A warm welcome to our new Chief Executive

Emily Martinella, Youth Opportunities Chief Executive

Youth Opportunities is delighted to share that Emily Martinella has been appointed as our new Chief Executive.

Emily brings extensive leadership experience across both the not-for-profit and commercial sectors, including work with philanthropic organisations and initiatives, along with a strong background in governance, finance, operations, and organisational strategy.

Just as importantly, Emily already has a strong connection to Youth Opportunities. She has previously held senior executive roles within the organisation and, since 2024, has served as a Board Member of the Marshman Foundation. Through these roles, she has developed a deep commitment to empowering young people facing barriers and disadvantage. 

On joining Youth Opportunities, Emily said:

‘I feel incredibly privileged to lead Youth Opportunities and build on its strong foundations so we can maximise positive outcomes for the young people we serve. Throughout my career, I have guided organisations through growth and change with a strong focus on long-term sustainability and impact. I am committed to ensuring Youth Opportunities remains relevant, impactful, and worthy of the trust placed in us by our donors, supporters, and partners, and I look forward to this next chapter together.’

We hope you will feel both excited by this appointment and reassured that Youth Opportunities’ values, vision, and commitment to young people remain unwavering. Emily shares our belief that every young person deserves opportunity, dignity, and support, and she is keen to build on the strong foundation already in place.

Thank you for the role you play in making this work possible. Your generosity and ongoing support help ensure Youth Opportunities can continue to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for young people.