We’re thrilled to introduce our 2025 Volunteer Management Committee; Sam, Pumi, Emma, Nathan and Sarah!

This group has been working together since December, working together towards a deeper, more authentic community-led model at the Little BIG House. Our new Committee will act as a vital bridge between the Little BIG House team and the people who make our space so special—you, our local community.

What does the Management Committee do?

Our Committee acts as a voice of our neighbourhood. Made up of passionate local volunteers, this group offers guidance, support, and insight into how we can keep making the Little BIG House a space that truly serves the lcoal community. Their work spans a whole range of important areas, including:

• Reviewing and recommending new programs and events
• Shaping our monthly event calendar – assessing incoming events ideas and volunteers
• Managing volunteer sub-teams and creating social opportunities for volunteers meet connect, share ideas and support one another
• Providing mentorship and leadership to fellow community members looking to start their first event
• Advising on projects, strategy, and ways to amplify our local impact
• Acting as a sounding board for the Foundation Board and staff

The Committee meets monthly, and decisions are made collaboratively—always striving for consensus. It’s a beautiful, values-led process that reflects everything the Little BIG House stands for.

How are Committee members selected?

Members are nominated from within our community—usually people who’ve already shown leadership by running events or getting stuck into the life of the House. Whether through self-nomination, peer nomination or tapped on the shoulder, the final selection is made by the outgoing Committee, Foundation staff, and signed off on by the Board. We aim to create a diverse and dynamic team with a range of lived experiences, skills, and perspectives, while also ensuring each person has the time and passion to make a meaningful contribution.

Introducing the 2024 Summer Hill Management Committee

We’re incredibly excited to work alongside this inspiring group of humans. Their stories, strengths, and shared love of community will shape the next chapter of the Little BIG House—and we’re so lucky to have them on board.

Sam Freeman

After a globe-trotting career that included a decade in India and a stint as an Australian Trade Commissioner, Sam has settled in Sydney’s Inner West with a new focus: championing health and wellbeing in his local community. He’s an entrepreneur, a keen gym-goer, and a regular face at the Little BIG House (and at the office keeping Sarah sane on Fridays), and we’re thrilled to have his global perspective and local heart on the team.

Pumi Naidoo

Pumi has called the Inner West home for over 10 years, but her roots in both big and small communities have given her a natural flair for bringing people together. She first joined the Little BIG House to lead our walking group and has been walking the talk ever since. Whether she’s planning a getaway or chasing the perfect coffee, she’s always connecting people along the way.

Emma Lozina

Originally from England, Emma has lived in the area for over 20 years. Having moved countries means she knows a thing or two about forming connections and building friendships as an adult. A former corporate librarian, she’s now a proud mum to her son and two dogs—and an occasional tidier of our Little BIG House bookshelf! Emma’s commitment to fostering belonging makes her a perfect fit for the Committee.

Nathan Lewin

Marine specialist meets community spirit in Nathan, a talent-spotter with a passion for mental health, resilience, and fantasy fiction (especially when read from a hammock!). As the long-time host of the G-Spot Boardgames Group, Nathan knows a thing or two about building community from the ground up—and he’s ready to help new hosts do the same.

Sarah Ferraina

With more than 20 years in marketing, Sarah is all about helping people and businesses grow with smart, human-centred strategies. She’s a Summer Hill local, a proud parent, and a enthastic cheerleader for her community. Her branding expertise and people-first approach are an exciting addition to the Little BIG House family.

We’re beyond grateful for this crew and everything they’ll bring to the committee. Together, we’ll continue to grow the Little BIG House as a place of connection, care, and community leadership.

Keep an eye out for the team at upcoming events—and don’t be shy about saying hello or sharing your ideas. This space is for all of us, and it just got even more special.