GEORGE ELKHAIR, DEPUTY CHAIR
“We continually reflect on the voices and experiences of young Tasmanians to guide our governance and strategic thinking.”
“It’s tragic that young people have to navigate life without the basic security of a safe place to call home.”
Our Board members bring expertise and compassion to the mission of ending youth homelessness in Tasmania.
We’re highlighting the leaders shaping this important work.
George Elkhair, is one of those leaders, whose global business experience and deep community commitment are helping guide Home Base into the future.
With more than 30 years of experience in international commerce, corporate governance and professional accountancy, he brings a wealth of expertise to the Home Base Board.
As a Fellow of CPA Australia and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, he has served across sectors including business, property development, logistics, and community organisations.
George says his motivation for joining the Board comes from a strong personal belief in justice, dignity and opportunity for all.
“I have been drawn to Home Base because of its deep, grassroots connection to the community and its commitment to wraparound support for vulnerable young Tasmanians,” he said.
“Personally, I know how stable housing is a critical foundation for social participation, education, family togetherness and employment.
It’s tragic that young people should have to navigate life without the basic security of a safe place to call home.”
We continually reflect on the voices and experiences of young Tasmanians to guide our governance and strategic thinking.
Home Base is a voice for the voiceless and is wonderfully inclusive of young people in decisions that affect their lives and is a constant calm wind in times of turbulence.
For George, what sets Home Base apart is its holistic, youth-focused approach.
“Home Base doesn’t just provide shelter, it offers pathways to wellbeing, education, employment and connection,” he said.
“As a Board, we ensure every decision we make – from capital investment to program development – is focused on what is best for the young people we serve.
George said visiting Home Base’s youth shelters, Mara House and Colville Place, was a particularly powerful experience.
“Hearing directly how stable housing and consistent support changed life trajectories for young people was a reminder that while governance happens at the strategic level, the outcomes are deeply personal and life changing.”
George said he has been inspired by the culture of humility and commitment that defines Home Base.
“The leadership team is both visionary and grounded – they know the landscape of youth homelessness intimately and they’re not afraid to think big while acting with care.”
hear more from GEORGE
Our friend Fergus, recently spoke to the Board about their experiences and work on the Home Base Board. Find out more in the short video below.