Our People

The Australasian Youth Scholarship is guided by a dedicated group of professionals who have come together through a shared belief in the transformative power of classical ballet and youth development.

Collectively, they bring a broad depth of experience across professional ballet performance, elite training and education, arts leadership, governance, finance, marketing and community engagement. Their backgrounds span national and international institutions, not-for-profit organisations, creative industries and professional services, united by a commitment to excellence, integrity and opportunity.

Each member contributes unique expertise and lived experience, offering thoughtful leadership, mentorship and strategic guidance to support the next generation of dancers. Together, they form a collaborative and purpose-driven group focused on expanding access to high-quality ballet training, fostering artistic growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Australasian Youth Scholarship.

Find out more about each member of our board, below.

Five male ballet dancers practicing in a spacious dance studio with large windows and mirrored walls, wearing white t-shirts and gray leggings, performing ballet poses with arms raised and pointed toes.
Person working on a laptop with a notebook and a glass of water on a white table.

Leanne Curtis
Founder & Director

Leanne Curtis is the Founder and Director of the Australasian Youth Scholarship, bringing extensive experience across strategic leadership, event management and youth development. With a background spanning technology, governance and international event delivery, she is deeply committed to creating accessible pathways for young dancers to pursue excellence.

Leanne’s leadership is driven by a passion for opportunity, mentorship and inclusion. She oversees the organisation’s vision and operations with a strong focus on integrity, innovation and long-term impact for emerging ballet talent across Australasia.

A minimalistic workspace with a laptop, a white ceramic mug, a beige notebook, and a pen on a cream-colored table and boulder-like platform against a plain beige wall.

Peter Curtis
Director & Treasurer

Peter Curtis serves as Director and Treasurer of the Australasian Youth Scholarship, providing strategic financial oversight and governance. With a professional background in corporate banking and finance, he plays a key role in ensuring the organisation’s sustainability and growth.

Deeply connected to the arts and youth development, Peter combines financial expertise with a genuine commitment to supporting young dancers and strengthening opportunities within the classical ballet community.

Two people sitting at a wooden table with a lamp, notebooks, glasses of water, and a laptop.

Helen Cooper
Director

Helen Cooper is a finance professional with extensive experience across corporate and not-for-profit sectors. Holding a master’s degree in accounting, she brings strong financial stewardship and strategic insight to her role as Director of the Australasian Youth Scholarship.

With a lifelong connection to the arts and a passion for youth development, Helen is committed to supporting emerging dancers and ensuring the organisation operates with transparency, care and purpose.

Black and white photo of a woman with short curly hair, smiling and resting her chin on her hand, wearing a dark top.

Suzanne Arrigo
Secretary

Suzanne Arrigo is one of Western Australia’s most respected ballet educators and a Royal Academy of Dance Examiner with decades of experience in classical ballet training and assessment. Her career spans international examining, elite coaching and professional mentorship.

As Secretary of the Australasian Youth Scholarship, Suzanne contributes deep technical expertise, educational leadership and an unwavering commitment to nurturing excellence in young dancers.

A woman smiling, wearing a white shirt and blue jeans, with blonde hair and a hand touching her face, standing against a white background.

Jessica Gibson
Advisory Board Member

Jessica Gibson is an accomplished marketing professional with experience leading brand strategy and national campaigns across a range of industries. As Advisory Board Member and Marketing Lead, she guides the organisation’s communications and public presence.

Passionate about youth empowerment and the arts, Jessica plays a vital role in amplifying the mission of the Australasian Youth Scholarship and connecting audiences with its purpose.

Madison Curtis Headshot

Madison Curtis
Youth Ambassador

Madison Curtis is an emerging ballet artist and Youth Ambassador for the Australasian Youth Scholarship. Having trained with leading ballet institutions in Australia and internationally, she brings firsthand experience of pre-professional training pathways.

Through her ambassadorial role, Madison advocates for access, mentorship and balance in the development of young dancers, inspiring others to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience.