Change The One is the simple vision of its founder and chairperson, Peter Nicholls, that came about when inspecting the devastation of a Tsunami in Papua New Guinea back in 1997.
Our Team
Meet Our Team
Peter Nicholls
“Peter recalls that first encounter: “As I stood on top of the rubble, trees, rocks and silt, 3 stories high that had been cleared off the road and stretched as far as the eye could see, I looked to the heavens in utter frustration and helplessness, cursed for the little I could do – the task was insurmountable.
Peter later found himself on a family holiday to Vietnam, meeting with local people and forming close friendships with people with a similar passion for assisting those in need. As those friendships grew, and it became apparent the limited amount of resources available, Peters’ offer of assistance was warmly welcomed. The raising of funds contributes to assisting those in need in both Papua New Guinea & Vietnam.
Peter Nicholls
Founder and Chairperson
Will Conyers
Change the One are thrilled and excited to announce that the effervescent, Will Conyers has agreed to become the Ambassador to our heart-filled Charity…
With a vast experience in many areas, Will Conyers' biog reads: Director, Musical Director, Vocal Coach, Actor, Singer, Voice over Artist, Event Manager/Producer and lots, lots more….
To quote Will,
I have watched CHANGE THE ONE grow almost from its inception. That growth has been of a warp factor uncommonly seen. This rapid growth can only be attributed to the relentless passion, positivity, drive and commitment of one man, the founder and great friend, Peter Nicholls. "Spend just a few minutes with Peter and CHANGE THE ONE will be the passionate subject of conversation.... Peter is performing miracles with this charity, his work, his passion, his life is relentless; I am so inspired! Over many years, I have happily engaged in fund-raising/awareness-raising events as a performer for CTO during that growth period, but nothing could have prepared me for the honour of being asked to be its Ambassador! I have graciously accepted this humbling role and vow to bring all my acquired experience in the NFP (Not for profit) sector to this role, with what ever it needs, with what ever it takes! I will draw on my 20 years+ experience with the Green Room Awards Association Inc., my 6+ years volunteer work with JOY 94.9, my time with the Red Cross and the Royal Women's Hospital (Oncology Unit), Patron of the Mt Gambier Eisteddfod, the countless charity concerts I have either directed or performed in, and my work with the Hats Off/Equity Fights AIDS movement to provide Change the One with all that it requires moving forward. To be given any opportunity to play a role in providing possible Peace, Hope and Optimism for those who need these most, is an unspeakable honour in this rough and tumble world of uncertainty that we all find ourselves in - in our various situations... I am honoured and humbled to accept the role of Ambassador for CHANGE THE ONE.
Change The One Members are involved in the various roles that help to run and support the organisation's activities. Whether that is on the Committee, in sub-committees or working on specific projects they all contribute to the success of Change The One.
Glenn Ritchie
Deputy Chairperson - Events/Philippines programme director
Glenn Ritchie
Deputy Chairperson -Events/Philippines programme directorGlenn Ritchie, along with his wife, Annaliza are the proud owners of the family company, Surf Coast Shutters and Shade; the business, based in Geelong, offers the domestic market, supply and installation of Roller, Aluminium Louvre & Plantation type Shutters, as well as External Window, Patio, Cafe & Ziptrak Blinds. Glenn is a born again Christian who recently completed his Diploma of Ministry with the mindset of getting out into the world and helping others less fortunate to those who call Australia home. Glenn has other talents that he brings to Change the One, having long standing experience within the construction (Carpenter by trade), entertainment & theatrical industries; his endeavours have made him quite versatile in both Management & Production areas. Being married into the Filipino community, it has allowed him to see & experience, first hand, the needs and wants of those living embedded in poverty. Glenn believes that by taking little steps, we can all make a difference; taking the time to do each project well before moving on to the next… He says, “If all of us were to make a difference to just one person’s situation, then we could all sit back and say that I have ‘Changed the One’!” It’s not just money that we bring, but a fulfilment of needs supplied, along with a lot of Love and Hope to empower ’The One’ to make their future a brighter one!
Brae Nicholls
Committee Member - Social Media & Events
Brae Nicholls
Committee Member - Social Media & EventsThis is Brae's first time volunteering for a charity, but he is eager to help Change the One make a difference and help those in need. He has watched his father, Peter, change several lives over the years and thought it was time he followed in his father's footsteps to help make the world a better place. His new found eagerness was sparked on by his recent visit to Guatemala, after seeing what the conditions can be like in other countries, Brae found inspiration to help in any way he can, starting with the development of his father's charity.
Max Hamond
Committee Member - Events & Publicity
Max Hamond
Committee Member - Events/PublicityMax Hamond is a Director of Trident Leasing, alongside the Charity’s Founder Peter Nicholls. Max and Trident Leasing assist Change the One, Charity by creating Fundraising events, which Max has been involved with for many years. An upstanding citizen in the Ballarat community, Max always provides help for Charities by hosting or organising events. Max has a huge connection to the community and continues to get involved with many charities to raise money for much needed causes. Max Hamond knows that the principals and missions of Change the One are of a standard that Max is more than happy & proud to put his name to.
