Our Team

Maryann is married to Matt and is mum to three little girls. Together they church at C3 church, Ryde. Maryann normally works as a primary school teacher but has taken time off to be at home with her girls. After teaching herself to sew, Maryann ran an online handmade store which saw her make children’s clothing, kids décor as well as dolls.  She loves sewing, succulents, tea, collecting vintage Pyrex and hoarding fabrics with an inability to pass by an op-shop.

In late 2015, Maryann heard a whisper of an idea in her heart and although a soft whisper, it resonated loudly within. Although simple -makes dolls for children in need, she felt the impact would be more profound than just gifting a toy. Her vision is to see Play and Learn packs reach children who are disadvantaged and have little when it comes to resources which encourage play and learning. Maryann believes Project KIN can educate, empower and equip various groups of people- the children receiving packs, parents/carers who share the experiences of the packs, as well as the volunteers who get involved in making the packs. She is overjoyed and thankful that her team have not only caught the vision but have been big drivers in building the foundations of the organisation and in developing project resources. Maryann’s prayer is that this tiny mustard seed would become a powerful movement – seeing kindness change the hearts of kids globally.

Ali recently completed her PhD in New Testament Studies and was a former Children’s and Youth minister in the Sydney Diocese, but she now has the joy of looking after her two small children full-time. Ali is married to Jonny and together they go to church at St Paul’s Castle Hill with their girls. Having served in different churches over the past 12 years Ali has developed a love for teaching the bible, training young people and using creative methods to explore the gospel. As well as ministry focused activities, Ali also loves reading, sleeping, exercising, drinking tea, playing with her girls, and holidaying to Disneyland.

Margaret is mother of four and nanna to four beautiful grandchildren.

She has 40+ years of secondary school teaching experience, however is now thoroughly enjoying retirement.

Margaret regularly attends Macquarie Presbyterian Church. She loves reading, travelling, movies, visiting galleries, attending concerts with friends and of course spending time with her grandchildren.

Margaret loves the vision of the project and is passionate about bringing love and kindness to those who are in need.

Brooke is a Speech Pathologist, and has been working in Early Intervention and community development for over 10 years. She is passionate about helping families from vulnerable communities support their children’s early development. Brooke attends Christian City Church Ryde, and loves doing ministry with kids and young families. In her free time, she loves spending time with her two children, laughing with friends, reading, going to the beach and cafes, shopping and going on holidays to tropical places! Brooke is passionate about the work of Project KIN, and how it will positively impact the development and spiritual life of young children and their families.

Sherly was working in the financial industry for many years before she became a full time mum. She is married to Evan who is the children ministry leader at their church. She attends ROCK Sydney (Representative Of Christ Kingdom) Church in Artarmon. Sherly is encouraged by the work of Project KIN and its vision.

Her dream is to one day open up an orphanage that affirms the orphans that they matter and that their life is precious. In her down time, she loves to cook and do silly stuff together with her boys.

Wyanita lives in Toowoomba, QLD with her husband Richard and their active 2 year old son. Wyanita has a background in Graphic Design and is currently working in Project Management. When she is not working you will find her creating, socialising or planning her next family travel adventure as she listens to her favourite music playing in the background.

Wyanita is inspired by the mission of Project KIN to empower, educate and equip underprivileged communities through gifting play and learn packs. She welcomes any chance to get out her sewing machine and loves the idea of making dolls to add to the play and learn packs.

Dawn is married to Alby, who is the minister of Grace Anglican Church, and has three beautiful children under the age of 10.  Dawn was an animator at Disney Animation Australia for a number of years before having children.  She is now a freelance photographer and has been spending more time as an illustrator.

Dawn serves in a number of ministries at church, including a music playground, church band, and reading the Bible with women.  She loves interesting documentaries, Japanese food, beautiful illustrations and spending time with her family.

Balancing her photography business with raising two sweet little girls, Stefanie is also a lover of sewing and handmade crafts. With a previous work background in not-for-profit organisations and schools, she is proud to use her photography skills in support of Project KIN. She and her family are members of C3 Ryde Church.