MEET OUR FOUNDERS
Michael Dunjey
FOUNDER / DIRECTOR
Michael has an eclectic background which was destined to lead him down the road less traveled. As a missionary kid in Pakistan and Bangladesh, the seeds of empathy and social justice were first planted. After graduating as a civil engineer, he completed a second degree in podiatry. Having his own practice allowed him the time and flexibility to train and pursue his passion for high altitude mountain climbing.
Michael is never inclined to avoid a challenge. His attempt at Everest in 2007 left him just missing out on the summit due to frostbite. His next challenge involved his desire to help the most vulnerable and marginalised and so coupled with his natural aptitude for trading, the concept of Ascent Foundation was born.
He believes in seeing people free to live out their calling and seeks to work with those who are on the ground making change happen in the places that need it the most. He approaches generosity by caring for each partner and understanding their story.
He lives in Perth with wife Aimee and his two young children, Eli and Ella.
Raisera McCulloch
CO-FOUNDER
Raisera jumped at the chance to set up the Ascent Foundation and become a Co-Founder. She is passionate about addressing the injustice we see around us locally as well as internationally. Her love for people and her interest in seeing them grow through coaching and leadership development allows her to support others to be catalysts for justice as she seeks to act justly in her own life.
Raisera’s heart is to walk alongside local leaders who are addressing the challenges of living in some of the most vulnerable situations in the world and she is most comfortable when she is working in these communities.
She lives in Perth Western Australia with her husband, Neil who pursues his own special brand of justice in the community, and their energetic and creative daughters, Willow and Harper. Life can be crazy but they wouldn’t have it any other way.
