Your Parent Candidates 2026
Ilya Mandel
Parent
I am very impressed by the ethos of the John Monash Science School and excited that one of my children has just started here. I am a professor of theoretical astrophysics at Monash University. As such, I have both a parental and professional interest in the quality of high school STEM education, and education broadly. I am particularly enthusiastic about contributing to JMSS by strengthening connections with the ongoing research at Monash University, taking advantage of my network of collaborators there. I am committed to ensuring that all students, of all cultural and economic background, genders, etc., receive the best educational opportunities. STEM in academia is still predominantly white and male, and this is at least partly due to a failure to nurture other groups earlier in their education, something that JMSS is already addressing and I would like to further. Finally, my own life trajectory, which has taken me from the former Soviet Union to Australia via the USA and the UK, with stops at Stanford, Caltech, Northwestern, MIT and the University of Birmingham, is a testament to the unique power of education and research to unite the world and build both personal and institutional bridges. I am still just as curious about the world and as keen to learn as I was at the age of today’s JMSS students. I look forward to bringing that passion for discovery, combined with more than 20 years of experience in the research and education sector, to the JMSS school council.
Natalie Isborn
Parent & Current Member/President
Over the past four years on JMSS School Council, including my current role as President and as a member of the Finance Committee, I have been committed to representing parents and contributing to the school’s strategic direction. I participated in the school review, supported council and committee decision‑making, and recently led a project to reinvigorate parent engagement, with our first event launching soon. I have valued the opportunity to serve and would welcome the chance to continue this work. I hold a BA (Hons)/LLB from Monash University, completing honours in psychology through the Science Faculty, which strengthened my interest in scientific thinking. My career in law has taken me from Australia to Europe, where I lived and worked for 11 years. My son Jesper is a JMSS alumnus, and my daughter Alexandra is currently in Year 11. While overseas, I completed an MBA at Warwick Business School. I have extensive experience in corporate governance, risk, financial analysis and strategy, including serving as Head of Equity Investments (M&A) for a major corporation. I am a graduate of the AICD and have chaired and served on multiple boards and am currently working as a lawyer and business structuring advisor. I approach issues with integrity, patience and a commitment to ensuring all voices are heard while focusing on finding a solution.
Arshad Jabbar
Parent
I am a father of two and a qualified Telecommunications Engineer with 23 years of industry experience. I am passionate about contributing to the local school community and have previously served as Treasurer at Wooranna Park Primary School. I am currently a parent member of the Dandenong High School Council and serve on its Finance Subcommittee.I look forward to continuing this journey by supporting and serving the JMSS community
Willem Popp
Parent
As a Monash University graduate, I have a long-standing association with the university where I completed my Honours degree and was the editor of the student paper, Lots Wife.
Since then, I have worked as a journalist across Australia, South-East Asia and London before moving into technology roles in the finance, not-for-profit and education sectors for the past two decades.
I have always been active in my local community as a parent helper at Edithvale Scouts and Edithvale Lifesaving Nippers. I was also on the school council at Edithvale Primary School and part of the selection committee to select a new principal and install a new school playground.
I founded and led the No Sky Rail Frankston Line community group which was successful in lobbying the state government to implement below ground rail crossings at key sites. This non-political association was the only community group successful in using its collective voice to enact change in the community’s favour in this contentious project.
I will bring this diverse experience to the JMSS school council to help the school continue its pivotal role in educating our students as the next generation of science leaders.
Sapna Saini
Parent
I am an engaged and committed parent with a strong professional background in procurement, strategic leadership, and risk management, built over 18 years across global organisations. My son, Gauraansh Saini, recently joined John Monash Science School, and through his transition I have developed a deep appreciation for the school’s culture of excellence, innovation, and scientific curiosity. My experience working in complex, high performing environments has strengthened my ability to evaluate information critically, collaborate across diverse teams, and contribute to long‑term strategic planning - the qualities that closely reflect JMSS’s focus on scientific inquiry, evidence‑based thinking, and preparing students for future focused pathways. I value the school’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, resilience, and independent thinking, and believe my background brings a practical, disciplined perspective that supports these goals. I am passionate about contributing to a community that empowers high‑potential students and supports their wellbeing, confidence, and academic growth. With experience in stakeholder engagement, problem solving, and collaborative decision making, I am confident I can bring a thoughtful, balanced voice to the School Council. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my skills and time as a Parent Member.
Swati Gupta
Parent
I am seeking to serve as a parent member on the John Monash Science School (JMSS) Council because I believe I can contribute by ensuring engagement between families and the school. As a parent, I can see how school interactions shape students’ wellbeing, learning experiences, and sense of belonging, and I want to contribute to those conversations and processes, particularly given JMSS’ strong wellbeing focus. Further, as a family, we have been on school council for our children’s primary school years. I will bring that learning to the JMSS Council.
On professional front, I have completed Australian Institute of Company Directors course, and I actively contribute as part of my role in higher education sector to various governance forums and board committees on people matters focussed on legislative and cultural requirements for ensuring positive psychosocial environments and that diverse perspectives are reflected in planning and policy. I am also one of the executive leaders for the Crisis and Incident Management team in my current role. I will bring these experiences to the JMSS Council.
Also, being on the school council will allow me to model active leadership for my child, demonstrating the importance of contributing to the community.
Imran Maniar
Parent
I would like to nominate myself as a parent member of the JMSS School Council because I am passionate about supporting our students, strengthening engagement, and contributing positively to the school community. I value the collaboration that occurs between families, teachers, the School Council team, and students, and I understand how important these partnerships are in shaping a thriving learning environment.
I bring strong communication skills, a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives, and a solution focused approach to decision making. My previous experience has prepared me well for this role, including:
• Volunteer Firefighter (3 years)
• School Council President, Lyndale Green Primary School (6 years 11 months)
• School Council President, Lyndale Secondary College (1 year 8 months)
• Current member, Disability Advisory Committee – City of Greater Dandenong
These roles have strengthened my leadership, governance, and community building skills, and have given me a deep appreciation for inclusive, transparent, and student-centred decision making.I am dedicated, approachable, and ready to participate actively in meetings, planning, and community initiatives throughout the year. I would be honoured to contribute my experience and commitment to the JMSS School Council and support the continued success of our school community.
Slava Kurenyshev
Parent
I’m a parent of a Year 11 student at JMSS, and I’m nominating for School Council because I care a lot about both learning and student wellbeing, especially in the senior years.
I’ve volunteered on school councils in different schools (primary and secondary). I’ve been part of both education and finance sub-committees, and I’ve served as Treasurer. I’m comfortable with school policies reviews, budgets and planning, and I like asking the simple questions that help decisions stay focused on what matters for students and the school.
For work, I’m in a management role in the tech industry and I have a Master’s degree in Computer Science. I’m really interested in how new trends and technology can make education better in real life by helping teachers, keeping students engaged, and making learning something students can actually enjoy.
I’d be happy to bring my experience, a practical approach, and a strong interest in student outcomes to the JMSS School Council.