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Meet the AMAZING team behind
Thrift For Good

This incredible team (and many more) make all of the magic happen!

Christophe Castagnera

Chair (Voluntary Board Member)

Christophe has been actively involved with charitable organisations since his student days and has maintained his support for children and environmental causes ever since. As our Chairman he brings decades of expertise in governance, strategy, innovation and growth to help drive the team’s critical mission.

Adrian Lee

Director of Retail (Voluntary Board Member)

Retail addict with 30+ years growing stores, brands, and big ideas across the Middle East. Adrian brings a practical, people-first approach to growing retail in a way that makes both commercial and social sense. Since 2024, Adrian has been working more closely with charitable organizations, drawn to the impact they create. At Thrift For Good, Adrian is proud to support a mission that turns retail into something truly meaningful for the planet and for children’s futures.

Lucy Chow

Director of Fundraising & Partnerships (Voluntary Board Member)

Lucy Chow is a Dubai-based tech investor, author, and advocate for female entrepreneurship. She served formerly as Secretary General of the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) Global Women Leaders Committee and was a General Partner at the WBAF Angel Investment Fund. With extensive experience supporting early-stage, impact-driven ventures, Lucy works at the intersection of capital, innovation, and social impact. She advises founders, boards, corporates, and global institutions on navigating change and unlocking growth in a rapidly evolving world. Lucy is the author of Women of the Future: UAE and Changing the Game, and a sought-after speaker at leading international forums, including Davos, LEAP, and South Summit. She brings to Thrift for Good a deep understanding of fundraising, strategic partnerships, and scaling mission-driven organisations for long-term impact.

Chris Jennings

Director of People & Community Engagement (Voluntary Board Member)

With over 20 years of executive HR leadership experience across the Middle East and international markets, Chris brings a wealth of strategic, commercial, and people-focused expertise to Thrift for Good. As the founder of WorkWell HR, he has helped organisations strengthen leadership, build high-performing cultures, and navigate growth and transformation with clarity and purpose. Chris’ experience leading organisational change and culture development in complex, fast-paced environments gives him a strong understanding of how to build sustainable, values-led organisations. His commercially minded and pragmatic approach will support Thrift for Good as it continues to grow its impact, strengthen its people and culture, and deliver meaningful social and environmental change. A Chartered Fellow of the CIPD with undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in Human Resource Management, Chris is passionate about ethical leadership, community impact, and helping purpose-driven organisations thrive.

Stephanie Asgill

Director of Sustainability (Voluntary Board Member)

Stephanie is a sustainability leader with 20 years of experience across some of the world's most complex environments. Her career has taken her from Nigeria and Egypt to Oman, Turkey, Iraq and the UAE, a global journey driven by a consistent passion for impact. Across every role and every country, she has been guided by a conviction that sustainability, done well, changes lives. Most recently, Stephanie served as Group Head of Sustainability at Dubai Holding, where she built the sustainability function from the ground up and defined the company's Net Zero 2050 pathway. She embedded ESG into executive decision-making and remuneration, led the organisation's engagement at COP28 as a Major Sponsor, and delivered award-winning philanthropy programmes supporting communities across the UAE. During this time she also founded the UAE Women in Climate Community, bringing together women across the region to accelerate climate action. Beyond her professional life, Stephanie is an avid traveller, horse rider and nature lover. She has completed an expedition to Antarctica, witnessing first-hand the impact of climate change on our environment, an experience that deepened her resolve to make her work count. She holds a BA and MA in Geography from the University of Oxford and an MSc with Distinction in International Development from the University of Edinburgh, and was named one of the UAE's Most Influential Sustainability Leaders by the Khaleej Times in 2025.

