Who We Are

Paul Hodge

Paul comes to AAAPR with a strong desire to connect with people across difference. Struck by the gross inequalities plagueing trade and aid relations, Paul has vowed to learn and share knowledge cross-culturally as a way of nurturing relationships. He sees the work of AAAPR as an exciting and fortuitous pathway to healing wounds and gaining friendships.

Paul was introduced to Jerome (Puppa Joy) at a community 'vigil' to save the Laman Street figs and since then has been amazed at his humble and courageous attitude to life. 

In his spare time, Paul teaches at the University of Newcastle in the Discipline of Geography and Environmental Studies and is currently teaching two courses: ' A Sustainable Society' and 'Environmental Values and Ethics' at Ourimbah campus.

Cate Green

Cate has been a carer for as long as she remembers. Sensitivie to issues of justice, her work experience has included aged care, disability support and special education. Having a seemingly incessant willingness and desire to further expand horizons, Cate is enjoying the African Australian connection - she believes an affiliation with like minded others to develop and contribute to projects for those in needs provides purpose and meaning to the world in a personal, community and global sense. Cate currently volunterrs with African womens groups in self determination food market projects in the Newcastle local area. She is also enjoying being with African children, reading, singing and holding the babies. Cate hopes to complete an english language teaching course this year. Realising there is so much to learn about Africa and its cultural diversity, Cate acknowledges the truly exciting unfolding experience working with the dynamic and diverse group know as Alliance for Peace.

Andrew Spannenberg

Andrew is a legally blind Science graduate with passion for teaching laughter exercises and practising peer counselling. He sings in a community choir and dances in medieval style. He also works as an Administrator in a large company. In AAAPR he maintains the Ethical Statement; proof reads documents on his talking computer; and exercises his understanding of Permaculture - the design of sustainable systems. Andrew joined AAAPR after meeting Jerome at a Refugee Day workshop. He remains fascinated at the diverse members in AAAPR, united in wanting to practically contribute to the World.

Anji Fleming

As a young child Anji spent time in Arnhem land while her parents taught in local schools. Later, her family moved to Armidale, where she spent the rest of her childhood. Anji moved to Newcastle to work with children and for the past five years has been blessed with the opportunity to work with children and families who are refugees from Africa. Anji has found this experience life-enriching in many ways and is inspired by the endurance, strength, courage and spirit of the refugees with whom she works. Learning of the horrors that many African refugees have experienced and the challenges of migrating and assimilating into a very foreign culture has made Anji passionate to assist in any way she can. 

Anji also teaches yoga and studies Art Therapy. She hopes to use her skills to assist refugees healing and adjustment to a new life.