Glenn is the Founder and Chair of Canberra-based Aspen Medical, one of the world’s leading providers of healthcare solutions. Prior to building and leading businesses in the private sector, Glenn had a distinguished career in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). His service saw him undertake a range of tasks from training to test flying and engineering to logistics support for Army aircraft. Glenn is a graduate of the University of New South Wales and the International Test Pilots School in the UK. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Project Management, the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of Engineers Australia. Glenn is an advocate of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and was a founding Board member of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Glenn’s achievements were acknowledged when he won ACT Australian of the Year 2015, and made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2017 for his work with the disability community, and his community to businesses having a Social Purpose. He has been Chair of Canberra Business Council, served on the National Capital Authority, Chair of the Federal Government’s Australian-ASEAN Council, and a Council Member for the Australian War Memorial. Glenn’s son, Ehren who has Down Syndrome, drives his passion for the Disability Community not only in the ACT but throughout Australia where Glenn strives to make a difference in the lives of people living with an intellectual disability.
David worked as a HR manager in a number of corporate and line management work environments including Customs and Border Protection. With a Masters of Education, Bachelor of Teaching, Diploma in Risk Management and extensive work experience in facilitating learning, coaching, developing strategic directions he brings a depth of knowledge and understanding to the Board. David’s experience in the volunteer space includes being a current member of the Positive Alternatives for Planning Alternative Tomorrow’s with Hope (PATH) which assists families with planning options for people with disabilities and their families, a Member of the Abbeyfield working group (2008-2012) and various positions including general member, vice chair and Chair on the Special Olympics ACT Committee from 2006 to 2014. As a parent of a son with an intellectual disability David combines his personal experiences with his qualifications to ensure the strategic direction of the project remains focused and relevant to all stakeholders.
As Business Development Manager for NEX Building Group, Jason Bisa secures land and development opportunities, leveraging extensive construction and real estate networks to execute acquisitions that align with strategic goals and enhance market share. Formerly the Regional General Manager of McDonald Jones Homes, Canberra, Jason managed a standalone operation, growing the business into the region’s leading residential builder. Under his leadership, McDonald Jones was recognised as the largest builder by the Housing Industry Association, winning Major Professional Builder of the Year in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Jason’s background includes development management and extensive experience across the property lifecycle. He established Masterton Homes in Canberra, entering the volume housing market and gaining greenfield development exposure. As Development Manager at PrimeSpace Property Investment, he helped establish an ASIC-registered unlisted property fund. Jason began his career as a business process engineer at Accenture, working on corporate strategy, process redesign, systems implementation, and resource change management for public and private clients. Jason’s expertise supports Project Independence with property-centric opportunities, leveraging his private and public professional networks.
Ric Small is a highly experienced architect and community advocate. Ric is the founding director and co-partner of the SQC Group, a Canberra based design consultancy with many local and interstate commissions. The practice specialises in architecture, interior design, disability access and heritage. Ric’s heart for community has influenced a large portfolio of projects in the Learning, Workplace, Community and Living sectors. Ric’s core strengths lie in his leadership abilities and industry experience to deliver the best project outcomes. In addition, he is known for his empathy and ability to understand how to gain the best from his team, consultants and resources. Ric is a graduate of the University of Canberra and fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects. Ric has strong interests in community organisations, having previously been a board member of Emmaus Christian School and currently serving on the boards of Mosaic Baptist Church and Project independence. He advocates for sound governance and strong community contributions by each organisation. Within Ric’s family, he has grandchildren in the neuro-diverse spectrum. He contributes his professional experience and personal understanding to assist people living with an intellectual disability to increase their independence, including the opportunity to achieve home ownership. Ric has served on the board of Project Independence since 2019.
Joy served as the MLA for Brindabella from 2008–2024, holding ministerial portfolios including Housing and Disability. She brings extensive governance, health, and public sector leadership experience. Her early support of Project Independence, including helping secure our first Harrison property, has been instrumental to the organisation’s growth. With her strategic insight, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to strengthening community outcomes, Joy plays a key role in guiding Project Independence as it continues to expand its impact.
