THE TEAM
CALEB
Founder and Chairperson
After a life-changing trip to India, Caleb Jude Packham founded Academy of Hope in 2016. With a background as an internationally acclaimed yoga teacher, founder of Wellness Warrior, author of The Power of Yoga for Men and former MTV host, Caleb combines his diverse talents to support his humanitarian efforts. Drawing inspiration from his family’s long-standing commitment to the welfare of others, he is dedicated to ensuring that the children supported by Academy of Hope have continued access to education, ultimately helping to improve the future of their communities.
KYLIE
Co-founder and Secretary
Kylie Watson, a former TV/film actor and Miss International Australia fourth runner-up, previously volunteered with the AIDS Council of NSW (ACON), Blue Mountains Refugee Support Group, and Bush Search and Rescue (BSAR). As co-founder of Academy of Hope, she brings her passion for service into helping others. In her current occupation as a recovery manager and integral life coach, Kylie empowers individuals to achieve holistic wellness, guiding them to align with their values and thrive. Through AOH, she remains committed to driving positive, transformative change in the lives of others.
MATT
Treasurer
Matt brings over 14 years of experience as an Assurance Director at PwC, leading integrated audits for multinational clients in the Consumer Markets and Industrial Products sectors. He holds an MBA and a BBA in Accounting from Adelphi University, where he was actively involved in student leadership. A Certified Public Accountant, Matt’s financial expertise and strategic insight are invaluable to Academy of Hope, where he is dedicated to affecting positive change.
PURNOOR
Head of Legal and Governance
Purnoor is a practicing lawyer (Advocate, BCI) with an LLM in Corporate Law from Durham University, specialising in legal and governance frameworks that strengthen our mission. Fluent in Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, and English, she combines deep regional understanding—rooted in her education and work within her native India—with a robust legal practice in the UK. Purnoor’s extensive experience in Indian law and NGOs brings invaluable expertise to AOH, where she is dedicated to advancing children’s welfare and education with the highest standards of legal integrity and governance
NINA
Advisory Board Member - Strategist
Nina is a management consultant specialising in transformation programs that drive organisational change. Currently studying at LSE, she blends academic insights with hands-on experience gained from her early career in project management and civil engineering. A University of Sheffield graduate (BEng Civil Engineering, Hons), Nina is passionate about supporting Academy of Hope’s mission. Her commitment to education and humanitarian initiatives is reflected in her volunteer role at Paiwand Charity, where she assisted in Saturday school for refugees. Nina actively works to foster positive change within communities and through collaboration with NGOs.
DEEPAK + SONIA
Coordinator and Guardians, India
Deepak coordinates Academy of Hope in India, while both he and his wife, Sonia, serve as guardians at the safe shelter. Their daughter, Tamana, was the first child sponsored by Academy of Hope, and their son, Arav, also benefits from the program. Together, they are dedicated to supporting the children at the shelter by meeting their daily needs, ensuring their safety and well-being, overseeing school transport, homework and tracking academic progress.
REBECCA
Well-Being Director
Rebecca has dedicated over 25 years to education and mindfulness for children.
Co-founder of Peace Button and a former London primary school teacher, she is passionate about fostering global connection and peace. After experiencing the joy of working with Academy of Hope children in India, she is thrilled to continue making a difference in their lives as well-being director.
RED STRING FILMS
Filmmaker / Stills photographer, India
Prasanna Ghag of Red String Films proudly joined us to film our first short documentary, capturing the powerful stories of the children we support. The stunning visuals you see on our website - including the beautiful short film - are thanks to Prasanna and Kabir Singh’s dedication. As their debut project with Red String Films, they were thrilled to be part of such a meaningful and impactful mission.