Celebrating years of service

Sammy D Foundation announces departure of long-standing Chair Brett Duncanson and Director Rosanna Mangarelli

The Sammy D Foundation today announced that after more than a decade of transformative leadership, Chair Brett Duncanson and Director Rosanna Mangarelli will step down from the Board of Directors. 

Brett has served on the Board for 13 years, guiding the Foundation through significant phases of growth and strategic development. Rosanna concludes an impactful 8-year tenure, having brought invaluable expertise and dedication to the Foundation’s mission of educating young people about the impacts of violence. 

During their respective tenures, the Sammy D Foundation has achieved significant milestones. Under their leadership, the Foundation has now educated more than 300,000 young people across South Australia. They have overseen the expansion of core education programs like Impact and Game Changers into more schools and sporting clubs, and strengthened youth mentoring initiatives to provide vital support and positive role models for vulnerable young people. Both have also played a critical role in building the brand and forging strong relationships with corporate partners and the South Australian community to ensure the Foundation’s long-term sustainability. 

Founder Neil Davis expressed his deep gratitude for their years of unwavering support. 

“Brett and Rosanna have been instrumental in building the Sammy D Foundation into the impactful and recognised organisation it is today,” Mr Davis said. 

“When we started this journey, our goal was to ensure no other family had to experience the tragedy we did. 

“Brett’s steadfast leadership as Chair over the last 13 years, and Rosanna’s passionate advocacy over the past 8 years, have helped us reach more young people than we ever thought possible. 

“They leave a legacy that will continue to change lives. 

“While they are stepping down from their formal roles, we know they will remain passionate champions of our work and the Foundation, and we will always be grateful to them for this.” 

Departing Chair Brett Duncanson reflected on his time with the Foundation. 

“It has been an enormous honour to lead the Sammy D Foundation for the past 13 years, knowing our purpose to change so many young lives has and will continue to make a positive difference, ultimately saving lives,” Mr Duncanson said.

“I would like to thank every supporter, volunteer, staff member and fellow Directors for their tireless work in caring for our youth.  

“The Foundation continues to have highly skilled, passionate people driving much-needed education, and I wish them all the very best for the future.” 

The Foundation is well-positioned for its next chapter. The Board remains resolutely committed to its current strategic direction, purpose, and the ongoing delivery of high-impact primary prevention programs. 

Deputy Chairperson Dale Mazzachi reinforced the Board’s focus on a seamless transition and the Foundation’s promising future. 

“Brett and Rosanna have set a benchmark for governance and dedication,” Mr Mazzachi said. 

“While they will be greatly missed, they leave the Foundation in an incredibly strong position. 

“The Board is fully committed to our established strategy and will now commence a robust, merit-based process to fill these board vacancies and appoint a new Chair. 

“As we look ahead, the future of the Sammy D Foundation is exceptionally bright, and we are more driven than ever to achieve our purpose of ending youth violence.” 

Details regarding the recruitment process for the vacant Board positions and the appointment of the new Chair will be available on the Foundation’s website in due course.

– Ends – 

For more information, please contact: Janninne Jackson, CEO, 0439 903 899 or jannine@sammyd.org.au