into action, and today, we see the first of her spaces come to life in the community - an incredible achievement.

At 90 years of age, Helen is still standing strong. She is as passionate and committed as ever and continues to proactively advocate for women’s and children’s rights. Helen’s contribution to the world is truly humbling.

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

Heather Oxenham is an accomplished producer with a string of screen credits to her name. Working alongside award-winning directors including; Rolf de Heer; Bill Bennet; Clara Law and Scott Hicks, Oxenham has had success in both commercial and independent spheres.

She has supervised over hundred hours of programming for SBS TV, including work on the flagship programs; Living with the Enemy; First Contact; Go Back to Where You Come From; Once Upon A time; Tall Man and Who Do You Think You Are. She has also worked on popular comedy programs Housos and Wilfred for the SBS. Her drama background includes line producing for All Saints for over 400 Episodes, playing an instrumental role in making vital changes to the program.

Her international recognition includes short film SEXY THING, officially selected for competition at Cannes Film Festival and winning a creative excellence award at the Melbourne Film Festival.

Heather Oxenham holds an BA, MBA and master’s degree.

LEGAL ADVISOR

Zita Adut Deng Ngor is the CEO of Women’ Legal Service (SA), a specialist not-for profit providing legal and support services to women across the state of South Australia. She is a legal practitioner by profession and has worked for many years in the community service sector for over 20 years.

Zita Ngor has an active interest in working with and advocating on behalf of disadvantaged groups within society. In 2001 she received a Centenary Medal for service to the community and in 2013 she was selected to one of three NGO delegates to the Australian Government Delegation to the Commission on the Status of Women 57. She was selected due to her expertise on violence against women, in particular with regards to women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. In 2017, she was a finalist for Australian of the Year (South Australia) and in 2019 was selected as one of the 40 under 40 young business entrepreneurs in South Australia.

MARKETING LEAD

Mark Leak is a seasoned Graphic Designer with nearly a decade of experience in the not-for-profit sector. Originating from a diverse background, Mark first established a successful event design business in Mexico City. Over the course of seven years, Mark then served as the Graphic Designer at St John Ambulance Australia SA Inc., contributing artistic flair to the organisation's visual identity. Additionally, Mark has consulted on design and brand identity for notable entities like Child and Family Focus SA and Vision Australia.

A passionate advocate for social causes, Mark's commitment to combating domestic and family violence is evident in both his professional endeavours and academic pursuits. Holding a Bachelor of Design, a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences, and a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Psychology, Mark brings a unique blend of creative insight and psychological expertise to the table.

In 2024, Mark is poised to embark on a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology at the University of Melbourne. His research will revolve around a comprehensive exploration of the factors influencing behaviours and attitudes that facilitate intimate partner violence.

COUNCIL ENGAGEMENT

I was fortunate to connect with Helen and Heather of Spirit of Woman at the Walk Against Family Violence organised by the Liberian Association in 2016 and since then have provided expertise in collaborating with Councils to heighten awareness of Domestic Violence in our community. Having served on the City of Port Adelaide Enfield as an elected Member for fifteen years and with my experience as Committee member and Inaugural Life Member of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association, I am well equipped and committed to helping Spirit of Woman achieve its goals.

MULTICULTORIAL ENGAGEMENT

Enaam is the Practice Manager, Multicultural Engagement at Relationships Australia SA, provides intercultural consultancy services and training inside and outside the organisation. Enaam established multiple culturally appropriate services to address highly stigmatised issues including specific services for women affected by DV, HIV and gambling problems.

ADELAIDE CITY COUNCIL ENGAGEMENT

I am a successful Real Estate agent with over 25 years of experience in the industry. A daughter of Greek migrants, born and raised in Adelaide, I have hard work and honesty instilled in me from an early age where I worked at the family’s Snack Bar in the city of Adelaide.

I have a vivid recollection of North Adelaide as a child, where my mother worked for many years at Helping Hand and Hotel Australia, the now Brougham Place. As an adult, I frequented the many North Adelaide businesses on O’Connell Street and Melbourne Street to spend time with friends, family and shop. My passion for the precinct grew even more, especially in recent times supporting my life partner’s restaurants in North Adelaide for the past seven years.

A mother of two children and stepmother of three, juggling family and running my own business, I learnt very quickly the importance of work-life balance, without compromising my commitment to both.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Nancy Penna has strategic and operational oversight of AnglicareSA’s community services portfolio, which includes over 285 staff and 100 services across out-of-home care, homelessness, community development and emergency relief. With more than 30 years’ experience in South Australian community services, Nancy has a unique understanding of the political and social landscape and the issues and opportunities facing South Australia. She has held executive roles in government within child protection and disability, with her executive experience underpinned by her earlier career as a social worker in child protection and youth justice.

Nancy is a director on the Board of the South Australian Council of Social Services (SACOSS), Chair of the Child and Family Focus South Australia (CAFFSA) Board and was recently on the Housing Security for Older Women Taskforce with report to government recently submitted.