CEO
Fiona Cornforth is a Wuthathi descendant of the far northeast cape of Queensland with family roots also in the Torres Strait Islands. She has an extensive background working as part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ community, business and government initiatives for better outcomes and impact. On a foundation of senior and leadership roles in the community, and all tiers of government, she has used management degrees and tertiary teaching accreditation to raise awareness around the impacts of intergenerational trauma and the power and strengths of First Nations peoples’ cultures for healing.
Fiona has gained experience and perspectives in education, leadership and business development globally and shares a message of celebration and gratitude for the greatness of ancestors, elders, and the ontology and authority that holds her and her family.
Deputy CEO
Donna Burns is a proud Wiradjuri woman and joins The Healing Foundation with experience as a senior and executive leader and company director. Over many years she has held leadership roles in both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and the broader healthcare and social sectors. Donna’s knowledge of government and healthcare and her skills in change management, continuous improvement and realising strategic goals will underpin her role. Donna started her career as a registered nurse, specialising in Emergency Nursing. She is an authentic person (and leader) who focuses on building capability and collaborating. Donna is the great-grand-daughter of William Ferguson, the legendary Aboriginal activist who was ahead of his time and whose work The Healing Foundation continues today.