Howell Perez

Treasurer (Voluntary Board Member)

An audit, governance, and risk leader with over two decades of experience across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and North Africa. As Board Treasurer, Howell brings practical financial oversight, strong governance, and a careful eye for risks that can affect an organisation’s mission. He also understands the human side of giving. Howell was once a beneficiary of the generosity of others, an experience that helped change the direction of his life. That is why he sees financial stewardship not only as a duty to protect resources, but also as a responsibility to help generosity reach the people who need it most.

Laura Waind

Secretary (Voluntary Board Member)

Over the last 17 years, Laura has worked within three built environment professional bodies in London and Dubai, all of which promote sustainability, ethics, and best practice. She has extensive experience managing Board operations and coordination, at both national and regional levels. An avid supporter of all kinds of homegrown and local organisations, Laura also loves rehoming preloved and unique finds. Appointed as Board Secretary in May 2026, she combines her professional expertise with her dedication to sustainable fashion and conscious consumerism.

Jennifer Sault

Founder & Managing Director

Thrift for Good brings together everything that Jen loves. She has her Masters in Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy and started working with charitable organisations in 2003. Zero waste and plant based, Jen lives true to her values and believes every small action makes a difference; she is passionate about the environment as well as raising funds for children’s projects and is delighted to be the rallying force behind Thrift For Good.

Jade Povey

Community Engagement Manager

Jade is an outdoor enthusiast and animal lover; hence, taking care of and protecting the environment is very important to her. As the Community Engagement Manager at Thrift for Good, she is proud to be a part of a movement to educate and bring about sustainable changes in reducing, reusing, and recycling textiles responsibly.

Aina Colline Medina

Marketing Manager

Since 2016, Aina has been immersed in the world of television, crafting segments and making stories as a Segment Producer and Writer. Now, She's on a mission to apply her knowledge and skills for a greater purpose. Her journey in giving back began at the age of 12, driven by a deep-seated passion for making a difference in the lives of children. As she continues to pursue her professional endeavors, She finds immense fulfillment in dedicating her time to various charitable causes, particularly those aimed at supporting kids. Additionally, She takes pride in her role as a choir master and youth leader in her community in the Philippines.

Marcela Petrzel

Operations Coordinator

Marcela recently moved to Dubai and brings with her a background in Human Resource Management and Administration, paired with a deep passion for charity work. She is excited to apply her organizational and people skills to support Thrift for Good’s mission in both behind-the-scenes operations and customer-facing roles. With a heart for service and a strong belief that every child deserves a safe and hopeful future, Marcela is committed to making a positive impact through every task, big or small. Whether supporting HR processes or helping in-store, she finds joy in being part of a community that gives back. “If I could, I’d save every child in the world.”

JM Villafuerte

Marketing Coordinator

JM views entering a new environment not only as a challenge but as an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the team. With a dedication to promoting sustainability and supporting children's welfare through fashion retail as a driving force, he takes this responsibility seriously and is ready to make an impact. Backed by 7 years of experience in media, specializing in brand essence and identity, he firmly believes that a strong and effective marketing strategy is crucial to a brand's success. Fueled by a deep passion for creativity and storytelling, JM has embraced his purpose through his engagement with Thrift For Good.

Madeline Castagnera - Bond

Creative Coordinator

With a background in fashion design and sustainability, and a Master’s degree in Fashion Design from Central Saint Martins in London, Madeline has worked as a designer for several labels across Italy and London before launching her own sustainable bridal label. Passionate about thrifting and preloved fashion, she joined Thrift for Good as a weekly volunteer at the Palm Jumeirah store in 2023 and is now part of the team, bringing her creativity and expertise to upcycling and sustainable initiatives.

Fikirte Solomon Lulu

Accountant

Dedicated accountant with a strong passion for numbers and problem-solving, committed to helping businesses stay organized and financially healthy. With experience in managing accounts, preparing financial reports, and ensuring compliance, she will support Thrift for Good in maintaining accurate records and making informed, strategic decisions. She enjoy analyzing financial data, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing efficient processes that save time and reduce errors. Fikirte take pride in attention to detail, reliability, and ability to meet deadlines in fast-paced environments. Building trust with clients and team members is at the core of her work, and she strive to provide clear communication and dependable support at all times. Her goal is to add value to Thrift for Good by promoting financial clarity, stability, and long-term growth.

