Our Executive

Our 2026 Executive

Abby Wellington

President

Abby is a Graduate at Deloitte Access Economics Australia, having recently completed her studies in Economics (Hons) and Journalism at the Queensland University of Technology. Her interests include international political economy, agricultural economics and global security.She has previously volunteered at the Australian Institute of International Affairs Queensland and participated in the Young Diplomat’s (Hague, Netherlands) 2024 Winter Seminar. She also attended the Lowy Institute’s 2023 Lecture and interned at the U.S. Consulate-General, Sydney in 2024. Abby first joined YDS as the Regional Correspondent for Southeast Asia in 2023 and is excited to continue to grow and support the organisation in 2026!

Jeff Zhou

Vice President (Internal)

Jeff is a Master in Public Policy candidate at Harvard Kennedy School, focused on tech policy and international affairs. He serves as Regional Director at The Borgen Project, mobilizing advocates and engaging congressional offices to advance U.S. leadership on international poverty. Jeff is also a Global Shaper with the World Economic Forum, leading crisis response initiatives and coordinating with NGOs on immigrant rights. Previously, Jeff was Head of Investor Relations and Portfolio Operations at Untapped Ventures, facilitating a $22 million fundraise and managing 32 startups. He holds a B.S. in Finance from NYU Stern School of Business. As internal VP, Jeff will manage strategy and operations at the organisation to ensure all members enjoy their experience volunteering with YDS

Isaac Lin

Vice President (External)

Isaac is a third-year student at the Australian National University studying a Bachelors of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE), where he also serves as the Vice President of the ANU International Relations Society.

Having first joined YDS in 2025 as an Outreach Officer, Isaac now leads the organization’s external relations and strategic engagement as the Vice President (External) of the Young Diplomats Society. He is passionate about public policy, diplomatic affairs, and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Asia-Pacific.

Liubov Korina

Treasurer

Liubov Korina holds a double degree in Economics and Arts (International Relations and Peace and Conflict Studies) from the University of Queensland. Her interests lie at the intersection of economic development and international security, shaped by academic exchanges at the University of Copenhagen and graduate studies at the Dubrovnik Atrocity Prevention School.Through roles with the Australian Institute of International Affairs, the Young Diplomats Society and Amnesty International, Liubov has organised public‑policy forums, curated diplomatic dialogues and lead youth‑engagement campaigns. She has also contributed to research initiatives at the Asia Pacific Centre for the Responsibility to Protect.

Deborah Bouchez

Secretary

Deborah is a development and international affairs professional with a strong interest in defence, diplomacy, and Indo-Pacific security. She currently works at Abt Global, where she helps turn research and strategy into practical solutions for development programs across the Indo-Pacific.

As a postgraduate in Policy and International Relations, Deborah has gained experience across government and diplomatic settings, including internships with DFAT and the Embassy of Mexico in Australia.

Deborah joined the Young Diplomats Society in 2025 as a writer and now serves on the Executive team, contributing to informed and accessible discussions on foreign policy, security, and diplomacy.

Stephen Kei

Marketing and Communications Director

Stephen Kei is a communications and research professional specialising in international relations and public engagement. As Marketing and Communications Director at the Young Diplomats Society, he oversees digital strategy and content development to promote global affairs to young audiences.

Based in Sydney, he currently works as a Governance Research Assistant at ISS STOXX, where he supports research on corporate governance and financial markets. Stephen holds dual Master’s degrees in International Relations and Asia-Pacific Affairs, with a research focus on Taiwan’s diplomacy in the Pacific. He also brings over ten years of experience in media production, including photography and video, enabling him to translate complex global issues into accessible and engaging content.

Sam Warner

Editor-In-Chief of Publications

Sam Warner is a University of Melbourne student and young professional who has gained a passion for global affairs through his study of international relations, law, foreign languages. Alongside his Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor studies, Sam has pursued a range of experiences in the public and NGO sectors to deepen his knowledge and contribute to research and action on matters such as housing and infrastructure, law reform and human rights. These include working at Development Victoria and volunteering with the Australian Law Reform Commission, the Australian Institute of International Affairs and Amnesty International. As an avid reader and debater, as well as former editor of the Melbourne International Relations Review, Sam is committed to ensuring that YDS publications can serve as a platform to empower young people while delivering high quality and engaging material.

Ashlee Pasfield

Events Director

Ashlee Pasfield works as heritage professional and advocate for cultural preservation based in Sydney, Australia. She currently works as a Consultant at Weir Phillips Heritage, where she contributes her expertise in historical research, reporting, and heritage assessment. Ashlee is also an Ambassador at the Anzac Memorial, furthering her community engagement.

She earned a Bachelor of Ancient History with a focus on anthropology and the application of historical precedents in contemporary politics.

Ashlee’s commitment to heritage and community-driven storytelling reflects her passion for preserving and sharing the cultural narratives that shape our communities.