The
Board.
Djinda Foundation was founded by Australian nationals, Cathie and Jeremy Weir.
Our founder’s decided to establish the foundation following the diagnosis of their youngest daughter with Type 1 Diabetes when she was eight years old.
It has since been an ambition of theirs to provide support and access to resources with a sense of inclusivity and belonging for youth suffering from chronic illnesses, particularly Type 1 Diabetes and mental health. Their personal passion extends to the oceans and marine life. This, together with an awareness of the lack of philanthropic funding towards SDG 14 (as little as 1%), also made ocean conservation a key motivator and focus for the Foundation.
Jeremy Weir
President and cofounder
Cathie Weir
Vice-president and cofounder
Jean-Marie Formigé
Treasurer
The Team.
Samantha Vassilev – Director
Samantha Vassilev, is the Director of Djinda Foundation, she joined the family foundation upon its establishment in Geneva, Switzerland, in November 2022.
With a diverse background across international agencies and startups, Samantha eagerly seized the opportunity to dive into philanthropy alongside her family. Proudly taking on the management of the foundation alongside the board, with a personal connection for the foundation’s causes advocating for youth wellbeing specifically in mental health and Type One Diabetes as well as a growing respect and passion for ocean conservation.
Based in Singapore and holding British, Australian, and Swiss nationalities, Samantha holds a BA in International Events Management from the European Business School of London. In June 2023, Samantha completed a Diploma in Advanced Studies in Strategic and Operational Philanthropy from the University of Geneva. Samantha’s dedication shines through her work, blending innovation and empathy to drive global change in the future.
Bayard SA – Auditing and administration
Bayard SA, is a Geneva-based private entrepreneurs office and family office providing services to support and manage the foundation.
This includes managing the auditing and administration of the foundation whilst supporting Samantha in the management of the foundation.