Bronwyn Byrnes

Luxury Coordinator

Bron, also known as BB, has called Dubai home for nearly three decades, embracing a life rooted in purpose, compassion, and creativity. In addition to her role at Thrift For Good, Bron is an active comedian and actor, bringing humor and lightness to everything she does, including her work with the charity. She believes that laughter and kindness go hand in hand, fostering a positive and uplifting environment. With a firm belief that everyone has something to offer—whether time, effort, or resources—Bron has dedicated the past three years to volunteering with Thrift For Good. Now serving as the Luxury Coordinator, Bron passionately supports the charity’s mission, ensuring high-quality donations are put to good use for those in need. As a proud mother, Bron is deeply committed to helping children, both through her personal life and her work with Thrift For Good. She believes the world is abundant and that we all have enough to share. Through her role, she continues to make a meaningful impact, creating opportunities for those less fortunate.

Sanjay Gurung

Inventory Operations Coordinator

Sanjay joined the Thrift for Good team in 2022, and ever since, he's been deeply engaged in our mission of supporting children in need. His commitment to our cause is evident in his dedication to his work, where he finds fulfillment in making a positive impact. He also takes pleasure in assisting volunteers and collaborating with the entire team. With his careful attention to detail and passion for excellence, Sanjay consistently strives to elevate our organization, ensuring that every aspect runs smoothly and efficiently.

Sameera Magar

Store Manager

Sameera is a huge fashion lover! She has been in the UAE for 5 years now and joined Thrift for Good in early 2022. She joined not just for her love for fashion but also because of the beautiful cause it represents. For her, working in TFG is not just about retail; it's about helping kids around the world. Being sustainable and saving our Mother Nature is another reason she loves this organization. Sameera is a person who loves challenges and is always seeking something new. More about her: She is a fun-loving person with a passion for learning different languages. She is so happy to be a part of this beautiful organization!

Arabelle Estrada

Store Manager

With over 14 years of retail experience in the Gulf, Arabelle brings a deep passion for fashion and operational excellence to Thrift for Good. Her journey began with a love for styling and evolved into a career dedicated to leading successful retail teams. At Thrift for Good, Arabelle oversees multiple store branches, ensuring smooth daily operations, a seamless customer experience, and empowered teams. She was drawn to TFG by its values and vision, giving back to the community through fashion. “Being part of a purpose-driven team that gives back is incredibly fulfilling. When you pursue what you love, you naturally inspire and lead by example.”

Mary Grace Villafania

Store Manager

With a strong background in HR and solid experience in retail management, I am deeply passionate about everything I do. I love working with people from all walks of life, embracing challenges as opportunities to grow and learn. Fashion has always been a passion of mine, but what truly drives me is making a difference. Being part of Thrift for Good allows me to live out this purpose. Giving back, creating impact, and working towards a better world. I believe in teamwork, in lifting each other up, and in finding ways for everyone to contribute to success. I am incredibly proud to be part of this mission, knowing that together, we are making a real difference in the lives of those we serve and the community we call home.

Nabin Rakal

Store Manager

Retail professional with 11 years of experience. Been here in UAE since 2013, Excited to be part of the Thrift for Good and engage in a mission to make a difference for the children around the world. Passionate about hiking and bookworm. Believes in “Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Maria Imelda Dela Cruz

Team Leader

Maria is often called by her friends as Imee. She is a trustworthy and passionate team leader. A Filipina who enjoys doing charity work in her spare time. She has an eye for bargain and is looking forward to helping her customers with an eye for style. Her quote to live by is "to appreciate little things and see goodness in every person".