Ravijeet Dang
Web design/India programme director
Ravijeet Dang
Web design/ India programme directorRavijeet Dang, brings along a massive web development and technology platform development experience. He is involved with Change The One to make sure the platform is working and providing all necessary information to everyone involved. Also, he believes it will be a great advantage for India to have Change The One and bring that change to make world a better place.
Diana Ambrozie
Social media & events
Diana Ambrozie
Social media & eventsDiana Ambrozie is the Director and Business Development Manager of Paintline P/L that provides Commercial and Residential painting and decorating services to Melbourne, VIC. Diana is well networked and is also very resourceful and a skilled lateral thinker who enjoys problem solving. She has also volunteered for The Salvation Army Resource Centre, has gone through the Lifeline telephone counselling training and her burning desire is to help others. Born in Romania during the communist regime, Diana offers insight and a unique understanding of the impacts of it and the importance of developing sustainable ways to empower those affected by difficult circumstances. Working alongside Change the One with their principals is the perfect fit for Diana.
Will Conyers
Ambassador
Ravijeet Dang
AmbassadorTheatre stalwart, Will Conyers has worked extensively in all branches of the entertainment industry since the age of 6. Performing in piano bars, cabaret to opera and rock opera, theatre, film and T.V soap operas. A graduate of the National Theatre Drama School (1980), he returned there to be the founding Director of the Musical Theatre Course (1996-1998). He also studied with esteemed NY Acting and Music Theatre teacher, Carol-Fox Prescott. Will also has an extensive career behind the scenes through directing, choreographing, production management and producing. In addition, Will has lectured at almost all the major tertiary performing arts institutions in Acting, Voice and Musical Theatre. He was Head of Acting at CQU (2000-03) and is regularly asked to adjudicate in Festivals and Eistedfodds. He, along with Nancye Hayes AM OAM, was chosen to take up an Artist-Residence at WAAPA in 1995. He continues to Guest Lecture at almost all the tertiary Music Theatre courses along the eastern seaboard. Will also takes his voice expertise into the corporate sector across several industries, through innovative games and bespoke techniques, facilitating workshops and classes in voice management and production, for leadership, coaching, influencing, and vocal communication and vocal health. Will is very proud of his 20 years volunteer service to The Green Room Awards Assoc Inc. In that time, he served as Music Theatre panel head, Secretary, Vice-President and President. His service was rewarded with a Life Membership to the Association. For 6 years, Will was also the host of the hugely successful Broadway at Bedtime on JOY 94.9 and was the Artistic Director of Downstairs at Alma's.
Zufendy Wu
Committee Member
Zufendy Wu
Insurance Broker SpecialistZufendy Wu is the Managing Director of InsureRisk – an insurance broker specialist helping SME and Corporate businesses with their insurance protection and claims services. Zuf specialises in Risk Management as well as advising Board of Directors with their company risk and protection solution. Zuf always has a passion to help the less fortunate and had in the past assisted many other charities either by donation in kind, time or money or by way of sponsorships. With Peter’s passion and Change The One mission to provide 100% money raised for the needy – it is the perfect opportunity for Zuf to contribute to the Charity.
Eric De Ravel
Treasurer
Eric De Ravel
TreasurerEric is the managing partner of Teamwork Accounting with offices in Point Cook and Brighton, providing bookkeeping, accounting and tax advice and services to SMEs and SMSFs. Teamwork Accounting also has a joint venture with Partners Wealth Group who provide financial planning advice to their clients. His role in Change the One will be to manage the financial records and ensure that all income and expenditure is correctly accounted for. Eric has been on the board of many sporting clubs, the more recent of which is the Williamstown Bowls Club.
Heidi Rodgers
Committee Member - Social Media & Events
Heidi Rodgers
Committee Member - Social Media & EventsHeidi Rodgers is a Business Development & Senior Property Manager for Hayden Real Estate that specialises in offering high levels of Residential Property Management services with a difference. Heidi has previously volunteered her services with various volunteer projects and charities over the years both locally and overseas. Having grown up in a family that are all strong volunteers both past and present and a constant source of inspiration. Heidi is solutions focussed and wants to assist and give back to others far less fortunate. Always looking to show kindness and bring joy to those who face challenges in life that may be beyond their skill set to carve out a better future, that is why Change the One fits with her core Values and looks forward to working closely with Peter Nicholls and the committee at the Change the One.
