OUR MISSION
Transformational creates multimedia-based IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) resources to empower vulnerable communities facing trauma and risk.
Through trauma-informed education and resilience-building learning tools, we help communities understand risks, recover from adversity, and develop lasting well-being. Our interactive materials support healing, risk management, and long-term recovery.
OUR
STORY
Long, Long Ago ....
Our journey began in 1998 in West Java, Indonesia, when Rob Greaney was commissioned by a local NGO to create songs for community health awareness, covering topics from family planning to anemia prevention. The songs' catchy tunes and impactful lyrics quickly spread across communities, driving positive action.
In 2007, Sandra Greaney joined the team, bringing her expertise in design, animation, game creation, and accelerated learning. Together, they transformed Health Songs into a dynamic force, creating multimedia IEC resources that turn essential health messages into memorable, actionable community solutions.
Pioneering Communications
Our journey has had its highs and lows as we developed two key areas that shape our accelerated learning approach:
Ethno-Musicology – Studying music in its cultural context, using familiar, contemporary songs that help communities connect with essential health messages, making them easier to adopt.
Ethno-Illustrology – A term we coined for our focus on authentic ethnic design and characters. By reflecting learners’ identities, our visuals create a sense of belonging, relevance, and connection.
Research drives our work, allowing us to develop culturally relevant IEC materials that resonate deeply with the communities we serve. By incorporating familiar, engaging formats, we enhance learners' ability to absorb critical messages. This approach accelerates learning and ensures lasting impact.
Becoming a Charity
We have transitioned from Health Songs International to the Transformational Charitable Trust (Transformational). This change strengthens our ability to collaborate with like-minded charities and development agencies, enabling more impactful partnerships. As a registered charity, we can access dedicated funding and public support, allowing us to respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of the communities we serve.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
We believe learning happens in many ways. By respecting diverse learning styles, we provide tools that equip individuals and communities to grow in ways that work best for them, fostering confidence, independence, and long-term resilience.
Compassion & Dignity
We prioritize the well-being of vulnerable communities, recognizing that dignity comes from being valued and heard. Respect for culture, lived experiences, and indigenous knowledge guides our work as we collaborate to support locally-driven solutions.
Innovation for Impact
We value creativity as a powerful force for change. By embracing playful engagement through media, music, storytelling, and games, we bring messages to life in ways that resonate deeply with learners. We prioritize local knowledge and cultural relevance, ensuring learning is not only impactful but also joyful and transformative.
Local-Led Solutions
True transformation occurs when communities lead their own change. By involving local specialists, utilizing Indigenous Knowledge (IK), using local materials, and supporting local enterprises, we promote sustainable, scalable solutions that strengthen both local economies and the long-term impact of development.
Integrity & Transparency
We operate with honesty, accountability, and openness, building trust with donors, partners, and the communities we serve. We actively solicit feedback from clients and stakeholders, ensuring that we continuously improve our services and the outcomes of future projects.
Resilience & Healing
We understand the impact of trauma and provide psychosocial support through educational and creative resources that bring hope, joy, and healing to those in need.
Lasting Change
We focus on sustainable, practical solutions that create long-term impact, ensuring our initiatives are not just short-term fixes but lead to lasting change.
Impartiality
We are committed to supporting those in need, ensuring fairness and equity in all our actions. By adhering to the principle of impartiality, we ensure our work remains accessible to all communities, especially in emergency situations.
OUR
VALUES
OUR
TEAM
Our dedicated team of development specialists and media production professionals brings over 150 years of combined experience, driving impactful solutions for communities worldwide.
Sandra Kreniski Greaney (NZ)
Art Director - Animation Lead
Sandra is our amazingly talented and hard working Art Director, animator and 3D artist. She has a degree in Fine Arts, Industrial design, English teaching and specializes in Accelerated Learning. Sandra is also a specialist in Ethno-illustrology, a term that Transformational has coined and developed under Sandra's guidance.
Rob Greaney (NZ)
Development Manager - Producer
Rob cut his teeth in International Development in Indonesia and is our resident Ethno-musicologist managing all things audio. Rob is a talented songwriter selling over 30k albums. As Development Manager Rob is always on the lookout for new opportunities and great partnerships.
Alefiyah Jiwanji (SA)
Education Research Specialist
Currently based in Nairobi, Alefiyah has dedicated her life to understanding how people learn. With a Masters in Education and a Bachelor of Honours, International Studies and Modern Languages (French and Russian), Alefiyah brings a structured and disciplined approach to research and presenting the results.
Mohammed J Sabe (Gaza)
MENA Field Representative
Sabe, a resident of Gaza, holds a master's degree in international development and has strong connections within the international NGO community. His excellent communication skills and humanitarian dedication make him an invaluable team member. Â
Development strategist
Lindy is an Educator, Academic Theorist, Business Professor, Organizational Consultant, and Community Development Practitioner. He is a brilliant and articulate communicator and is driven by a passion for social justice. Lindy guides and advises the team on development principles and their implementation in our project work.
Lyndell (Lindy) Backues Phd (US)
Dana Hemingway (NZ)
Video Producer
Dana is our lead video producer with over 30 years of industry experience. Dana has specialized in outdoor video production. Compassion drives Dana and he will tell that his favourite projects are those where he can use his extensive producer skills to help vulnerable communities.
Tran Le (Vietnam)
Illustrator
Tran, one of our key illustrators has the ability to capture just the right emotion with every stroke of her stylus. She brings creativity and visual direction and has an amazing ability for interpreting complex emotions into captivating storyboards and illustrations.
OUR PARTNERS
To our trusted partners and clients, your collaboration and trust inspire us to deliver impactful solutions. Together, we empower communities to better understand and manage risks, driving meaningful change. Thank you for being a crucial part of our journey.
