Team
Board
In 2022, the UPO Board was formed, with Meansith and Jen Chhun serving as co-chairpersons. Over the past two years, board members have made significant contributions by providing valuable insights and advice essential to the development, operation, and success of UPO.
Chad and Corrie Irons
Chad Irons, along with his wife Corrie, is currently in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where he has recently transitioned from his role as General Manager of Australian Christian Churches International (ACCI) to become an ACCI Field Worker overseeing multiple projects.
With extensive experience in helping churches and organizations develop strategic plans, sustainable systems, and effective organizational structures, Chad’s expertise is invaluable to UPO.
He also played a key role in developing the project framework for UPO, and we are truly grateful for his contributions.
Ric and Naomi Burrell
For more than a decade Naomi and her husband, Ric, have faithfully served as Senior
Pastors at Strong Nation Church, located in the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains regions,
NSW. They are dedicated to raising up the next generation and seeing each young person
fulfil their God-given potential.
Within their community they contribute to programs aimed at fostering resilience and
strength in both young men and women.
Naomi is passionate about the impact of UPO on the nation of Cambodia and is actively engaged in promoting our work.
Albert and Kimmy Hendricks
Albert Hendricks recently retired after an eminent career spanning over forty years in various facets of the Information Technology (IT) industry. Throughout his career, Albert gained extensive experience and expertise in the field, becoming a respected professional within the industry. In addition to his IT background, he is also a qualified Chartered Accountant (CA), which has equipped him with a keen business acumen, particularly in the financial markets.
Albert’s professional achievements are complemented by his deep commitment to philanthropy. Together with his wife, Kimmy,
Albert co-founded a charitable organisation dedicated to addressing the needs of underprivileged children in Africa, with a particular focus on South Africa.
Their passion for making a positive impact on the lives of these children reflects their strong alignment with the core values of UPO, an organisation that shares their commitment to helping those in need.
Staff
Our team includes three dedicated case workers who support young women at risk of exploitation and trafficking, while also contributing to community projects that strengthen local villages.
Sokunthy, UPO’s first case worker (appointed in 2022), brings extensive experience in social work, basic counselling, and case management. She has supported women who were returned to Cambodia after experiencing trafficking and other forms of exploitation. At UPO, she provides educational opportunities and life skills training to young women and works closely with village leaders, local authorities, and networks with other organisations.
Hannah joined UPO in early 2024, bringing teaching experience and a strong passion for supporting at-risk young women. Mentored by Sokunthy, she is developing her case work skills to further enhance UPO’s impact.
In September 2024, Pipi became UPO’s first case worker in northern Cambodia. Based at the Destiny Rescue office, she helps clients return to school while also providing support to vulnerable young women in the region.
Sokunthy and Hannah
Action Team
The UPO Action Team is a dedicated group of volunteers who contribute their talents to support our charity. They are involved in various roles such as advisory, finance, governance, fundraising, administration, communication and creative projects. Meeting every fortnight, their efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of those we support in Cambodia.
We warmly invite others to join our team as volunteers. If you’re interested in getting involved, please complete the online enquiry form and one of our team members will be in
contact with you.
Spotlight
Spotlight honours someone for their outstanding service and contributions to UPO. It celebrates their dedication and impact on our mission.
Pastor Ric Burrell
We are deeply thankful to Pastor Ric Burrell for his dedicated service and commitment to
UPO through his work on the UPO Board.
Ric’s passion to support, encourage and show dignity to the children and adults of Cambodia, has been an inspiration and a blessing. We appreciate Ps Ric’s contributions as he steps down from the Board and are grateful that he will continue to support UPO in his capacity as Senior Pastor of Strong Nation Church.