At Umbrella, we believe everyone has an equal right to enjoy their golden years. We believe language, gender identity, culture or financial status should not be a barrier to accessing quality services. We believe that Umbrella’s ethos of respect, passion, commitment to our mission, and our staff’s hard work can change someone’s life.
Umbrella Inc. delivers the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), Home Care Packages (HCP) and Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) to over 1000 clients from 70 countries including seniors from LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. We also offer Carers Gateway and care finder services.
These programs are funded by the Australian Government and are designed to keep seniors connected to their community, while living independently and on their own terms.
Umbrella provides customised care by matching volunteers and support workers with clients.
We are members of the Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA),the national association for providers of age services across residential care, home and community care and retirement living.
We are a team of experienced professionals with a wide range of skills, experience and cultural backgrounds. We share a passion for making a difference to the lives of seniors from culturally diverse and LGBTQIA+ communities.
President
Anna’s remarkable leadership and commitment to the rights of older Australians from multicultural and LQBTIQ+ communities have resulted in Umbrella today supporting almost 1,000 clients from 70 countries.
In 2023, Anna was cited as a Member of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours List, one of four women across Australia honoured for their contributions to the aged care sector.
Anna is also one of two Western Australian representatives on the National Council of Elders, the peak consumer advisory body to the Australian Government on all matters relating to seniors, based in Canberra.
Languages: English, Polish
Vice-President
After qualifying as a geographer in Macedonia, Marika studied English in Australia followed by interpreting qualifications in Serbian and Polish.
Marika has worked in the multicultural community sector in a variety of roles, including family violence support and on programs helping new migrants settle in Australia.
She also works as an interpreter for Macedonian, Serbian and Polish residents. In addition to her paid work, Marika has been involved in in committees and as a volunteer language teacher for many years.
Languages: Polish, Greek, Macedonian, Serbian and English.
Treasurer
Anna has a Doctorate of Philosophy from Edith Cowan University and is a lecturer, researcher and course coordinator in the School of Business and Law.
She is a Board member of PolArt Inc. and Chairperson of the Kolonia Perth Board.
Anna is committed to supporting and celebrating diversity, including community members who identify as LGBTIQ+ and brings a high level of legal, financial, strategic and governance skills to the Board.
Languages: English, Polish
Secretary
Krystyna retired from the academic sector in 2021 after 17 years as a Graduate Education Officer at the University of Western Australia, working with PhD students and their supervisors.
Since then, she has become a tireless volunteer for various environmental causes, as well as for Umbrella’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme. In 2022, she volunteered as a tutor and mentor as part of Mercy Connect, working with children from asylum seeker and refugee backgrounds.
Her varied career has given her a strong understanding of a range of disciplines and the importance of rigorous data collection and management.
Languages: English, Polish
Board Member
With a background in policy and research, Rita has worked for the Office of Multicultural Interests (OMI) since 2011 and is currently a Senior Strategy, Planning and Research Officer.
She has expertise in policy and action research in the areas of ageing, migration, gender, social development, poverty, inequality and multiculturalism.
Since 2011 she has led OMI’s work on ageing in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities in Western Australia and has produced several reports identifying issues impacting on CALD seniors.
Languages: English
Board member
Belinda is Corporate Counsel at Laing O’Rourke with the sole conduct for all legal issues on the MetCONNX Armadale to Byford Rail Project.
She holds a Law/Commerce degree from the University of Western Australia and has worked in the construction and major projects sector for the past 16 years.
Belinda is President of the WA branch of the Asian Australian Lawyers Association and is on the WA Committee of the Lighthouse Club, an international charity for construction professionals to assist those in need.
She was awarded WA’s 2023 Woman Lawyer of the Year. and was also a finalist in the 2023 WA Volunteering for Multicultural Communities Award.
Languages: English
Board Member
Melissa has worked for the Commonwealth and State Governments, for local government, with faith-based agencies and in the not-for-profit sector.
She has been a Board member of the Catholic Migrant Centre, Metropolitan Migrant Resource Centre, Kin Advocacy and the National Ethnic Disability Alliance. She was also a WA representative on the Australian Council for Women in the 1990’s.
Melissa speaks Italian and is committed to her new role advocating on behalf of seniors, having been a carer for her elderly parents.
Languages: English, Italian
Board Member
Prof Piyush Sharma is ranked among the top 90 researchers in Australia and was awarded the John Curtin Distinguished Professor title by Curtin University for five years (2022-2027).
He is a co-founder of the Innovation Research Hub in the Faculty of Business and Law and co-leader of the Navigating Inter-Cultural Experience (NICE) Platform at Curtin.
He has worked across a variety of multicultural organisations around the world for over 35 years in both industry and academia in the India and Asia-Pacific regions.
Languages: English, Hindi
Board Member
Assoc Professor Russel Kingshott was the recipient of the 2022 Islamic Community Engagement Award from the Federation of Islamic Councils.
