EIL Staff - EIL Intercultural Learning

Chief Executive Officer - CEO

Aideen O’Leary

Aideen O’Leary joined EIL Intercultural Learning as Chief Executive Officer in January 2024, bringing a truly global outlook shaped by living in seven countries and travelling to more than fifty. A Cork native, she holds postgraduate qualifications in Finance and an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability. Her professional background spans international banking and six years in the development sector across Africa.

Before joining EIL, Aideen led the Irish charity Bóthar through a period of renewal, strengthening governance, restoring financial transparency, and rebuilding fundraising capacity. Fluent in French and Spanish, she believes deeply in the power of intercultural learning to foster empathy and understanding.

At EIL, she combines her leadership experience and strategic vision to support meaningful global engagement and expand opportunities for participants to connect across cultures and communities.

Head of Programmes

Adam Peerbux

Adam Peerbux brings over fifteen years of experience in youth work, community development and education to his role as Head of Programmes at EIL. A former recipient of EIL’s ‘Explore’ Scholarship in 2013, he travelled to India on a life-changing intercultural journey that shaped his career. Adam holds qualifications in Social Care, Mental Health, International Human Rights, and Business Innovation & Enterprise.

Since joining EIL/AFS Ireland in 2016, Adam has led initiatives that empower young people, promote global citizenship and create opportunities for personal growth.

Passionate about helping people reach their potential, Adam’s leadership style is inclusive and values-driven. Outside of work, he enjoys family life, sport, culture, history and travel, and continues to advocate for opportunities that foster personal growth and social awareness among young people.

Head of Finance & Administration

Domnica Bivol

Originally from Moldova, Domnica Bivol brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, finance, and sustainability to her role as Head of Finance and Administration. She holds a BA in International Relations, an MBA, and a Management Leadership accreditation, and is a member of the Institute of Accounting Technicians Ireland. Domnica has worked across both corporate and non-profit sectors, with a particular focus on organisational development and financial governance.

Her work aligns closely with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting her commitment to ethical management and long-term impact.

Outside the office, Domnica enjoys mindfulness, gardening, and spending time in nature. She combines analytical precision with a deep sense of care, helping EIL grow sustainably while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Communications & Volunteer Manager

Linda O'Connell

Linda O’Connell brings over two decades of experience in communications, brand strategy, and storytelling within the non-profit sector. Holding a BSc in Zoology and an MSc in Digital Marketing Strategy, she blends creativity with purpose-driven strategy.

As the founder of Digi Nomad, she was named Network Ireland Business Woman of the Year 2020 and received the Cork Business Association Award the same year. Deeply passionate about human rights and mental health advocacy, Linda has volunteered with several organisations and served as a Sage Advocate for older people. A seasoned traveller and wildlife photographer, she has also spent time on meditation retreats in India.

At EIL, Linda channels her creative energy and communications expertise into amplifying EIL’s mission, inspiring people to connect, volunteer, and engage globally.

Programme Coordinator - Cultural Groups Department

Rebecca Kelly-Manders

Rebecca Kelly-Manders holds a degree in Culinary Arts and has worked in the food service industry since 1997. In 2011, she launched the award-winning food truck Street Chefs, went on to establish the Tallahassee Food Truck Association, and partnered with the City of Tallahassee to help create the Food Truck Court in 2013.

In 2017, Rebecca founded the non-profit REfire Culinary Training Program, which supports individuals with felony convictions in gaining employment within the hospitality sector. Since its inception, the programme has helped more than 120 participants earn certifications and secure employment, while maintaining a recidivism rate of just 9% among graduates. Rebecca brings extensive non-profit leadership experience and deep hospitality industry expertise to the EIL AFS Ireland Cultural Groups Team, helping to ensure participants enjoy the highest quality programme experience.

Her achievements include being named one of the 2014 25 Women You Need to Know, receiving the 2017 Oasis Trailblazer Award, the 2019 Small Business Development Council Community Champion Award, the 2019 New Leaders Council Askew Non-Profit Leader Award, serving as 2022 Vice-Chair of the Public Safety Coordinating Council, and receiving the 2023 National Association of Reentry Professionals Pace Award. Outside of work, Rebecca is a devoted New York Mets fan and a passionate hamburger enthusiast.

Programme Coordinator - Cultural Groups Department

Jillian Harris

Jillian Harris first joined EIL in 2019 as a group leader for Road Scholar programmes. With over twenty years of experience in hospitality and tourism, she has held senior roles including Conference and Banqueting Manager and Area Manager for an Irish-owned restaurant enterprise.

Jillian is a qualified Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide and holds a diploma from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (UK).

She is also an active member of Toastmasters International and has competed at international level.

A passionate traveller, sailor, golfer, tennis player, and photographer, Jillian once completed a leg of the Cutty Sark Tall Ships Race aboard the Asgard II. She combines leadership, creativity, and a love of culture to deliver high-quality, immersive experiences for visiting groups

Assistant Manager - Cultural Groups Department

Laura Hughes

Laura Hughes joined EIL in 2023 after relocating from Dublin to Cork. She holds a BA in Photography & Visual Culture and an MA in Information & Library Studies. Before joining EIL, Laura spent six years working in public libraries, managing cultural programmes and collaborating with national arts bodies.

