CommonAge is pleased to announce the appointment of Nadra Ahmed (UK) and Darren Birbeck (Australia) as Vice Chairs of the organisation.
These appointments reflect CommonAge’s continued commitment to strengthening leadership, collaboration, and advocacy across its Commonwealth network at a time of increasing complexity in ageing policy and service delivery systems.
Nadra Ahmed serves as Executive Co-Chairman of the National Care Association (UK). She is widely recognised for her influential leadership in adult social care policy, sector reform, and government engagement. A longstanding advocate for independent care providers, Nadra has helped shape national dialogue around funding sustainability, regulation, and workforce challenges. Her policy expertise and international advocacy experience will enhance CommonAge’s strategic influence across member countries.
Darren Birbeck is Chief Executive Officer of Resthaven Incorporated (Australia), one of South Australia’s leading aged care organisations. With extensive experience in governance, residential and community services, and retirement living, Darren is known for driving innovation and quality improvement across aged care systems. His operational leadership and strategic expertise will support CommonAge’s mission to strengthen service delivery frameworks throughout the Commonwealth.
Chair’s Statement
Chair of CommonAge, Femada Shamam, welcomed the appointments:
“At a time when ageing systems across the Commonwealth face significant structural and policy challenges, these appointments enhance our capacity to lead informed dialogue, strengthen collaboration, and support sustainable reform. Nadra and Darren bring the experience and perspective needed to guide impact at scale.”
Together, Nadra Ahmed and Darren Birbeck bring complementary strengths that position CommonAge to further its vision of supporting healthier ageing communities across the Commonwealth.