Our Mission:

“Transforming lives through improved health, quality education, and lasting independence - empowering children with special needs and their families to thrive.” 

Meet the team

Erin Hegarty

Founding Director
Erin is a dynamic force in the Perth community, driven by an unyielding passion for transforming lives through grassroots initiatives and community empowerment. As the Manager of Mama Respond, she leads with a vision that is both bold and compassionate, ensuring that the organisation's mission to uplift the special needs community is realised in impactful, sustainable ways. Her studies profoundly influenced her approach to community development in International Relations at the University of Western Australia, where she discovered the transformative power of communities owning their destinies. 

Erin's leadership at Mama Respond is marked by creativity and a deep connection to the people she serves. Her extensive experience spans family and domestic violence advocacy, healthcare, and housing, equipping her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. She believes real change happens when communities are not just participants but leaders in their development. Her work goes beyond traditional charity—it's about igniting a sense of ownership and possibility within every person and community Mama Respond touches.

With a Performing and Visual Arts background, Erin brings a vibrant energy to everything she does. Whether on stage or in a community meeting, she knows how to inspire and unite people. Outside work, she delights in life's finer pleasures—savouring great food, enjoying fine wine, and sharing unforgettable moments with those around her.

  • Dennis Mutoro

    Vice Chair

    Dennis Mutoro founded Africar Logistics, which specialises in import and export logistics across East Africa. A dedicated family man with a household of daughters, Dennis is actively involved in his children's schools, where he serves as a board member. 

    Passionate about community development, he is a committed member of the Rotary Club of Embakasi, working to support local initiatives that foster growth and resilience. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his business, Dennis finds balance and peace in the village, where he enjoys reconnecting with nature and family roots. 

    His leadership and community focus bring invaluable insight to Mama Respond's mission to empower families and communities to thrive.

  • Janet Kabaya

    Treasurer

    An advocate of the High Court of Kenya with over nine years of experience, Janet Kabaya is deeply dedicated to advancing community rights and ensuring legal protections for vulnerable populations. Her expertise spans public interest litigation, disability rights, international compliance, and democracy and governance, with a strong focus on the rights of special interest groups. Key areas of her work include grant management, engaging with regional and international treaty mechanisms, policy review, and legal research.

     Janet has led impactful public interest cases, including a landmark case resulting in the recognition of intersex persons as a distinct sex category globally. She was also part of the legal team supporting Mau Mau War Veterans, leading to reconciliatory actions and compensation from the British Government. Additionally, she is a Certified Professional Mediator, Commissioner for Oaths, and Notary Public, bringing invaluable expertise to Mama Respond's mission of empowering families and individuals to thrive.

  • Brendan Hegarty

    Secretary

    With over 30 years of experience in Construction Health and Safety, Brendan brings invaluable expertise to Mama Respond’s building projects, ensuring they are guided by safe, effective practices. He has a keen eye for risk and compliance, consistently working to identify and mitigate potential risks to create a secure environment. 

    Known for his dedication to workplace health, Brendan is especially passionate about implementing purpose-driven policies and processes that promote safety and well-being. His commitment to health and education initiatives aligns closely with Mama Respond’s mission, making him a valuable part of the team.

    An avid "fix-it man," Brendan enjoys using his skills to help others and finds great joy in spending time with his family.

  • Simon Mutugi

    Board Member

    Simon Mutugi is a highly respected occupational therapist known throughout Kitengela for his approachable and compassionate care. Simon graduated from Kenya Medical Training College in 2002 and began working at Watoto CIAO a program for children with disability, where he worked in pediatrics unit and in community-based rehabilitation program, sensitising parents, community volunteers and the community on disability issues.

    With over 20 years of experience, Simon now serves at Sitoti Hospital, where he regularly refers mothers with children with special needs to the Strong Mama groups, helping them access crucial support.

    Simon also assembles and fits Mama Respond wheelchairs, always putting his patients' needs first and ensuring they receive the best possible care.

    A true community man, Simon's dedication to his patients and commitment to community well-being align perfectly with Mama Respond's mission to uplift and empower families.

  • Diane Avice

    Board Member

    Diane is a determined advocate to end Family and Domestic Violence. Having migrated to Australia, Diane honours her multiculturalism and is committed to amplifying the voices of women and girls of colour in all spheres of society. For the past 16 years, Diane has built a solid career within the Disability sector; with expert knowledge the NDIS. She uses her talent to mentor younger organisations wishing to provide supports to people with Disabilities. 

    During the day, Diane is a Strategic Director at Unique Support Services, a reputable Disability Service Organisation, specialised in providing supports to participants with complex needs. Of all her roles, what makes Diane the proudest is being a mother to two amazing children.

  • Damian Hegarty

    Board Member

    Damian Hegarty's dedication to the community runs deep, extending from his local roots to Mama Respond's international efforts. His expertise in construction management is invaluable to Mama Respond's building projects abroad, helping to create safe and supportive spaces for children with special needs and their families.

    An electrician by trade with over 30 years in the mining and construction industries across Western Australia, Damian is a team player and dynamic leader. He's known for organising team events and bringing a cake to celebrate every occasion, making the workplace fun and inclusive. Passionate about efficiency and a mentally healthy workplace, Damian embodies the resilience and community support values that Mama Respond inspires.

    A father of two adult children, he spends his free time fishing, exploring the outback, and tinkering in his shed.

