Our Governance
The CBR Gals Network Inc has a multi-tiered governance structure, ranging from strategic to operational levels. Our governance is entirely volunteer-run with everyone involved sharing the vision for a more inclusive and equitable Canberra.
HOW THINGS GET DONE
The CBR Gals Network Inc relies on several groups of dedicated volunteers:
The Board is composed of particularly interested individuals who can dedicate time to setting strategiess and leading our operations.
Our Members represent a small fraction of the people we aim to positively impact. While legislation requires a certain number of members, we aren’t a membership-focused organisation; we’re here for the whole Canberra community.
Our Volunteers dedicate time to our operations such as social media and event execution.
Our Sub-committees are responsible for carrying out activities delegated by the Board.
Our Expert Advisors inform our best practice governance, strategy and operations.
GOVERNANCE IN PRACTICE
The CBR Gals Network Inc operates with a dynamic and inclusive governance structure designed to connect, guide and empower its community. At its core, the Governing Board drives strategic decisions, informed by input from members, the broader CBR community and expert advisors from community organisations, government and industry. Implementation is carried out through three dedicated sub-committees: Individuals, Community and Business, each focusing on key areas of impact. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting these initiatives, ensuring that the Network’s vision for inclusivity and equity translates into actionable outcomes for all stakeholders.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The CBR Gals Network Board is elected every three years. In the 2024 session, our board consists of:
President: Rae Knopik
Rae Knopik (she/her) is a feminist, author, and award-winning founder of multiple social enterprises. She’s the 2022 Young Canberra Business Woman of the Year, a 2021 ACT Woman of the Year Finalist and an Inductee to the ACT Women’s Honour Roll.
A renowned speaker and writer, Rae discusses circular fashion, climate, gender inequality and the significance of connections to land, air, seas, and people.
VACANCY: Vice President, Non-Executive Director of Fundraising
This Could Be You!
Check out our Join our Board Page to learn more
Treasurer: Zahra Rezayazdi
With a career spanning diverse industries, from nimble startups to thriving mid-sized enterprises, Zahra (she/her) is the driving force behind our sound financial decisions. As a professional accountant, Zahra enjoys working as part of a team to help with business decisions and finds the tangible impact on the business very rewarding.Â
Armed with a Bachelor of Commerce, where she majored in accounting and financial planning, Zahra is currently studying to become a Certified Practising Accountant.
But Zahra is not all about spreadsheets and balance sheets. Beyond her desk, you’ll often find her spiking it on the volleyball courts, smashing serves and scoring points with the same determination she brings to our financial strategies.Â
Secretary: Liz Portolessi
Non-Executive Director of Communications: Alexandra Markey
Alex (she/her) brings her enthusiasm and a wealth of diverse experiences to the CBR Gals Network board as our Non-Executive Director of Communications. In 2016, she made the bold move from Brisbane to Canberra to pursue her passion for Museum and Heritage Studies, earning her Master’s degree. Her journey led her to explore various facets of the Galleries, Libraries, and Museums industry before taking a significant leap into Project Management and Consulting, where she currently thrives as a Change Manager at the National Library of Australia.
Alexandra’s relocation to Canberra unveiled the challenges of finding one’s community in a new city. She discovered the CBR Gals Network in 2023 and was instantly captivated by its dynamic and supportive community. Driven by her passions for effective communication and her newfound home in Canberra, Alex joined CBR Gals with a strong desire to make a positive impact.
want to volunteer with us?
We’re always on the lookout for interested people to get involved as volunteers. Develop your skills in operations, strategy, event management, social media and more! Let us know and we’ll get started.