Newsletter Writer and Editor

Shyla has recently moved to Hanoi from Canada. She spent the past 5 years working as a school intervention worker and has spent time in the Canadian arctic working with youth-at-risk. She is passionate about creating environments that are inclusive to anyone who enters them.  She has a BA in Anthropology and has a goal of getting her MA in Social Work. Shyla is extremely thankful and excited to be a part of SENIA and hopes to help create more inclusive spaces. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and exploring all that nature has to offer.

Events Coordinator (HCMC)

Melanie works at RMIT Vietnam as an Equitable Learning Services Advisor, Wellbeing - Office of the Executive Dean. Our team provides support and equal opportunities for students with a disability, long-term illness, and/or mental health conditions and primary carers of individuals with a disability. I have more than 25 years of experience as a lecturer, learning & development professional, communications specialist, and multi-media producer/ content creator. I have worked in companies that have given me experience working in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand, and Sweden. I have called Vietnam my second home since 2008."

HCMC Community Rep (English)

Nga joined a unique bilingual international school in 2011 as a secondary Mathematics teacher, bringing four years of invaluable experience from another international school in HCMC. During her tenure, she also held a leadership role as an assistant Headteacher for two years. In 2013, Nga expanded her teaching repertoire to include the primary education curriculum, with a strong focus on promoting bilingualism in the classroom. Her aim was to prepare primary students for the transition to learning various subjects in English during their secondary education. Nga's teaching style thrives on a curriculum that fosters creativity and encourages active student engagement. In recognition of her dedication and expertise, Nga was appointed as the Learning Support coordinator in 2022. In this vital role, she oversees the department and ensures that students with special needs receive the necessary support for academic success.

Outside of work, Nga enjoys music, singing, and attending concerts; reading and cooking with her daughter. Nga is passionate about exploring new places, social activities, and traveling with family and friends. She volunteers for non-government organizations, supporting underprivileged individuals. Nga strongly believes in giving back and actively engages in initiatives for positive contributions to society.

Hanoi Community Rep (Japanese)

Originally from Japan. Atsuko lives in Hanoi with her husband and a son. She has been working in various educational settings around the globe. Currently, she serves the Japanese community in Hanoi as a family consultant and a therapist. Her passion is to raise awareness about neurodiversity and to bring support and empowerment to families and educators in the community. Atsuko obtained several degrees and certificates while raising her neurodivergent child. Her educational background includes a BA in Middle/High School Science Education/Environmental Conservation Education from the University of Northern Iowa, USA, and an MA in International Education from the University of Sussex, UK. She is also a certified child developmental supporter and Social Skill Training Specialist, Safe and Sound Protocol™ , and DIRFloortime®Therapist, and Common Sense Parent® (CSP) trainer.

Vietnamese Teacher representative at St. Mary's International School

Anh Vu was born and raised in Hanoi, Vietnam and is currently working as ES counselor at St. Mary’s International School. She holds a degree in School Psychology from Hanoi National University of Education and has worked as both a school psychologist and teacher at multiple school settings. Her passion is to spread kindness and compassion within the community, and to help local teachers and practitioners access the resources they need. She is especially interested in neurodiversity and how to create more safe and inclusive spaces for children. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, photography, and writing about the small joys of working with kids.

Application Manager

Inger has 10+ years experience working with Digital Media as a Web Consultant/Application Manager. She has two daughters and has been living in Hanoi from 2019-2023 and now lives in Singapore. Inger is passionate about learning more about neurodiversity and is excited to volunteer her technical expertise to support a great organisation. Inger enjoys traveling, hiking and running.