Board of Directors
Dr Pat Johnson - Director
Dr Pat Johnson joined Junaya’s Board of Directors in February 2020 and brings more than 35 years of experience in community services. Dr Johnson has taught at TAFE and has written teacher and learner resources, has experience in child protection and has managed large organizations. Dr Johnson also had a consultancy practice for 25 years and delivered training (DCJ) and co-wrote the SHS Case Management Resource Kit and case management training. In addition, Dr Johnson has written policy manuals, conducted research, strategic planning and provided case management supervision. Dr Johnson has a masters from UWS and a PhD from RMIT.
Daniel Sampson - Chairperson (First Nations)
Danny is a proud Gomeroi & Ngunnawal man with strong family connections to the Bidjigal people of La Perouse. Danny joined Junaya’s Board of Directors in July 2023, bringing a diverse range of skills and experience spanning across Government, Not-for Profit, and Private industries. Danny holds qualifications in Social Science, Project Management, and Leadership & Management. Danny has managed large teams and budgets to deliver policies, strategies, and programs of work that contribute toward the betterment of some of the nations most marginalised, disadvantaged, and impoverished communities. More recently, Danny lead on the delivery of the refreshed NSW Public Service Commission’s Aboriginal Employment Strategy 2022-25. Danny has extensive experience working in collaboration and partnership with Aboriginal individuals, families, and communities, with a strong personal and professional commitment to continuing to support beneficial holistic outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Sherry-Ann Toomey - Director (First Nations)
Sherry Toomey, a proud Wiradjuri woman, has dedicated over two decades to driving positive change for Aboriginal and diverse communities. Her career highlights include her role as Principal Advisor for Workforce Inclusion at the Public Service Commission (PSC) from June 2022 to November 2024. During this time, she launched the Aboriginal Employment Strategy 2022 and led the PSC Closing the Gap Implementation delivery plan, fostering a culturally inclusive workforce. Sherry's expertise in People and Culture, HR services, and closing the gap initiatives has been instrumental in developing diversity and inclusion programs. She created the PSC’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and Everyone's Business cultural capability training. Her efforts earned her the 2018 Premier Award for her contribution to the NSW Public Sector Aboriginal Employment Strategy and the co-design of the Creating Pathways: Aboriginal Career Initiative. Sherry's connection with Junaya Family Development Services dates back to 2005, where she supported key programs as an administrative assistant. Now, as a board member, she continues to give back to the organisation that played a pivotal role in her career. Sherry's journey is marked by dedication, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of positive change, laying the foundation for lasting, systemic improvements for Aboriginal and minority communities in New South Wales.
Michael Healy - Secretary
Michael joined Junaya’s Board in April 2022 and brings with him extensive experience in Government, community and private sectors. Michael holds a Bachelor of Social Science along with a Diploma of Community Services, Certificate IV in Finance and other relevant qualifications. Michael has led and managed large workforces, co-ordinated complex projects, supervised multi-disciplinary teams, whilst building and maintaining key external relationships with various Government and non-Government stakeholders. Michael is passionate about supporting staff and ensuring great care of young people and families. Michael has worked within the youth sector, with people experiencing homelessness, with refugees and other vulnerable people facing complex issues. His vast knowledge and experience is a significant asset for Junaya to achieve high standards in our strategic directions and governance.
Jayne Christian - Director (First Nations)
Jayne is a proud Baramadagal Dharug woman with kinship connection to Wiradjuri Country. Jayne joined Junaya's Board of Directors in December 2024, bringing a diverse range of skills and experience spanning across Federal and State Government and Private Industries. Jayne holds qualifications in law, dispute resolution and sociology. Jayne worked for a decade as a social justice lawyer across Sydney and in regional and remote Aboriginal communities. Jayne worked on inaugural First Nation's Strategy for the City of Parramatta when she chaired the First Nations Advisory Committee between 2022 - 2024 and works with the Treaty Council Worldwide, to uplift and empower Indigenous Communities.
Tess Sayas - Treasurer
Tess Sayas is a Director of Zignal International Pty Ltd, she joined Junaya’s Board of Directors in 2020. Tess holds a Bachelor of Science in Commerce, Major in Accounting and Advance Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy. She has professional experience in Accounting, IT Development, Quality Assurance and Audit and Family Counselling. Tess is also Director/Treasurer of Community Resource Network and a Past President of the Rotary Club of Blacktown City.
Stacey Gardner-Gentles - Director (First Nations)
Stacey is a proud Wiradjuri woman who was born and raised in Western Sydney and is connected to the Aboriginal community. With extensive experience in Local Government and the Public Service, she is known for her results driven approach and leadership in high-volume customer-facing teams. Stacey’s expertise spans contract management, risk assessment, facility coordination, team performance, training, project management, and Governance. She has worked closely with Aboriginal communities, contributing to impactful initiatives. Notably, Stacey led the Indigenous Water Safety campaign (Waterwise), raising awareness of water safety within the Western Sydney Aboriginal community. As Chair of the Western Sydney Koori Interagency, she facilitated collaboration among local agencies and ensured the timely delivery of crucial information, improving support for Aboriginal families. Stacey has also partnered with the Education Centre Against Violence to help deliver the Strong Aboriginal Men program and helped facilitate 40 clinical assessments for Aboriginal children as part of the On Track Assessment Days project, which improved access to essential services and support for Aboriginal families. Stacey is dedicated to bridging service delivery gaps and creating positive outcomes for Aboriginal communities through collaboration, advocacy, and dedication.