Pia-Maria Norris – Executive Director
For the past 10 years Ms. Norris has been the international spokesperson for Isadora, one of the leading cosmetic labels in Europe. In years prior, Ms. Norris worked as a fashion model with Elite Model Management and other modeling agencies worldwide. Ms. Norris also co-hosted an entertainment television show on a major TV network in South America for 4 years. She was a celebrity judge at the Ford Supermodel of the World Contest in 2005, and has participated in many other television productions, event organizations, and hosting of performances.
Born in Finland, where she received her marketing degree in 1987, Ms. Norris has since lived in 9 countries and speaks five languages. Over the course of her travels, Ms. Norris has gained an appreciation for diverse cultures and peoples. Her passion for eastern arts and cultures has always been especially strong, and she has worked extensively with various charitable efforts related to traditional Chinese arts and cultures as well as the improvement of human rights in Asia.
As Executive Director Ms. Norris oversees the development and implementation of all the foundation’s initiatives.
Jared Pearman – Program Director
Jared brings with him years of experience in international non-profit, public relations, and media work. He has a bachelor’s degree in International Business Management, and has been a successful event planner, copywriter, and digital media producer for multiple companies and NGO’s, from humanitarian aid organizations to internationally recognized media conglomerates. He was a co-founder of Gifted Unlimited New Zealand, a full-service branding consultancy, and regularly volunteers as a performer with the Asian Community Service Center of Washington D.C., Virginia, and Maryland.
As the Program Director Jared manages AVF’s grantee relations and works with the executive director and advisory board to develop the foundation's programs as well as oversee their implementation.