He is a current Board member of the Al Ameen College, with an extensive network in the Islamic community, and a wide range of technical marketing, management and research skills.
He has served on numerous Boards at Curtin University over the years and is also a volunteer civilian instructor for the Australian Air Force Cadets.
Languages: English
Board Member
Halina is a registered nurse with over 40 years of experience in the health sector and specialist skills in a variety of areas.
These include primary health care, plastics, burns, general surgical, rural, Aboriginal health and detention health nursing.
She also has eight years of experience in clinical education as was regional WA health service manager for immigration detention centres for two years. For the last two years, she has been working for the Derbari Yerrigan Health Services as a clinical nurse manager, educator and assessor.
Languages: English
Interim Chief Executive Officer
He is an alumni of the 2023 Signature Leadership Program run by Leadership WA and has managed complex projects and multidisciplinary teams across various sectors.
As an immigrant to Australia 25 years ago, he has dedicated himself to serving the community in various leadership roles within the WA public sector. During his tenure with Consumer Protection WA, he was involved in the review and implementation of the Retirement Villages Act.
He is currently General Manager Building and Energy Industries with the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry, Regulation & Safety (DEMIRS).
Languages: Farsi, English
Manager Social Support Programs and Transport
Robert is one of Umbrella’s longest-serving team members, having been with the organisation since its early days in Bayswater. He currently manages our social support team along with all social support programs and excursions.
In addition, Robert oversees the fleet of vehicles used to transport clients safely to and from their homes and our social support centre every weekday, as well as managing the extensive program of client excursions.
Robert’s empathetic, fair, and professional leadership style fosters a positive, inclusive atmosphere that encourages growth, innovation, and team success.
Known for going above and beyond, Robert consistently brings creative ideas, themed events, and practical solutions to challenges – always prioritising the safety and wellbeing of both clients and staff.
His commitment to continuous improvement and his lasting impact on the social support team and clients make him well-loved leader in the Umbrella team.
Languages: English, Polish, Russian
Business & Finance Manager
Theresa is an experienced Finance Manager with a strong background in the non-profit sector. She holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and brings expertise in financial reporting, business planning, risk management, and compliance.
At Umbrella, Theresa manages the organisation’s business, information technology, and finance portfolios. She oversees grant administration, project funding, and expenditure, as well as managing Australian Government funding for home support services.
Theresa is responsible for accurate financial reporting to funding bodies and government departments, coordinating audits, and ensuring full compliance with the Aged Care Act and relevant governance legislation. Her diligent and strategic approach helps maintain the organisation’s financial integrity and supports its mission to provide high-quality care and services.
Languages: English, Mandarin
Home Support Services Manager
With over 25 years of experience in community services, Fern is a passionate and dedicated leader who has worked in the aged care, disability services and local government sectors. In previous roles, she has managed service delivery teams, ensuring quality and compliance with sector standards and regulations, and customer operations, facilitating engagement with customers and their families.
She has also developed and implemented programs to support the diverse and complex needs of the disability, aged care and homelessness sectors, partnering with stakeholders such as local governments, not for profits and funders.
Fern is skilled in communication, problem-solving, leadership, and customer service, and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the people she serves.
Languages: English
Human Resources Manager
Carol Bosman was appointed Human Resources Manager in July 2023, following her promotion from HR Coordinator. She plays a pivotal role in overseeing all human resources functions for Umbrella Multicultural Community Care, supporting more than 160 staff across two locations, as well as nearly 100 volunteers.
Carol is responsible for the strategic and operational management of HR, working closely with the CEO, leadership team, and staff to ensure best practices in recruitment, performance management, employee wellbeing, dispute resolution, and compliance with legislation and organisational policies.
She also manages grievance, disciplinary, and termination procedures, leads continuous improvement initiatives across HR policies and standards, and acts as a trusted consultant on all employee-related matters.
Carol is dedicated to fostering a positive workplace culture that supports the growth, engagement, and wellbeing of everyone at Umbrella.
Languages: English
Compliance & Quality Assurance Manager
With a background in business from Curtin University’s School of Business and Administration, Gail has cultivated a fulfilling career across executive roles in finance and insurance, with a strong focus on supporting older Australians. For over 15 years, she has worked in residential and community care, specialising in quality assurance, compliance, service delivery, and operations management. A passion for continuous improvement and care has driven Gail to help providers not only meet standards but elevate the experience for those they serve in a rapidly evolving industry.
Caring for people has always been at the heart of what Gail does, and her work has brought some of the most rewarding achievements in her life—second only to raising her two children and best friends. Outside of her professional world, Gail treasures time with her family, friends, and beloved little dog. She is also passionate about music, which brings energy and inspiration into her daily life. Pilates and long walks help her stay grounded and balanced, ensuring she can show up with focus and heart—for both the people she works with and those she cares about most.
