After 29 years working at Opportunity International Australia, our Indonesia Director Simon Lynch said goodbye to Opportunity in December 2024.

Simon was an integral part of Opportunity's expansion and growth in Asia, first working alongside founder David Bussau in the 1990s to work with our local partners and programs globally. He served as the Asia Regional Director for the Opportunity Global Network, the founder and CEO of Opportunity Timor-Leste, and the first Community Development Director, establishing Health and Women's Safety programs at Opportunity International Australia. 

Many of our loyal supporters have met Simon or travelled with him on insight trips, witnessing firsthand his kindness and dedication to people living in poverty.

"Simon embodies the very DNA of our organisation and will be deeply missed by all," said Mark Daniels, Microfinance and Innovation Director at Opportunity International Australia. "His unwavering commitment to building strong relationships is a testament to the kind of person he is. Simon is passionate about addressing injustice and supporting those with fewer opportunities."

Throughout his time at Opportunity, Simon has been invaluable to our journey and success. We will deeply miss his development expertise, wisdom, and deep understanding of Indonesian culture.

While not quite retiring yet, he is embracing a slower pace of life with his family. We wish him all the very best in this next chapter.