Governing Council

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Affil.AIRAH, GAICD, CPA, MBA

Hi, I’m Ben and I have the pleasure of Chairing your Governing Council.

Our eldest daughter is currently in Year 9 and our youngest daughter is in year 7.  We also live locally in Frewville.

In my role as Chair, governance, culture and people are foremost in my mind.

From a governance perspective, I am a graduate of the AICD and sit on two boards. The first is a not for profit, the largest disability services provider in the Northern Territory and the second an Indigenous owned property company based out of Alice Springs that distributes all profits back to traditional owners of the region. On those boards I chair risk and property committees.

In my day job I am the CEO of local Clean-Tech company Plasma Shield Ltd, where we design and manufacture medical devices that provide clean air.

In my day job I am the CEO of local air-decontamination company Plasma Shield Ltd, where we manufacture medical devices that provide clean air.

Prior to Plasma Shield, I was the Head of Asia Pacific for BrainBox AI, an AI start up using predictive AI to reduce emissions. Artificial Intelligence is a keen area of interest – with my wife Sonja, we are also co-founders in a tiny AI company called ImpactAI.

I have been lucky enough to work in commercial property with The GPT Group and Lend Lease across management, finance, digital and marketing, technology management and governance.
Adelaide is now home and have lived in Darwin, Sydney, Melbourne and the UK also.

Outside of work I try my best to be a good husband and dad, I try and fail to stay fit playing a strange game called Wallball and I definitely spend too much time on Tik Tok…

Prior to Plasma Shield, I was the Head of Asia Pacific for BrainBox AI, an AI start up using predictive AI to reduce emissions. Artificial Intelligence is a keen area of interest – with my wife Sonja, we are also co-founders in a tiny AI company called ImpactAI.

I have been lucky enough to work in commercial property with The GPT Group and Lend Lease across management, finance, digital and marketing, technology management and governance.

Adelaide is now home and have lived in Darwin, Sydney, Melbourne and the UK also.

Outside of work I try my best to be a good husband and dad, I try and fail to stay fit playing a strange game called Wallball and I definitely spend too much time on Tik Tok…

Ask Me About…

• Governance and the process of potentially joining Governing Council;
• The Governing Council Work Plan and what we are focused on; and
• Any other random questions or feedback regarding Governing Council.

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We have three kids, two boys already at GIHS and one girl on her way to Glenunga via Unley Primary School. I grew up in Queensland and have worked and lived across Australia, in Asia, the US and in Europe. A lawyer by training, I have spent most of my life working as a public servant, in Canberra, Washington DC and, most recently, here in Adelaide. As a family, we are involved with the local surf life saving, soccer and open water swimming communities and we are getting to know the mountain biking scene too. As a member of the GIHS Governing Council, I aim to bring my diverse personal and profession experience to the Council’s work in a way that helps the Council to make sound decisions and to be useful to the school community.

Ask Me About…

• The 5Cs and why they matter.
• Pathways to a public service career.
• Preparing to study or work overseas.

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I first got involved with the GIHS through the Financial Advisory Committee, and for me it’s been a wonderful way to step outside the world of hospitals and medicine. My day job is all go — alarms, quick decisions, busy shifts — but being part of the school brings a completely different rhythm. It’s about helping to make sure the school has the strategic support and provide input on educational programs and initiatives to enhance learning outcomes.

As a parent of young kids, I see every day how much a good school matters. I know how important it is for children to feel safe, inspired, and encouraged as they grow. I strongly support Glenunga International High School’s values — ExcellencePB, OpportunityU, International Mindedness and Harmony — which capture exactly what a nurturing and inspiring school environment should be. My own cultural background has shaped my outlook on community, respect, and perseverance. Growing up, in a home where Hindi and Punjabi were spoken, I learned the importance of looking out for others, celebrating diversity, and working hard while remaining grounded. I want children to feel encouraged to explore opportunities, embrace differences, and strive for excellence, while always staying connected to the people and communities around them.

One of my favourite lines from Kipling’s If is: “If you can fill the unforgiving minute with sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,” it reminds me to make the most of every moment, whether at work, at home, or contributing to GIHS.

Ask Me About…

• Role of Governing Council and Financial Advisory Committee.
• Transition from lower year levels to Year 10 and above.
• IGNITE program.

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Hi, I’m Michelle Longden and I’ve been a proud member of the Governing Council since 2022 and I currently hold the position of Secretary, which forms part of the Executive Committee of the GC. I wear a few hats in life — I run my own business here and also support another national business operationally, and I’m also a proud mum of two children and two step children who all attend Glenunga International High School. Like many parents, I juggle family, work, personal and school commitments, but what is of great importance to me is helping our school community thrive.

