Apropela's National Ambassadors
Our National Ambassadors are high-profile individuals who keep Apropela's name and mission current in the public, using their platform and networks to promote Apropela, identify and introduce Connectors and to provide high-quality connections themselves.
Our National Ambassadors

Ana Marinkovic is a senior executive whose career spans over 20 years in financial services. She is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion and equality of opportunity.

As founder of B2B communications house Mahlab, Bobbi successfully transformed Mahlab from a print publisher to a globally operating digital content agency.

Carol has a passion for entrepreneurship and is one of Australia’s leading business identities recognised as an esteemed commentator on governance, social enterprise, gender equality, women’s leadership, business and finance issues.

Colette is a passionate participant and supporter of the startup and innovation ecosystem. She has had hands-on experience in startups, corporate innovation, research commercialisation and customer experience roles in North America, South Africa, Australia and the UK.

Colin is a Mergers & Acquisitions specialist with a track record for supporting entrepreneurs. He is particularly passionate about assisting early stage founders.

Craig is a a huge advocate for equality, inclusion and diversity - both on and off the court.


David Thodey is a business leader focused on innovation and technology, with more than 30 years’ experience creating brand and shareholder value. He is active in public policy, innovation and corporate governance.

As co-head of ABGF Ghazaleh oversees a public-private partnership between the Federal Government and 6 banks that provides long-term, patient growth capital for SMEs.


Helen has considerable experience in the successful development of commercial operations, and in her role at Australian Industry Group is a champion for helping members to ultimately grow their businesses in sustainable ways.


A senior executive and consulting veteran with 20+ years experience in the Medical Device, FMCG, Retail, and Technology industries, Janet is also a co-founder of Apropela.

A leader in medical research, Karen contributes to the strategic and regulatory direction of research into the genomic causes of inherited immune diseases.

In her capacity at McKinnon, Leigh is a champion for real change; committed to facilitating the development of political leadership and accelerating policy innovation.

Lynn is a talent in financial services, an experienced executive and an advocate for Diversity & Inclusion. She is a member of Chief Executive Women (CEW).

Malia is a Partner in EY’s Government Incentives practice, the EY Private Oceania Start-up & Entrepreneurship Leader and proud Mum of two active boys.

A senior banking executive with substantial international experience, Mala is also a member of Chief Executive Women (CEW) and is an Angel Investor with Scale Investors.

A co-founder of Omera Partners, Matt has 20 years experience in connecting clients with people of excellence.

An entrepreneur herself and former Shark on Australian Shark Tank, Naomi loves to be continually challenged to learn and grow in business, and to share her learnings and experience with others.

Nicola is a highly experienced NED, with a background in international investment management in Sydney, London and Boston.

Renece is the Co-Founder of Her Tech Circle, a newly established independent organisation dedicated to empowering women in technology in Australia. Previously, she served as the Co-Managing Director of Girls in Tech Australia, a volunteer-led, global non-profit organization.

With over two decades in the technology ecosystem, Rianne has worked with diverse teams, customers and partners through Europe and the Asia-Pacific; and is committed to making a positive impact in the region.

Noticing a gap for customer-focused insurance solutions, Richard founded Hollard Insurance in 1999. He is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, emphasising that a diverse workplace is crucial for long-term success.

An entrepreneur and pioneer in the insurance industry, Rob founded Steadfast Insurance in 1996 - Australasia's largest general insurance broker networker and group of underwriters.

Rosanna is an experienced advisor,NED and C-Suite executive, and a leader of ESG Transformation and Innovation practice at the Growth Activists. She is a regular member of Apropela's Screening Committee for new Portfolio members.

As a wealth advisor specialising in UK Pensions and Australian Superannuation, Sara makes retirement planning simple. She is a co-founder of Apropela.
"Heads Over Heels expanded our reach, network and our profile. We got clients, partners and opportunities to do some PR.
One of our investors said she met someone who told her she’d seen me pitch at Heads Over Heels - that shows the extent of the reach and that the profile building continues well beyond that short time frame of post the actual pitch. "

Meet Our Board
Our Board represent an incredible depth of expertise from the entrepreneurial, start-up and venture ecosystem. They ensure that Apropela's operations remain impactful and relevant.