Thank you and farewell to Libby Saunders

We acknowledge with gratitude the extraordinary contribution of Libby Saunders, Co-CEO of the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP), who concludes her time with BASP after ten years of dedicated service.

Since joining BASP in 2015, Libby has been a tireless and courageous advocate for people seeking asylum. In an increasingly complex and challenging policy and social environment, she has remained steadfast in ensuring that those most vulnerable are not forgotten. Her work has been both deeply practical and profoundly human - securing housing for hundreds of individuals and families, coordinating essential support through BASP’s volunteer network, and offering a compassionate and consistent presence to those navigating the uncertainty of life in a new country.

Libby’s leadership has embodied the spirit of BASP as a truly community-based initiative. She has built strong and trusting relationships across parishes, donors, volunteers and those seeking asylum, fostering a model of support grounded not in transaction, but in shared humanity. In doing so, she has helped sustain BASP as a place where people are welcomed, known and supported as neighbours.

Her contribution has extended well beyond organisational leadership. Libby has given generously, responding to need with creativity, integrity and deep compassion. The impact of her work is reflected in the lives of many who now have the stability, dignity and opportunity to build a future. In 2024, Libby Saunders was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for contributing significantly to community health and, in particular, for her work with asylum seekers. 

Libby’s presence will be deeply missed at the Brigidine Ministry Centre and across the Kildare Ministries community. We thank her for the difference she has made each day, and for the countless ways she has brought compassion and hope to others.

We wish Libby every happiness and fulfilment as she begins this new chapter of retirement.