Languages: English
Assistant Manager Social Support Programs
Magda oversees our Golden Aged Club and a variety of social support programs that enhance the wellbeing and social connections of our clients. She is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for older people to come together, build friendships, and feel part of a vibrant community.
Magda has been a valued member of the Umbrella team for over 14 years. Her deep understanding of clients’ needs and her hands-on experience in providing care have shaped her client-centred and empathetic approach to program development and management.
In her role, Magda coordinates a diverse calendar of activities, ensuring each program is engaging, inclusive, and responsive to clients’ interests.
Languages: English, Polish
Assistant Manager Social Support Programs
Barbara is Umbrella’s Assistant Manager of Social Support Programs and leads the much-loved Party at Basia’s group every Friday. Known for her warmth and passion for her role, she creates spaces where older people can connect, celebrate, and feel a true sense of belonging.
Barbara has been a valued member of Umbrella for many years, bringing deep experience and a genuine passion for supporting older people. Her long service reflects not only her commitment to our clients, but also the strong relationships she has built within the community.
In her role, Barbara helps oversee a variety of social support programs that enhance wellbeing and inclusion. She ensures that every program she coordinates is not only meaningful and culturally responsive, but also filled with fun, laughter, and connection – values that sit at the heart of Umbrella’s mission.
Languages: English, Polish
Multicultural Manager – Care Finder
As the Multicultural Manager at Umbrella Multicultural Community Care Inc., Fiona leads strategic initiatives that empower older people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) and LGBTIQA+ backgrounds. She focuses on enhancing their access to aged care, community support, and digital literacy.
Fiona oversees a range of key programs, including the Care finder Program, the Carers Gateway program, and the Cyber Security Awareness Program. She also leads Cultural Awareness & Inclusion Programs to help the aged care sector better serve diverse communities.
With a Business Degree in Economics and a Diploma in Community Services, Fiona applies a strategic, impact-driven approach to her work. Her expertise spans strategic program development, stakeholder and government relations, and public advocacy. She is passionate about creating solutions that improve quality of life and contribute to the strategic advancement of diverse communities.
Languages: English, Italian, Albanian
Senior Coordinator of Marketing & Communications
Neelam Dajee is our Senior Marketing and Communications Coordinator, where her dynamic leadership and diverse skill set are invaluable to our team.
She is responsible for managing all our publications, events, social media content, and marketing materials. Her expertise in strategic communication and stakeholder relations is crucial for developing campaigns that strengthen our brand and engage with the communities we serve. Neelam also leverages data-driven marketing strategies to ensure we are effectively growing our reach.
A graduate of Curtin University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Neelam’s skills in photography, videography, graphic design, and copywriting are essential for creating a cohesive and impactful brand presence.
Languages: English, Gujarati, Spanish, Afrikaans
Information Technology Manager
Dominic Toczyski is our IT Manager, and has been with Umbrellla for over 15 years. His long-standing commitment and deep understanding of our organisation’s needs make him a cornerstone of our leadership team.
Dominic is responsible for the overall health and security of our technology infrastructure. His duties include acting as the first point of contact for all technical queries, and he is a master at diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues. He has been instrumental in developing our IT systems to meet the company’s evolving needs, including the rollout of software updates and patches and the ongoing maintenance of our cybersecurity defences.
We rely on Dominic’s expertise and support each and every day at Umbrella.
Languages: English, Polish
ACVVS (Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme) Coordinator
Malgorzata is a long-standing member of our team, serving as the ACVVS & Volunteers Coordinator. With a decade of service at Umbrella, she has grown with the organization, starting as a Front Office Officer and now leading our volunteer programs.
Under Malgorzata’s guidance, our Aged Care Volunteer Visitor’s Scheme (ACVVS) program has achieved significant recognition. It was recently named a finalist in the Inclusive Volunteering category at the Volunteering WA Awards, a testament to the program’s impact and her leadership. This recognition highlights the compassion and dedication that Malgorzata and her team bring to the lives of older people every day.
Malgorzata’s commitment is the backbone of our volunteer success. Her passion for fostering an extraordinary team of volunteers and staff ensures we continue to represent Umbrella with pride and make a meaningful difference in our community.
Languages: English, Polish
Clinical Team Leader
Sue is our Clinical Team Leader, where she leads our dedicated team of registered nurses. Her expertise and commitment are vital to ensuring the well-being of our clients who require higher levels of care.
Sue’s leadership is centred on providing a comprehensive and compassionate approach to clinical support. She oversees the delivery of specialised care, ensuring that every individual receives the tailored attention they need to maintain their health and quality of life.
Under her guidance, our clinical team works diligently to support clients with complex health requirements, ensuring their needs are met with professionalism and empathy. Sue’s unwavering dedication to excellence is a cornerstone of our service delivery, and we are proud to have her at the helm of our clinical operations.
Languages: English