AUSTRALIA

DIRECTOR

Maria Halphen is originally from Sweden and an international collaborator on stigma research. She was inspired by the harrowing experiences of Susie Hincks, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. As a result of further discussions with the wider mental health community, Maria gained valuable insights into the issues faced by those living with mental illness. Maria decided to devote her time and energy to create a foundation for encouraging and coordinating research at an international level and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through communication and education. Maria is also the President of the Philippe and Maria Halphen Foundation, which is under the auspices of the French Academy of Science in Paris, France.

DIRECTOR

Keith Wilson is a former Western Australian Minister of Health and former chair of the Mental Health Council of Australia. He has been involved in ongoing mental health advocacy through membership of non-government agencies such as WA Association for Mental Health, the Mental Illness Fellowship WA, Carers WA, and the Learning and Attentional Disorders Society of WA. Keith was a member of the Board of St John Health Care for 10 years. He was awarded the Centenary Medal (2001) for service to people with a mental illness and their carers. He is also a Member of the Order of Australia (2009) and is a director of Meeting for Minds. Keith is a powerful voice promoting the cause of mental health not only in Australia but globally.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Paisley has been contributing to Meeting for Minds since 2020. She co-founded the 20Peace initiative, supported the successful delivery of the World in a Brainstorm Forum 2023, and plays a key role in the SYNERGIES program implementation. Based in Perth, Western Australia, Paisley is an experienced coach and facilitator with a strong focus on wellbeing, community engagement, and spirituality. Her extensive international learning and professional experience underpin her ability to support organisations and individuals in building meaningful connections and resilience.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PHILANTHROPY & GRANTS

CAMERA PERSON / MARKETING

Since 2020, Angelique has been the dedicated videographer for the SYNERGIES projects in Perth, capturing powerful stories and insights that bridge lived experience and mental health research. Passionate about meaningful storytelling, Angelique is committed to raising awareness and fostering engagement around brain science and mental illness.

SOCIAL MARKETING

2026 Recruit, Alyssa whilst studying full-time will be assisting with social marketing and random tasks that need her magic touch.