Ian J Hosking Richards JP – Chair
Ian is the founding Chair of The Solomon Foundation. He holds the rank of Commander in the Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem and is also well known in the Australian business community through his involvement in the property and finance sectors, and as CEO of Rocket Property Group.‘My aim is to raise the profile of Solomon Islands in Australia, both from a diplomatic perspective as well as with community initiatives that bring our two peoples together on a cultural and humanitarian journey’.
His Excellency Reverend Sir David Tiva Kapu GCMG
Sir David is the King's viceregal representative in Solomon Islands, and officially took office on 7 July 2024. Originally from Buena Vista Islands in Gela, Central Islands Province, Sir David is a former Anglican priest. The Solomon Foundation is honoured to have the support of such an illustrious patron.
Lady Primrose Potter AC – Patron-in Chief
Lady Potter is a well known Australian philanthropist who has been a strong supporter of The Solomon Foundation from the outset. Her philanthropic interests go far beyond her well-known and documented support for the arts, to embrace many other worthy causes, including child welfare and social development issues. Her warmth and humanity, as well as her expertise in fundraising and administration, make her a very valued and loved member of the team.‘She has enormous curiosity and great enthusiasm. She’s amazing’ – Countess Primrose Krasicki, daughter.
Sir Frank Kabui, GCMG, CSI, OBE
Sir Frank served Her Majesty The Queen as Governor General of Solomon Islands from 7 July 2009 to 7 July 2019. He is a former High Court Judge and Attorney General. Sir Frank and his wife late Lady Grace are well known for their support of humanitarian projects, and we welcome Sir Frank’s involvement with The Solomon Foundation.
Peter Doherty, AC FRS FMedSci
Peter is a well known Australian veterinary surgeon and researcher in the field of medicine. He received the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research in 1995, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly with Rolf M. Zinkernagel in 1996 and was named Australian of the Year in 1997. He is also a National Trust Australian Living Treasure. In 2009 as part of the Q150 celebrations, Doherty's immune system research was announced as one of the Q150 Icons of Queensland for its role as an iconic "innovation and invention". We are pleased to welcome Peter as our most recent patron.
Manogar Kuppusamy – Board Member
Mano is a highly successful property investor, and inaugural board member. After graduating from business school Mano spent many years working for IBM and American Express before taking a step back from full time employment to focus on managing his private investment portfolio. His empathy for those less fortunate, combined with his considerable business acumen and common-sense approach is a huge asset to the board of The Solomon Foundation.‘ Those of us who find ourselves in a position where we can help the less fortunate, either financially or by giving our time, can make a huge and lasting impact. Even the smallest of gestures can lead to big outcomes for both parties’.
Dr John Hue - Senior Ophthalmologist
Dr Hue is a senior Ophthalmologist in the Solomon Islands who specializes in the treatment of diabetes. He has previously held numerous positions at The Ministry of Health & Medical Services, including Medical Superintendent at The National Referral Hospital in Honiara as well as Acting Chief Executive Officer. Dr Hue joined the Board in 2023 but has been a key figure at The Solomon Foundation since its inception
Vale Sir David Vunagi
Sir David, who served his country as Governor General from July 2019 until July 2024 was Vice Regal Patron of The Solomon Foundation during that time. Originally from Isabel province, late Sir David was a former Archbishop of Melanesia. Sir David was a strong supporter of The Solomon Foundation and our thoughts and prayers go out to Lady Vunagi and family.