Our Ambassadors
Our Team of Ambassadors each have a story to tell about Craniofacial Australia.
Please contact us if you would like one of our Ambassadors be a part of your event to raise awareness about our Foundation.
Professor David David AC
Craniofacial Australia Chairman
In 1975 Professor David David AC set up the South Australian Craniofacial Unit, which later became the Australian Craniofacial Unit. In the four decades since, he, with the help of his dedicated team of professionals, have helped restore dignity to thousands of patients. In his hands, complex surgical procedures seem commonplace and he does indeed perform "everyday miracles".
In recognition of his work he was named 2018 South Australian of the Year, received the Companion of the Order of Australia in 1988, and in 1990 South Australia honoured him by naming him the South Australian of the Decade.
As Chairman of Craniofacial Australia his aim is to commission and promote research directed at improved patient outcomes, to develop and implement training and teaching courses worldwide and to support for patients and families when they need it most. He also encourages and supports associated research and teaching activities and associated health systems development.
Damian DeWit
Hi, I’m Damian. I proudly represent Craniofacial Australia after a traumatic and life-altering event in 2005, when a rock was thrown at my car while I was driving. The impact caused a devastating accident that left me with life-threatening injuries and severe facial trauma. What followed were 15 operations and years of rehabilitation under the extraordinary care of Professor David David AC and the Craniofacial team between 2006 and 2010.
From the moment I met Professor David, his compassion and dedication were undeniable. He became more than my surgeon - he became a friend, and part of my family.
Today, I work in the training sector, but what truly drives me is connecting with people, inspiring others, and making a lasting impact. Through my journey, I’ve learned resilience, determination, and the power of kindness - qualities I carry with me every day, especially in my most important role: being a Dad.
Whether it’s through my story, my smile, or the beard, I’m proud to represent the life-changing work of Craniofacial Australia. I will forever be grateful to Professor David and his incredible team.
* Damian is available for engaging talks in Adelaide at your club or business, or via Zoom to audiences across Australia
Selva Kumar
Selva was born with a rare craniofacial cleft, a severe deformity of the face and head that affects both bones and soft tissue.
Some of the complications for children with a rare craniofacial cleft include trouble eating and breathing, making life impossibly difficult.
Briana Degnan
Briana was only 2 days old when she first met Professor David David.
Briana was the first baby born at the North-Eastern Hospital with a cleft lip.
She had her first surgery at 3 months old, with 17 more to follow.