I joined the Governing Council because I believe that parents play a vital role in shaping the experience our kids have at school. With a background in business and a passion for building strong connections, I bring a practical perspective to school decision-making while always keeping in mind what’s best for students and families.

What I’d love is for parents to see the Council as approachable and relevant. If you’ve ever wondered who to talk to or how your ideas can make a difference, I want to help bridge that gap. For me, it’s about creating open conversations, being visible, and making sure every family feels welcome and a part of our diverse community.

When I’m not working or at school events, you’ll probably find me cheering on my kids, sharing a laugh with friends, or keeping up with the fast pace of life! You may even find me blissfully singing away as I continue to explore one of my passions in life – music 🙂

Ask Me About…

• How have my children navigated the transition from primary school to high school, both through early years and into senior years at Glenunga?
• What resources are available to new families that are becoming part of the Glenunga community?
• What’s the best way to raise an idea or concern with the Council?

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Hello or Hallo! My name is Cornelia Koch and I am a parent member of Governing Council. I have two students at the school. I love that the school is so multi-cultural. My partner and I are migrants to Australia and in our household you can hear English, German and Serbo-Croatian and eat food from German roasts or cakes to Bosnian stews and sweets, mixed with Vegemite and lamingtons. Both children are fluent in German and one is even planning on going to University in Germany. Glenunga International High School is a great fit for our family.

I am Co-Chair of the Community Engagement Committee (CEC). The Committee organises events for families and parents to build a community within the school. In my day job I am a Senior Lecturer in Law and a Teaching Specialist at university. I find it wonderful that the school makes students take responsibility for their learning and focusses on developing 21st century professional skills. These lay the foundation for successful and fulfilling lives for our young people.

Ask Me About…

• How parents can get involved in Governing Council family and parent events.
• The school’s wellbeing program, especially Elevate and the work that the Pod team is doing.
• Having children at GIHS when you have not gone through school in Australia yourself.

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I’m a local parent with three kids at GIHS in Year 9 , 10 and 12, so I’ve got a front-row seat to the many opportunities and challenges our students experience across different year levels.

Outside of school life, I run my own IT consulting business, working with councils and organisations to help them adapt, solve problems, and deliver better services. I bring those same skills to my role on Governing Council – listening, suggesting practical solutions, and helping ideas turn into action.

As co-chair of the Community Engagement Committee, I’m passionate about finding ways for parents to feel more connected to what’s happening at Glenunga and making sure our students can explore the many academic, cultural, and co-curricular opportunities available to them. Over the years, my kids have been involved in sport, debating, leadership programs, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award, so I understand how much these experiences shape their confidence and sense of belonging.

Ask Me About…

• Helping your student find their place at Glenunga.
• Navigating the school journey from junior to senior years.
• How you can get involved and stay connected as a parent in the school community.

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Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and Fellow Certified Practicing Accountant (FCPA) with over fifteen years’ experience in consolidation reporting within both financial and management accounting functions. Expertise encompasses monthly financial, budget and forecasting analysis and the implementation of process improvements. Strengths include strong technical knowledge and interpersonal skills, combined with an ability to identify trends, risks and opportunities to develop and deliver viable strategies and solutions ensuring the achievement of successful business outcomes.

Current board experience includes Chair of Women’s Safety Services, Treasurer of Glen Osmond Primary School, and member of the GIHS FAC Committee.

Ask Me About…

• Year 9 student matters
• Governing Councils connection to Community Engagement
• Governance of Governing Council

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My name is Christian Frandsen and I have been a proud member of the Governing Council since 2022. My wife and I are the parents of two students currently attending GIHS. We are a multi-cultural family that has lived and worked on five continents—only missing Antarctica and Latin America to complete the set!

Professionally, I am a Technical Director and Structural Bridge Designer. So, I am passionate about STEM education and my commitment to increasing diversity within engineering and related fields. I believe in creating inclusive pathways for all students to explore and thrive in STEM careers.

I feel privileged and lucky that we ended up at GIHS, because I really appreciate the values-based culture. Our family has experienced the benefits of this firsthand, particularly through the support and understanding shown to one of our daughters who has learning and development difficulties. It’s a culture that fosters belonging, growth, and resilience.

Ask Me About…

• Topics you want Governing Council to consider.
• STEM careers and diversity in engineering.
• The values-based culture at GIHS and its impact on student wellbeing.

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I’m a parent of three, including twin daughters who are in Year 10 at GIHS in 2025. A migrant from Kenya, every day is an adventure like none other as my family navigates life in Australia.

Professionally, I hold graduate qualifications in Agriculture and postgraduate degrees in both Economics and Psychology. My career has spanned various sectors, both in Australia and internationally, giving me a broad perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse educational and career pathways.

Fluent in English, Swahili, and Luhya, I value open communication and cultural connection. As a proud advocate of cultural integration, I enjoy sharing my heritage and contributing to conversations that build understanding, respect, and inclusion across our school community.

