CERA’s new Head of Philanthropy Maree Apolloni-Dhongdue is inspired by the impact individuals can have through giving.

It’s a power she has witnessed throughout her career, where she has worked with organisations as varied as the Lort Smith Animal Hospital, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Australian National University.

She joined CERA in late 2024 with a personal connection – both of her parents had Type 2 diabetes which carries the risk of vision loss, and her great-grandfather lost his sight from likely the same condition.

“I have seen the effects of vision loss on family members and have an empathy for those dealing with impacts on their sight – it’s one of the reasons that I’m so enthusiastic about being at CERA,” she says.

Maree says being a part of every stage of vision research – from the earliest discovery research in the laboratory to clinical trials of treatments – is inspiring.

“CERA is a unique research organisation where clinicians, researchers and academics work side by side,” she explains.

“There is the rigour of academia alongside the nimbleness of a not-for profit, driven by a network of supporters who are passionate about transforming the lives of people living with vision loss around the world.”

Throughout 2025 she’ll be sharing opportunities for people to transform the lives of people living with vision loss and blindness.

“I’m looking forward to meeting all the people in the CERA community who donate – from regular donors, supporters of individual campaigns and bequestors – and sharing the magnitude of their impact on the lives of people with low visionby allowing us to pursue cutting-edge research.”

To get in touch with Maree and find out more about the many ways you can have an impact, email mapolloni-dhongdue@cera.org.au or call 1300 737 757.