Who We Are
A collective of Story Catchers empowering unheard voices and strengthening
the fabric of an inclusive and diverse Australia
Milena Sanhueza Ben-David
Director & founder
Milena Sanhueza Ben-David is the founder of Australian Story Catchers Inc, a filmmaker and community worker dedicated to amplifying under-represented voices. Born into a Chilean refugee family and raised in Canada, she carries a lived understanding of displacement, cultural identity, and the power of memory.
Milena holds a degree in Political Science (magna cum laude) and a Diploma in Community Services and Documentary Filmmaking. Across her work she blends academic rigour, trauma-informed interviewing, and ethical storytelling practice. Over the last four years she has produced and recorded more than 100 oral histories, collaborating with seniors, multicultural communities, migrants, and emerging artists.
Her most recent documentary, Crossing the Pacific: Chilean Voices in Australia, captures the testimonies of Chilean refugees and the Australians who supported them. Screened across multiple cities, the film preserves intergenerational memory, honours cultural resilience, and strengthens community belonging.
As Director of Australian Story Catchers, Milena leads with a commitment to story sovereignty, dignified representation, and safe spaces for lived-experience storytelling. She believes that when communities see their stories reflected, they gain recognition, connection, and the confidence to shape the world around them. She strongly believes that storytelling strengthens the fabric of Australia, deepening our diversity and nurturing true inclusion.
“When we honour our stories, we unlock the power within each of us
to shape the world in extraordinary ways.”
our Board
Our board provides strategic guidance, lived wisdom, and community leadership to ensure our organisation grows with purpose and integrity.
Juliane is a community champion with deep experience working with seniors and women’s groups. Devoted to environmental sustainability and humane animal treatment, she balances practical governance with social conscience. She supports our organisation’s long-term sustainability.
Yvette is all about creating fair and inclusive spaces. A passionate advocate for dignity and equal opportunity, she brings people together through a calm, steady leadership style that highlights compassion, equity, and social impact.
Eliana specialises in meaningful community partnerships. Known as the organiser who “brings things to life,” she connects people with ease and warmth. With a meticulous eye for detail and strong operational skills, Eliana ensures projects run smoothly, on schedule, and with care.
Our Team
Our team brings together the practical skills that make our work possible.