Rachel Bate

Team Leader

Rachel affectionately known as TK, is a passionate individual with a background in journalism and mass communication. She has gained valuable experience in retail and fashion, which has shaped her understanding of style, sustainability, and community impact. Having grown up wearing thrifted clothing,she values the impact of reusing and repurposing items. She loves contributing to a cause that reduces waste while supporting children in need worldwide. Inspired by her son, TK believes that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Charles Gloria Treasure Funmi

Team Leader

Her mother inspired her as an example for helping others. She realized that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. This passion for helping others has stayed with her throughout her life, and it is one of the reasons why she joined Thrift for Good. Every day, she gets to help people find stylish and affordable clothing, and she knows that she is also making a difference in the lives of people in need. She is proud to be a part of the Thrift for Good team.

Iyare Uwagboe

Team Leader

He is an embodiment of sustainable excellence! a relentless advocate for charity, and a true champion of positive change, With an unyielding commitment to environmental and product recycling solutions, and an unwavering passion for making a difference. He believes in living a life of purpose and giving back to the community and the world at large. He is driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and a deep respect for the environment. His passion for charitable work and sustainable living reflects his commitment to creating a more just and equitable world, seeking to minimize his environmental footprint and inspire others to do the same.

Yashavi Lama

Team Leader

Yashavi joined Thrift for Good with a passion for retail and sustainable, pre-loved fashion. As a Team Leader, she manages daily store operations, ensures excellent customer service, and leads a diverse team of volunteers across different age groups. She finds great joy in working with volunteers, fostering a positive and inclusive environment, and bringing people together. Committed to zero-waste practices, she is proud to support initiatives that improve the lives of children while contributing to meaningful community impact.

Ribeth Quilitano

Team Leader

With extensive experience in retail, specialising in operations, customer service, merchandising, and team leadership, Ribeth is passionate about creating positive experiences for both customers and colleagues. She cares deeply about the atmosphere of a space and how it shapes the way people feel, believing that good energy is contagious. Sustainability has always been important to her, long before joining Thrift for Good. Whether through donating or reselling items she no longer uses, she has always believed in giving things a second life and reducing waste in meaningful ways. Being part of Thrift for Good allows her to combine her love for retail with a greater purpose. She finds it inspiring to be part of an organisation that gives back, supports important causes, and creates real impact through everyday work. She is proud to be part of a team that proves retail can do more than serve customers — it can help change lives and make a difference in the community. Outside of work, Ribeth is a big dog lover who hopes to adopt one someday, and she is always happiest with good upbeat music playing in the background.

Ayah Ramatou

Team Leader

Ayah Ramatou is a Team Leader at Thrift for Good, bringing passion, positivity, and purpose to her role every day. Driven by a love for connecting with people in the community, she believes in turning meaningful interactions into real impact. She enjoys building warm, collaborative teams and creating an environment where both customers and colleagues feel welcomed and supported. Deeply inspired by Thrift for Good’s mission, Ayah believes that every child deserves hope, opportunity, and the chance to thrive, making her proud to be part of an organisation creating positive change around the world.

Noemi Sequijor

Team Leader

Noemi believes purpose is found when what she does every day reflects what she cares about deeply. Her years in customer service, retail, and leadership have taught her that skills build a career, but compassion makes work meaningful. She values people, connection, and the small moments when she can make someone's day or even someone's life a little better. She grew up in a big family surrounded by children. Their innocence, laughter, and warmth shaped her love for them. That's why Thrift For Good's mission feels so close to her heart. She's grateful to be part of something that turns kindness into real opportunities and creates lasting impact.

Laura Orlando

Team Leader / Part Time

Laura is a photographer who has been in Dubai for the last 5 years. Helping those who need it the most is something she learned very early, thanks to her family. She is from Argentina and loves music and sweets; you will probably see her around with her mate! She knew about Thrift for Good back in 2021 thanks to a friend, and she fell in love with the project. Since then, she has tried her level best to be present and help out to make a difference in the world and to the kids.
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