Russell Gibbs Appointed to the Board of Youth Focus

Russell Gibbs Appointed to the Board of Youth Focus

We are proud to share Hawaiian CEO, Russell Gibbs has been appointed to the Board of Directors at Youth Focus.

Russell has been with Hawaiian since 1996 and at the helm of the company since 2000 as Director and Chief Executive Officer. He is also a member of the Wen Family Advisory Council, responsible for overseeing the Wen Australia office that monitors the groups’ global investment and philanthropic contributions.

He has been a long-time supporter of Youth Focus and was previously a Board member from 2004 – 2011, including three years as Deputy Chair. His position on the Youth Focus Board provides a meaningful platform to directly benefit the lives of our young people, so they can thrive and reach their full potential.

His diverse experience in business strategy, property management, philanthropy, and a deep passion for youth mental health will make a valuable contribution to the Youth Focus Board.

Under his leadership, the annual Hawaiian Ride for Youth cycling event was established and to date, has raised more than $31 million for Youth Focus. Hawaiian has been the Naming Rights Sponsor since the inaugural ride in 2000, with all money raised going directly to Youth Focus.

Mr Gibbs said, “I am deeply honoured to be joining the Board of Directors at Youth Focus. This unique position presents me with a meaningful opportunity to help make strategic decisions that will directly benefit the lives of our young people, who are our future.”

“I believe that every young person should have the opportunity to thrive to reach their full potential. Good mental health and well-being are key to this. I am committed to supporting Youth Focus and their important work to ensure our youth have the resources and support they need to succeed now and, in the future,”  he added.

Youth Focus Board Chair Rod Jones says, “Russell has been a leader within some of the most progressive organisations in Western Australia, and has helped these businesses to not only grow, but also to make a positive and profound social impact through the work they do.

“His skills and experience in leadership and strategy will be invaluable on our Board, and he will help Youth Focus make an even greater impact in the lives of young people across Western Australia.”

Youth Focus Chief Executive Officer Derry Simpson says, “We are so pleased to welcome Russell onto the Board of Directors. He has been a champion of youth mental health and wellbeing in our communities, and he has worked alongside Youth Focus for many years to help achieve these outcomes.”

Hawaiian is passionate about supporting and nurturing thriving communities, and have been a long-time partner of Youth Focus, and the naming rights sponsor for the Hawaiian Ride for Youth since the event began nearly 23 years ago.