Meet The Team
Helen
Paeng
Ning
Mway
Tami
Jennifer
Meet the Board
Paengsri Saeyong
Paengsri Saeyong is a distinguished survivor leader with profound expertise in human trafficking, exploitation, and understanding the psychology of survivors. Her extensive lived experience and insights have been instrumental to the leadership team of The Whispering Willow (TWW) since its inception. Paeng is a trained counselor and an interactive art trauma-informed trainer, bringing a unique blend of empathy and skill to her role. Leading a team of powerful survivor leaders, Paeng champions community development through her deep understanding of public health and family strengthening. Her dedication to transforming her experiences into actionable knowledge has made her a pivotal figure in driving sustainable change and fostering resilience within communities. Paeng's dedication to empowering others, coupled with her strategic approach to community development, has garnered her widespread respect and recognition.
Amy Doorlag
Amy Doorlag is a highly accomplished professional with extensive international experience in supporting women and children in war zones, conflicted areas, and regions plagued by human trafficking. Her strategic expertise integrates program development, grassroots needs, and evidence-based solutions to facilitate community healing and sustainable growth. Amy's dedication and invaluable experience make her a leading figure in global humanitarian efforts. Throughout her career, Amy has demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate complex environments and implement effective strategies that address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Her work has not only provided immediate relief but has also empowered communities to build long-term resilience. Amy’s commitment to creating impactful and lasting change has earned her recognition and respect from colleagues and communities worldwide.
Vincent Nimbalker
Vincent Nimbalker, co-founder of The Whispering Willow, hails from Malaysia and began his career as a Navigational Cadet Officer on international cargo ships. This role took him to ports around the world, providing him with a global perspective. Since 1989, Vincent has transitioned into full-time work as a trainer, coach, and counselor, gaining his expertise through programs with YWAM in Singapore, the Philippines, and Hawaii. His influence has extended across Australia, Canada, the U.S., and Asia, where he has impacted many lives with his leadership and coaching skills. Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand since 2019, Vincent, alongside his wife Helen, dedicates his efforts to serving those exploited in ports worldwide through The Whispering Willow. Additionally, he works as an English Consultant at Chiang Mai University Medical Faculty. His work is driven by a deep commitment to helping individuals discover their inherent worth and purpose. Vincent is deeply committed to helping individuals uncover their inherent worth and purpose. He believes that everyone has a unique destiny, which becomes evident through love, self-awareness and personal growth.
Mark Puttman
Mark has a lifelong passion for reading and writing, which he has channeled into creating adventure stories for his six grandchildren. What began as a personal project evolved into two published books, with a third in progress. Encouraged by his children, Mark decided to share the adventures of the Tusslebaum Twins with a broader audience. Professionally, Mark has delivered corporate training content in over 10 different programs and has been responsible for developing and updating training materials. He has also been instrumental in a mentoring program for men dealing with unplanned pregnancies, focusing on enhancing interpersonal relationships and fathering skills. He is a long-term volunteer at an organisation that provides emergency housing for survivors fleeing domestic abuse, helping them build stable, independent lives through vital programs delivered in a supportive environment. When not serving, Mark and Jayne enjoy traveling and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. ​ ​ ​ ​
Jeremy Janzen
Jeremy grew up on a farm in the prairies of Western Canada. His professional journey began in East Africa's savannah, where he played a pivotal role in community development. Immersed in the Maasai culture, Jeremy was inspired by their shared leadership practices. Collaborating with elders at the Leadership Training Institute of Nairobi, he co-developed a unique leadership program tailored for the Maasai community. In 2006, Jeremy returned to North America and joined a multinational food company. Over 15 years, he led the human resources department, driving substantial growth and innovation. During this period, he also completed a Master's degree in Leadership. In 2020, Jeremy and his family moved to Asia, where he currently leads a team engaged in various transformational initiatives across the region. Additionally, Jeremy consults with organizations in Canada and Asia on leadership, team building, and human resources. He is passionate about fostering growth in people and communities.
Suzane Christie
Suzane's passion for words and storytelling has propelled her into a distinguished 25-year career as a writer and editor. Her natural talent for managing teams effectively has enabled her to collaborate with some of the most creative minds in the industry, contributing to various local publications and corporations. Suzane has had the privilege of sharing spaces and thoughts with prominent CEOs, directors, high-ranking officials, and well-known personalities across the corporate, entertainment, and political spheres. Traveling to numerous foreign destinations has endowed her with the ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Suzane's continual goal remains to tell compelling stories, a skill she believes is essential for success in any industry. Suzane serves as the Cross Cultural Advisor on the Board. ​ ​ ​