Meet our team
Sarah Ahmed
A trailblazing leader and a devoted advocate whose passions illuminate both the boardroom and the heart.
Meet Sarah Ahmed, the Executive Director of Hepatitis ACT, whose heart beats for advocacy and equity. Sarah’s dedication to uplifting the underprivileged resonates through her unwavering commitment to fostering equality. Armed with a Bachelor of Business Management and a Diploma in Community Services, she stands at the forefront of change, supported by certificates in WHS, emergency management, and leadership.
Sarah’s journey led her to Canberra in 2018 after a decade in the heart of Darwin, NT. Her diverse work experience spans local government, YWCA Canberra, St John Ambulance ACT, and the Australian Government Department of Health. This rich tapestry of roles has equipped her with a broad perspective and an unyielding determination to make a difference.
A mother of two boys, Sarah effortlessly balances her leadership role with her cherished role as a parent. She finds joy in their company, engaging in spirited board games and constructing imaginative Lego creations. Beyond her professional commitments, Sarah’s passions come to life in her kitchen – baking delightful treats, savouring coffee, and delving into the world of true crime documentaries.
Sav Gollapally
With a diverse background with clinical pharmacy, business administration, public health, and program & project management, Sav brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to his role as Programs Manager. Holding a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), an MBA, an MPH, and an Advanced Diploma in Program & Project Management, he combines deep expertise in healthcare with a strategic mindset in business and leadership.
Sav’s career has been shaped by a strong foundation in sales, marketing, communications, and project management. This breadth of experience enables him to bridge the gap between community health and technology, driving innovative solutions that improve outcomes for both individuals and organisations.
Passionate about fostering high-performing teams, Sav is committed to creating environments where cross-functional collaboration thrives. He believes in empowering people to unlock their full potential, with the goal of not only delivering results but also cultivating the next generation of leaders.
Sav believes there is always a better way to approach any challenge—we just haven’t discovered it yet. This mindset drives him to continuously seek out innovative solutions and new opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.
Kareen Tait
An administrative virtuoso, a caring operator, and an inspiration to us all.
Meet Kareen Tait, a true embodiment of versatility and dedication. With an illustrious administrative career spanning 30 years, Kareen seamlessly transitions from one role to another, leaving her mark at every step. Her past includes noteworthy positions such as the Executive Officer of Bosom Buddies ACT, contributions to the NHS in London, and valuable insights at the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
As the Business Support Coordinator at Hepatitis ACT, Kareen brings her unmatched capabilities to the fore. Her mastery extends beyond administrative excellence – she’s also a certified operator with HCVPOCT, conducting finger-prick testing for hepatitis C. This skill allows her to provide opportunistic education to service users at our Needle & Syringe Program, ensuring they receive both care and crucial information.
Kareen’s dynamism knows no bounds. She’s a cornerstone of operational efficiency, seamlessly juggling a plethora of tasks. Her adaptability shines as she confidently assists her co-workers at local events, leaving no stone unturned in creating impactful experiences for our community.
But that’s not all – Kareen’s interests are as diverse as her talents. From her culinary escapades in the kitchen to the soothing embrace of her garden and the artistic touch she lends to quilts, Kareen’s passions enrich her life and inspire those around her.
Smruti Raj
An advocate, an educator, and a source of illumination in the fight against viral hepatitis.
Meet Smruti Raj, a remarkable Community Hepatitis Educator at Hepatitis ACT. Her path in community health began as a dedicated volunteer at Liverwell (Hepatitis Victoria) shortly after completing her Masters in Public Health in 2020. With a heart set on making a difference, Smruti’s story has taken her from Victoria to the Northern Territory, and finally to us at Hepatitis ACT in 2022.
In her current role, Smruti serves as a beacon of knowledge, providing essential education on viral hepatitis. Through engaging sessions held across various facilities in the capital region, she empowers individuals with the information they need to navigate this health challenge. A testament to her expertise, Smruti is a certified point-of-care testing operator under the National HCVPOCT program, proficiently performing finger-stick hep C testing.
Beyond her impactful educational endeavours, Smruti is a familiar face at Canberra events, passionately promoting viral hepatitis awareness alongside her co-workers. Her enthusiasm and dedication shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
In the moments between her commitments, Smruti embraces the joy of discovery. Eager to expand her horizons, she readily takes up new hobbies, a reflection of her vibrant and curious spirit.
Michiko Dowling
Meet Michiko Dowling, our passionate Hepatitis Educator at Hepatitis ACT. Michiko works tirelessly to raise awareness about viral hepatitis by delivering engaging and informative education sessions across the ACT region. Her dedication to improving health literacy is matched only by her enthusiasm for empowering communities.
Beyond her work at Hepatitis ACT, Michiko is a committed health advocate with the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative, supporting initiatives to enhance health outcomes for migrants. She also volunteers as a home tutor, helping individuals from diverse backgrounds integrate into Australian society with confidence. Adding to her impact, Michiko collaborates with a Tokyo-based think tank, tackling pressing issues related to antimicrobial treatment and resistance to improve healthcare solutions worldwide.
At home, Michiko keeps up with her two energetic boys, finding balance in her downtime by relaxing with detective and comedy TV shows. Her ultimate favourite? Watching the iconic Penguin Parade at Phillip Island!
Cáitleen Moloney
A force of compassion, an advocate for change, and a guiding light for those seeking healing and hope.
Meet Cáitleen Moloney, the dedicated Project Officer at Hepatitis ACT who stands at the forefront of our mission to support priority populations affected by viral hepatitis. Armed with qualifications in psychology and a fervent pursuit of a Master’s in Social Work, Cáitleen’s compassion and expertise illuminate the path of those navigating the complexities of hepatitis testing, treatment, and cure.
With an unwavering commitment to promoting equitable healthcare, Cáitleen is an advocate for addressing the social determinants of health and championing the cause of social justice. Her role transcends the ordinary as she diligently plans and executes programs that empower those affected by viral hepatitis. Cáitleen’s genuine dedication is a beacon of hope for our clients, guiding them through their journey towards better health and well-being.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Cáitleen finds solace and inspiration in the great outdoors. Her connection to nature serves as a reminder of the profound resilience she witnesses in the individuals she supports. Additionally, her love for live music events attests to her vibrant spirit and appreciation for the arts.