Molly Faulkner
Social media & events/central America programme director
Molly Faulkner
Social media & events/central America programme directorMolly Faulkner became involved in the global philanthropic world at a young age, running youth hikes and English classes for underrepresented youth in Spain at 15 years of age. More recently, at 19, she was involved in an intense period of volunteering in Guatemala. From this sometimes traumatic, often difficult and always rewarding experience, Molly learnt just how impactful genuine human connection and care can be. She strongly believes that if done well, international aid work can facilitate these connections and can leave a positive influence on individuals and communities. Her humanitarian philosophy rests on a foundation of mutual respect and compassion, and can be considered a ‘hand up rather than hand out’ approach. It is with this background and these beliefs she hopes to one day open up her own boarding school in Central America. She is honoured to be a part of Change the One, and can’t wait to witness and contribute to the growth that comes from Pete’s charitable work.
Josie Kearsey
Committee Member - Events, Major Fundraising & Publicity
Josie Kearsey
Committee Member - Events, Major Fundraising & PublicityJosie Kearsey – Klass Events Director – Klass Events Conference and Special Events Management – Beyond Expectation Josie has a vast history of experience in creating and managing all types and styles of events. Her expertise in the event management space incorporates all styles and categories of event management, including charity events, business expos, fundraising ventures, social and community functions. Her passion to see results and positive outcomes for the principal stakeholders is by creating events which are cleverly designed, meticulously managed, distinctive and results-driven, whilst making a lasting impression that inspires and motivates. Josie combines her vast business experience including call centre management, business leadership, staff management and training, team building and project management into the event arena. Josie goes beyond expectation and ensures that any event she manages or creates have the hallmarks of professionalism and class. She looks forward to utilizing her skills to raise awareness & funds for the missions of Change the One. www.klassevents.com josie@klassevents.com M: 0418578339
Chris Tierney
Secretary
Chris Tierney
SecretaryChris Tierney, Chris has over 40 years of experience in large and small businesses, corporate and start-ups, working with senior management and entrepreneurs across all areas of business, Chris has a range and depth of experience and knowledge. He is currently Company Secretary at DCP Company Ltd, a Director at Ecovantage Pty Ltd and Company Secretary at the Australian Musician Network Pty Ltd. Chris is a firm believer in community, protection of the environment & assisting those in need. Change the One was the perfect direction for Chris to devote his time to “give back” & having have been lifelong friends for over 40 years with Peter (the founder of Change the One) it was opportunity he cherished.
David Payne
IT support, social media & events
David Payne
IT support, social media & eventsDavid Payne is the Managing Director of Payneless IT an organisation that provides managed IT services to small and medium enterprises. The organisation assists Change the One with technology related endeavours and can increase its communication and web presence. David has been involved in youth mentoring programs for Melbourne City Mission and MOIRA. In 2017 David performed a charity bike ride, riding solo from Sydney to Melbourne within 5 days raising in excess of $15,000 for the Moira Kelly Creating Hope Foundation assisting Moira in her efforts to provide comfort, hope, protection and safety to children and families. The principals & missions of Change the One are of the standard David is proud to have his name & company associated with.
Change The One
Our History
Change The One is a simple vision of its founder, Peter Nicholls, that came about when inspecting the devastation of a Tsunami in Papua New Guinea back in 1997.
Peter recalls that first encounter:
“As I stood on top of the rubble, trees, rocks and silt, 3 stories high that had been cleared off the road and stretched as far as the eye could see, I looked to the heavens in utter frustration and helplessness, cursed for the little I could do – the task was insurmountable.
Our inspection continued further with my guides, a group of locals with a beat up old 4 wheel drive. The dust, humidity and feelings of helplessness were unbearable.
Our descent down a steep hill saw the brakes smoking and on fire. As I stood beside the road watching my local companions pour creek water on the ensuing disaster, the tears of utter despair welled up – what on earth was I trying to do?
A group of children appeared, seemingly out of nowhere. These children had heard of the work we had done in the nearby village of Buna, were so happy and wanted to meet me. It was at that moment I realised I had been trying to change the world and I didn’t need to – I needed to Change The One.
Those children went home happy and shared the story with their families. Each one of those children had taken that happiness to another child, who took it took another and so the happiness grew”
Peter later found himself on a family holiday to Vietnam, meeting with local people and forming close friendships with people with a similar passion for assisting those in need. As those friendships grew, and it became apparent the limited amount of resources available, Peters’ offer of assistance was warmly welcomed. The raising of funds contributes to assisting those in need in both Papua New Guinea & Vietnam.
Peter and local volunteers build classrooms & teachers quarters in remote areas. To assist in development within their community we provide facilities such as, learning materials, school supplies, food and bedding, fresh water, self-sustainable farming by establishing Chicken, Duck and Goat farms. And continued support for those effected by Agent Orange.
100% of monies raised goes towards helping local people in need. All work completed by Peter and local volunteers is 100% voluntary.
In July 2018 Change The One became a registered Charity and since then has grown its number of volunteers and projects. There is more to be done,
Together we can change the world when we Change The One.
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Changing the World with one act of kindness at a time
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