News

We are proud to celebrate our history of inclusive leadership at MWF. Pat Burke, co-founder with Gillian Hund, has resigned her role as Chair. Pat will remain on the Board providing continuity and depth of experience. 

Pat has offered leadership at every step of MWF’s development and growth as a giving circle and charity. A generous mentor and visionary, Pat is especially pleased to be creating space for those who will lead MWF into the future.  

It is a great pleasure to offer warm congratulations to Leonie Boxtel, who succeeds Pat as the new Chair!  Leonie joined the Board in September 2024, immediately offering her warmth, strategic mindset and depth of leadership within the philanthropic sector.  

Leonie is Melbourne born and bred, yet her perspective is anything but monocular. A love affair with Japan has impacted all areas of her life. She is bilingual, has family in Japan and visits often. Her initial Arts degree in Economics and Japanese led to employment and further education related to Asia, Leadership and Philanthropy. She has worked in the University sector to establish philanthropic campaigns, at a time when the tradition of giving to these important social institutions in Australia was merely emergent. 

Leonie has served on the Boards of the International Women’s Development Agency and Melbourne City Mission. She is a proponent for what the nonprofit sector does for society. Leonie is currently Executive Officer with The Bowness Family Foundation. 

Leonie feels privileged to follow in Pat’s and Gillian’s footsteps, grateful for a conscious process of change and ongoing support.  

Speaking of Pat’s legacy, Leonie points to her ‘phenomenal capacity to understand people, create and embed culture’.  Leonie’s passion is infectious as she shares her dream to ‘harvest seeds planted by the talented women who have contributed to MWF and capitalise on the enormous opportunity to amplify the excellent work done in our community to support women’.