Sydney, March 2013 — Opportunity International Australia has announced the appointment of Suzanna Ardagh to the company's Board of Directors.

An internationally experienced executive whose career commenced with the Department of Foreign Affairs, she has worked in South East Asia, Europe and Latin America, Ms Ardagh's leadership skills are respected in her position as International and WA Division Manager for the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a position she has held since 2007.

Ms Ardagh will take her place on the Opportunity Board alongside a number of other senior business leaders who volunteer their time and expertise to assist the leading development organisation to achieve its mission of providing opportunities to people in poverty to transform their lives.

Experiencing the transformational effects of microfinance in a trip to Manila earlier this year, Ms Ardagh said: "My trip with Opportunity International Australia allowed me to fully appreciate the consequences and profound impact that microfinance loans have on women living in poverty.

"What impressed me most, was how these loans gave women the chance to start their own businesses so that they might feed, clothe, educate, and house their children. It gave them a sense of independence and empowerment. It was truly amazing to see how such a small loan can make such a significant difference."

In addition to this new role, Ms Ardagh is also on the board of the Perth International Arts Festival, the contemporary arts organisation IASKA and Ready to Work - a not-for-profit organisation which helps disadvantaged women enter the workforce.

Commenting on her appointment with Opportunity, Ms Ardagh said: "I am inspired by the work of Opportunity International, particularly as it is so heavily focused on helping women in developing countries. Having lived and worked in such countries throughout my career, I hope that my experience and background will allow me to make a significant contribution to their work in these regions."