Our Board

Down Syndrome WA is governed by a Board, consisting largely of parents, who also have professional skills, including legal, financial and business expertise.

Board Members

Kathryn Salt – Chair

Kathryn is an experienced educator who has successfully integrated students with disabilities into the mainstream educational setting. She is a consultant to parent, schools and education systems on best practice in mainstream integration. More recently Kathryn has been involved in working in the not-for-profit sector with the roll out of the NDIS. She is also a mother of a young adult with Down Syndrome.

Nia Parker – Vice Chair

Nia is a mother of a young adult with a diagnosis of Down Syndrome. Nia’s lived experience gives her a good understanding of accessing services and support, particularly in rural and regional areas of our state where Nia has worked as a physiotherapist. Areas of interest include employment, social opportunities and independent living options.

Korena Xie – Treasurer

Korena is an Audit Manager at Pitcher Partners Perth. As a chartered accountant with over 6 years’ experience in within a professions practice environment, both in Australia and internationally, Korena provides her diverse client base with extensive experience across a full range of business advisory services, striving to provide effective services and maintain good client relationship.

Jessica Davies – Secretary

Jessica is the sister of an adult with a diagnosis of Down Syndrome. Jess recently volunteered to organise our 2021 Gala Dinner which saw over 300 people from the DS Community gather and celebrate all the achievements of our members. This event was responsible for raising over $18,000 for the Association through Jess’s various fundraising efforts. Jess is also a regular volunteer at the Aim High Social Club Events with our 18+ Members.

Sarah Levy

Sarah is a certified Management Accountant bringing a wealth of leadership and financial experience. She is skilled in risk, governance and compliance and has a collaborative approach to problem solving. Sarah also has broad experience in transformation and change. Outside of work, she also volunteers with the DSWA Aim High group.

Sebastien Malinge

Sebastien is an experienced and internationally recognised researcher currently employed by Telethon Kids Institute. Sebastien’s research specialises in paediatric leukemia and blood disorders developed by people with Down syndrome.

Santina Ravenscroft

Santina graduated from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) degree in 2011 and is currently working in the paediatric disability sector. She has diverse clinical and case management experience, NDIS knowledge and works in quality and compliance. Santina values continuous improvement and has attention to detail when identifying gaps and opportunities. She has completed the Emerging Leaders Program at the Australian Institute of Management.

Barbara Sheil

Barbara is a manager of a NFP Foundation. She has a strong clinical research background and is passionate about health equity and creating a healthier community. Barbara has a strong focus on strategy, planning and impact.

Holly Weinbrecht

Holly has been involved with the disability sector since 2010. Since commencing her journey at NDS WA supporting community service and grant programs, Holly has branched out into support work, quality and governance and support coordination, having a thorough understanding of disability providers, NDIA and how people living with disabilities receive their supports.

Brooke Canham – Board Advocate

Brooke is a current DSWA Ambassador with excellent insight into needs of young adults with Down syndrome, and has represented DSA at the Governor-General’s House in 2019. Brooke is a tremendous advocate for people with Down syndrome.