Volunteer of the Year Award winners

The work of the Professional Practice Committee is invisible when it is functioning well - and irreplaceable when it is not. David Minty understands this deeply, and over more than thirty years of service to the Institute in governance and education, he has led accordingly. While Chair since 2023, the PPC has introduced a standardised definition of materiality across all Professional Practice Documents, delivered a comprehensive review of the Policy for Developing PPDs, and helped strengthen the governance and culture of professional standards across the Institute. The President has acknowledged this work as critical to protecting the trust placed in the Institute and its members. David does not seek recognition. He seeks results. This award is a fitting recognition of a contribution that is outstanding by any measure. 

What makes Amanda Aitken's contribution extraordinary is what it leaves behind. Drawing on the expertise of the Data Science and AI Practice Committee, she developed the syllabus for the mandatory Data Science Principles subject, developed and launched the Data Science Applications subject, and designed the new GenAI subject within the revamped Professionalism, Communication and AI mandatory subject. These are foundational contributions that will shape how actuaries engage with data science and artificial intelligence for years to come. This work went well beyond her responsibilities as a staff member of the Institute and included a significant contribution of her own personal time. Across ten years of service on the DSAIPC, Professionalism Committee, General Insurance Practice Committee, and Data Science Education Faculty, she brought energy, expertise, and genuine enthusiasm to everything she took on. When she stepped down, her peers said it simply: she will be missed. 

Since 2019, Timothy Lee has been a quiet but exceptional contributor to the Institute's education program. Beginning with scrutineering, Tim progressed through assignment and exam marking across multiple General Insurance subjects before taking on the role of Independent Examiner for GIA. Six separate nominators independently recognised the same qualities: professionalism, thoroughness, and a reliability that goes well beyond what is asked. He has helped ensure fairness and equity across General Insurance subjects year after year-building the profession from the inside and doing it exceptionally well.  

In a short time, Justin McGee Odger has made a remarkable impact. Since joining the Young Data and AI Working Group in late 2024, he has served as Secretary for both YDAWG and the Data Science and AI Practice Committee, taken ownership of the Data Science Actuaries Newsletter, coordinated its automated podcast, contributed to Actuaries Digital, and led the Data Bite social media series. He served on the organising teams for AI.Con 2025 and the Actuaries Summit 2026. An entrepreneur in the data science space with an active professional presence, Justin is a natural ambassador for actuaries in emerging fields -and a standout young volunteer by any measure. 

From Queensland YAP Chair to YAAB member, Deputy Chair, and Chair, Ryan Starkey's journey with the Young Actuaries Advisory Board is a story of steady growth and commitment to helping young actuaries discover what the profession offers. Under his leadership, YAAB introduced the Coffee Bot to build informal connections across the profession, established a quarterly newsletter, and expanded the Innovation Challenge to university students across the Asia-Pacific. A proactive advocate for young actuaries at the Council level, Ryan ensured their perspective was heard where it matters most. He leaves YAAB stronger, more connected, and with a broader reach than when he joined it.