Ask Me About…

• The well-being of minority children in our large multicultural school.
• Transitioning from private schools or enrolling from outside the GIHS zone.
• School finances and budgeting processes.

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Throughout my career in global corporate organisations, primarily in Europe, my passion for learning and innovation has been a consistent thread. I have always been drawn to opportunities that expand knowledge, encourage curiosity, and empower others to grow.

I am the parent of two daughters, one in Year 7 and the other in year 9. This personal connection has motivated me to support their school community by contributing both a parent’s perspective and my professional experience. I am committed to helping GIHS build partnerships with community and industry to enrich student learning and provide every student with the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Another topic close to my heart is the mental health and wellbeing of young people. I believe it is vital that every student feels safe, supported, and valued. A strong sense of belonging and wellbeing is also instrumental in enabling them to learn effectively, build resilience, and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Early in my career, I was particularly inspired by Sir Ken Robinson’s TEDx talks. His call for a paradigm shift in education, away from standardisation and towards creativity and innovation, resonated with me. His belief that education should prepare us not only for the jobs of today but also for the evolving skill sets of tomorrow remains highly relevant. This perspective continues to guide how I view the future of work and the role of education in preparing students for it.

Ask Me About…

• Anything you are curious about and believe I might have some insights on
• Opportunities and experiences for Years 7, 8, and 9 students
• The future of work and the impact of technologies such as AI

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MSocSc (Social Anthropology), Dip Spanish, MAICD

My name is Sebastian, and I joined the Governing Council in 2026. I am originally from Sweden, and together with my partner, who is from Kenya, we live locally in Burnside. We have two boys, and the oldest has just started at Glenunga International, and is currently in year 7.

I strongly believe in Glenunga’s approach to holistic learning, and the focus on each student’s learning potential and to build up individual values-based capabilities along academic learning. I joined as a parent representative to engage with and support this learning environment through the work of the Governing Council. I also believe in the broader community of a high school, so I am looking forward to supporting our excellent community events, so hope to see many other fellow parents there.

Professionally, I have worked in higher education all my life, and right now I have quite a number of different irons in the fire. Following 10 years as Vice-President and Pro-Vice Chancellor International at Flinders University, I now run my own consulting firm providing governance and business development services to higher education institutions and vocational providers. I am also the CEO for a newly established higher education institute, preparing our registration application with the national regulator TEQSA, planning for campus launches in Adelaide and Melbourne in 2028. I sit on a couple of other boards and committees in the education sector, and finally I am also Honorary Consul for Sweden in South Australia, and an active member of the Steering Committee for the Diplomatic Consular Corps in South Australia, responsible for Governance, Communication and Member Liaison.

Ask Me About…

• The benefits of international education/international mindedness
• Tertiary study – University or VET
• Transition to high school

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MSTA (UK), B.BusSys

Proud father of 3 School Prefects this year, my son is Head Prefect.

All 3 aim to study Medicine, my role is creating the conditions for us to live the Glenunga values at home, particularly Character and Citizenship.

Born in Australia, long-time local resident after 9 years in Mayfair working in the global energy market, I chose the Glenunga school zone as the best place in the world to raise my 3 children. Glenunga International High School was and remains the best ranked school in South Australia, public or private; let’s keep it that way.

Australian Community Father of the Year 2026 Nominee, Police Volunteer, Neighbourhood Watch Area Coordinator and State Councillor, awarded the Special Service Award as a Beaumont Scout leader.

Ask me about
• The decision on SACE or IB
• VET and Certificate III
• Scouts and the King’s Scout Award

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B.Eng., MBA

Hi, I am Louis. I was born in China, and my bond to this fair land began in early 1990 when I arrived in Melbourne from Beijing as a student. Over the next five years, I not only completed my postgraduate education in Australia and became an Australian citizen, but also shaped my values and principles in life.

After earning an MBA from Monash University, I began my international career with an engineering company in Darwin. I later spent over 25 years in Shanghai with two German companies, holding leadership roles across product management, marketing & sales, and eventually leading the company’s China operations for 8 years.

Our family relocated from Shanghai to Adelaide in early 2024, and I joined them at the end of 2024. We have three daughters – two at GIHS, and our eldest, who started university in 2026. As a family, we enjoy sports, music, and spending time together cooking and eating 😊.

I strongly support the school’s commitment to building student agency, fostering cognitive engagement, and developing capabilities alongside academic learning. As a member of the Governing Council, I am dedicated to drawing on my knowledge and experience to support the school’s continued striving for excellence and to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Ask Me About…

• The Governing Council: roles and how parents can get involved
• Settling into Adelaide and GIHS as a recently arrived family from a diverse background
• Supporting students with additional language capabilities and a global perspective