Our Team
Debbie specialises in non-profit administration and has a strong track record in teaching and education research. Prior to establishing Octava Foundation, she has held roles in administration, advocacy, and research at various Asia-Pacific organisations that focus on early childhood development as well as philanthropy.
Debbie is driven by a desire to empower society’s young and most vulnerable, and seeks to help these individuals acquire the best possible start in life. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Monash University as well as a Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) degree from The University of Melbourne and Master of Science in International and Comparative Education degree from the Institute of International Education at Stockholms Universitet.
During her time off, Debbie likes to sweat it out in a fitness class, hunt down the best eats, and explore all the treasures Planet Earth has to offer.
Esther Heng (Programme Manager)
Esther has carved out a career in Singapore’s non-profit and philanthropy sector, holding roles that are focused on fund-raising strategies involving high net-worth individuals and corporate donors. She also has carried out various programme evaluations of charities in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Esther values her role at Octava Foundation, where she can support her donors in their philanthropic efforts as well as gain a macro-perspective of the region’s non-profit landscape.
Esther graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia. In her free time, Esther enjoys travelling and learning about different cultures.
Sidney Oon (Programme Associate)
Sidney has held roles in a headhunting and private equity firm where he specialised in human resources and business development. He has experience in hiring and recruiting candidates for roles in the banking and F&B industry, and was involved in business development projects for various F&B concepts.
Sidney has an interest in contributing back to society. Through Octava Foundation, he finds that he is able to assist individuals to achieve the best care and welfare that they need. Sidney is particularly interested in mental health issues.
In his free time, Sidney enjoys lifestyle activities like running, travelling and has a soft spot for animals.