Strengthening Governance with New Board Appointments

Brave Foundation is pleased to announce a renewal of the Board with the appointment of three new directors and a Founding Member. Leigh Goldsmith, Ben Spence are new additions to the board. Mia De Leo has transitioned from the role of Company Secretary to director, replaced by Grace Beaumont.

Board Chair Professor Maria Harries AM said the appointments mark a new phase for Brave as the organisation embarks on a new strategy in 2025.

“It is an exciting time to welcome new expertise to the Brave Foundation Board,” said Prof. Harries. “Their contributions will help us strengthen our ability to support young parents and their children.”

Ben Spence has worked extensively in child protection, out-of-home care, youth justice, disability, aged care, and social housing across government and non-government sectors. Mr Spence has a passion and personal stake in supporting young parents, having been a young parent and grandparent himself. He holds qualifications in psychology, law, communications, and leadership, with a strong commitment to supporting First Nations communities.

Leigh-Anne Goldsmith has over 25 years of experience in the not-for-profit, health, and community services sectors. She has held senior executive roles in human resources, organisational development, and business transformation. Ms Goldsmith is the Executive General Manager, People and Organisational Performance with RSL Queensland and holds qualifications in public sector management and governance.

Mia De Leo is a commercial lawyer with expertise in technology, intellectual property, and the not-for-profit sector. She works in the in-house legal team at Employment Hero and has advised organisations on governance and compliance. Prior to joining the Board as a director, she served as Brave’s Company Secretary for three years.

Grace Beaumont is a Corporate and Commercial Lawyer at Law Squared, with experience working with organisations in both the private and non-profit sectors. She holds dual qualifications in Law and Governance and brings her diverse experience and expertise to the role of Company Secretary.

The founder of Brave, Bernadette Black is recognised within the constitution as a Founding Member.

Brave CEO Jill Roche welcomed the new appointments, highlighting the collective experience and passion for supporting young parents encompassed in the board.

“We are excited to have them join us, and we look forward to the contributions they will make based on their expertise. Each Board member brings unique skills and experience that will strongly support Brave in our strategy to become a Centre of Excellence for Young Parents,” she said

Ms Roche added that the Board shares a deep commitment to unlocking the boundless potential of young parents.

“Expanding the Brave Village is always a rewarding experience, and welcoming new Board members is no exception. Everyone at Brave, from our front line staff to our Board, is dedicated to creating a strong, supportive and inclusive community for expecting and parenting young people.”

The appointments were confirmed Brave’s Annual General Meeting in November 2024. The Board thanked retiring directors Rolfe Brimfield, Ebony Curtis and Sabina Curatolo for their valuable contributions to the organisation’s mission.

27 February 2025