  • Anne Jepkoech Tonje

    Board Member

    As a Kenyan Australian, Anne is deeply committed to positively impacting her personal and professional life. Her dedication to sustainable development and tackling global challenges is evident through her extensive work in Australia and Kenya. With over 15 years of experience creating social impact and managing programs, Anne is a Senior Advisor for the State Government, where her strategic insights have shaped policies across community, industry, and financial programs.

    Anne's connection to Mama Respond stems from shared values of empowering women and children and improving educational outcomes. She finds inspiration in Mama Respond's commitment to transforming the lives of children with special needs in Kitengela and alleviating hardship for their Strong Mamas. Outside of work, Anne enjoys serving her community, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.

  • Dr. Edward Odundo

    Board Member

    Dr. Edward Odundo is the Director of the School of Pension and Retirement Studies and a distinguished leader in finance, governance, and pensions. He serves on Equity Group Holdings Board and is the Chairman of Equity Life Assurance Company Ltd. 

    With decades of experience, Dr. Odundo has held key roles, including CEO of Kenya's Retirement Benefits Authority, Commissioner at Kenya Revenue Authority, and Director of the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Honoured with the Moran of the Order of The Burning Spear (MBS), Dr Odundo is also an advisor, lecturer, and author dedicated to strategic planning, entrepreneurship, and empowering people with disabilities. 

    His expertise brings immense value to Mama Respond's mission of transforming lives and empowering families. Dr Odundo holds a PhD in Business Administration and has studied at Harvard, LSE, and the University of Nairobi.

  • Julie Hegarty

    Board Member

    Julie is a devoted mother of seven and a proud grandmother of 14. Her deep love for family extends to her work with Mama Respond, where she is known for her selflessness and commitment to the organisation's beneficiaries. As a businesswoman, Julie has made a name for herself with her exceptional baking and cake decorating skills, earning widespread acclaim for her delicious creations. At the Armadale Market, she is especially famous for her sought-after chilli jam, a favourite among the market's patrons.

    Julie's dedication to her community is further reflected in her extensive experience serving on various school boards, where she has played an integral role in shaping educational policies and supporting local schools. She is also passionate about event planning, bringing her creativity and organisational skills to every occasion she helps coordinate.

    Beyond her professional endeavours, Julie finds joy in gardening, homemaking, and leisurely walks along the river, where she draws inspiration and relaxation. Her dedication to her family and community reflects her compassionate nature and her passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

  • Njoki E. Wachira

    Board Member

    Njoki has led an impressive career as a project and program specialist in her 14 years working in the health and education development sector.

    Njoki holds a Bachelor of Arts in Community Psychology from Makerere University and is pursuing a master’s degree in Gender and Development She is a proud mother of two wonderful.

    In her personal life, she has a keen interest in hiking and aspires to conquer the highest mountains in East Africa within the next five years.

  • Emilia Saunders

    Human Relations - Australia

    Emilia is on a mission to make a real difference in the lives of children and families. With a heart full of passion and a mind dedicated to excellence, she plays a crucial role as the Human Resources and Operations Manager in the Youth Services and Disability industry. Emilia also serves as the HR Manager for Mama Respond, where she is integral to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for the special needs community and their families.

    Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Business and majors in HR and Accounting, Emilia is continuously enhancing her skills, pursuing a Certificate 4 in Mental Health. Her commitment to helping others isn't just a career—it's a calling. Whether refining HR practices or ensuring smooth operations, Emilia's impact is felt by everyone she works with, both at Mama Respond and beyond.

    A proud mother of two, Emilia treasures her family time. When she's not busy making a difference in the workplace, you'll find her enjoying precious moments with her loved ones, recharging and finding inspiration in the simple joys of life.

  • Veronica Kalekye

    Human Relations - Kenya

    Veronica brings over 17 years of experience in General Human Resource Management, with a robust background in both international and regional contexts. Veronica is HR Manager Kenya for Mama Respond, where she plays a crucial role in shaping the organisation's HR strategy to support its mission. Additionally, she serves as a Human Resource Specialist at AfricaNenda Foundation, supporting diverse teams across multiple countries.

    Her expertise lies in nurturing organisational culture, talent development, and ensuring a healthy work environment. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Veronica is deeply passionate about mental health support, advocating for resources and practices that promote well-being in the workplace. She also loves travel, which has enriched her understanding of different cultures and enhanced her ability to effectively manage HR functions across various regions.

    Veronica is a dedicated mother to two boys, balancing her thriving career with her family life and continuously seeking new ways to contribute to her community and profession.

  • Ann Mutheu

    Programs Coordinator

    Ann has dedicated her recent years to improving community health, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and outreach. Her extensive Community Health and Development background has empowered her to collaborate effectively with diverse groups, addressing public health challenges with empathy and expertise.

    Her passion for this work is deeply personal. As a mother caring for her daughter with Cerebral Palsy, Ann understands the unique challenges faced by the special needs community. Her lived experience extends to caring for her siblings, further deepening her commitment to advocating for health equity, social justice, and the transformative power of education and grassroots action.

    As Project Coordinator Kenya for Mama Respond, Ann is dedicated to advancing the organisation's mission of enhancing health to improve education for the special needs community. She brings a wealth of knowledge, a compassionate heart, and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves. 

    Ann's journey with Mama Respond is driven by her unwavering belief in the potential of every individual, regardless of their challenges, to thrive with the right support and resources.