MEET JUSTIN
Justin doesn’t like talking about it, but the amount of work he has put in and the countless lives he has changed is truly extraordinary. The impact of his work is huge and will continue to be felt for years to come.
Our Founder’s Story
Justin is far from ordinary. From greenkeeping to theology and church ministry, from studying pyschology and working with homeless kids to international aid, from mistakes to change. Justin’s story is truly inspiring. It’s not about the number of lives changed, but the importance of resilience and never losing hope. Change doesn’t happen overnight, it takes patience and persistence, one step at a time.
Born in Melbourne, Justin and his brother spent their youth in Melbourne, Wagga Wagga, and Tweed Heads. Their parents, Ken and Rayna, were always there for them, giving unconditional love and support. Justin felt a calling to help others at a young age, and he never looked back. He studied Theology at Sydney University and Psychology at the University of Melbourne, and took on various roles in churches and organisations. His journey led him to Thailand and he founded One Thousand Villages.
Justin has created countless partnerships with organisations, corporates, churches, universities, schools, and community groups. He developed and led a very successful community enterprise that raised very significant funds for major programs and community work across Thailand and the Mekong region. He led the development of the foundation in Thailand, Myanmar, and also in Australia, including rebranding in 2014 and working in close partnership with International Organisations in Melbourne, Sydney, Bangkok, and Yangon.
Justin and his wife Rattana have three wonderful daughters. In his spare time, Justin enjoys life in rural northeast of Thailand with his wife and family. They love spending time in Melbourne, in rural Victoria. Justin will tell you about football and the Carlton Football Club!