She values lifelong learning, cultural access, and community engagement, principles that align closely with EIL’s mission.

A passionate reader, traveller, and singer-songwriter, Laura brings a creative perspective and strong organisational skills to her role. At EIL, she helps design and coordinate cultural group programmes that inspire discovery and connection, fostering deeper appreciation for Ireland’s artistic and social heritage.

Programme Coordinator - Cultural Groups Department

Ben Gilbert

A Cork native, Ben brings a strong background in strategic marketing to EIL Ireland. He holds a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and a Bachelor of Business in Management from Munster Technological University. His professional experience spans fundraising, digital marketing, event coordination and media, having worked across the non-profit, hospitality and media sectors.

Ben’s motivation is deeply personal. Having cerebral palsy, he understands first-hand the importance of education, opportunity and support. Having missed a significant amount of schooling during his childhood, he is passionate about helping to create opportunities for others.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys playing rugby, and when he’s not on the pitch, you’ll likely find him watching a match at the weekend.

Programme Coordinator - Cultural Groups Department

Anna Lisa Guarini

Originally from Italy, Anna Lisa has an international background spanning customer service, people management and tourism. Having lived in Germany, the Netherlands and the UK, she has a strong interest in different cultures and international experiences. Before joining EIL Ireland, she spent over a decade working at Amazon and later worked with Fáilte Ireland, helping visitors discover Ireland’s culture and heritage. She is a certified National Tour Guide and holds a degree in Modern Languages for International Cooperation. She also has experience working with children and teenagers as an educator and language teacher. In her free time, she enjoys travelling, exploring new places, cooking, reading and walking. She is passionate about cultural exchange and the connections it creates between people.

Programme Manager - Study Abroad Department

Therese Casey

Therese Casey studied English and Archaeology at University College Cork and spent several years working on archaeological excavations throughout Ireland. She later transitioned to English-language education, where she taught students from around the world for over a decade. Her dual background in archaeology and language teaching gives her a unique perspective on culture, place, and communication.

At EIL, Therese coordinates study abroad programmes, helping international participants engage deeply with Irish culture and heritage.

She is passionate about education, travel, and lifelong learning, and enjoys staying active outdoors despite the Irish weather. With her expertise and warm approach, Therese ensures each student’s study abroad experience is enriching and memorable.

Senior Programme Co-ordinator - Study Abroad Department

Shannon Coetzer

Originally from South Africa, Shannon Coetzer brings international experience and a strong commitment to community development to EIL’s Study Abroad team. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Corporate Law and has extensive experience in project management and non-profit operations. Before moving to Cork in 2022, Shannon served as Lead Project Manager for a major South African NGO focused on sustainable programmes for vulnerable communities.

Her global outlook and organisational skills ensure EIL’s study abroad programmes run smoothly and inclusively.

Shannon is passionate about helping young people grow through intercultural learning and fostering environments where every participant feels valued and supported. She thrives on connecting people across cultures and creating transformative educational experiences.

Study Abroad Programme Coordinator

Petra Milan

Petra joined EIL Ireland as Study Abroad Programme Coordinator, bringing with her a diverse background in education, student support, and project management. Originally from Croatia, she holds a Master’s Degree in Teacher Education and has gained extensive international experience through study, teaching, and professional roles across Europe.

During her university studies, Petra was awarded two Erasmus+ scholarships, which enabled her to study and work in Poland. Her career has included teaching, educational consultancy, and project coordination roles, including work with the Croatian Ministry of Science and Education, educational publishing, and initiatives supporting employment and educational opportunities for socially excluded groups. After moving to Cork, she worked as a Student Welfare Officer, supporting students and helping to ensure a positive and high-quality student experience.

Petra speaks Croatian, English and Polish, and is currently learning Portuguese. She has a strong interest in languages and cultures and enjoys travelling, cooking, photography, traditional music and dance. She is passionate about creating meaningful international experiences and supporting students throughout their study abroad journey.

Finance Assistant

Andrew Choe

Andrew Choe joined EIL in June 2022 as a Finance Intern while completing his studies with Accounting Technician Ireland. Originally from Malaysia, he has lived in multiple countries across Southeast Asia and Europe, working in sales, distribution, and hospitality sectors in Singapore, Malaysia, and Ireland.

These roles enriched his cross-cultural outlook and practical understanding of international operations.

At EIL, Andrew now supports the Finance team in day-to-day accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, and administrative tasks. He brings analytical precision, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit to his role.

Outside work, Andrew enjoys exploring Ireland’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage with his spouse and two children. He values deepening his connection to Irish life while sharing his own background and experiences. Through his professional and personal journey, Andrew embodies the intercultural and service-oriented ethos EIL embraces.

Programme Coordinator

Rebecca Ryan

Rebecca Ryan has over 15 years’ experience in the field of education. She holds a BA in Social Care from Waterford Institute of Technology and an MSc in Education, Public Policy and Equity from the University of Glasgow, as well as a postgraduate qualification in Creativity and Change from MTU.

Originally from Cork, Rebecca has lived and worked in a number of countries, including Italy, France, Spain, the UAE and Scotland, and has travelled extensively. Through these experiences, she has developed a strong interest in public policy and in how different systems and structures shape societies and support diverse communities.

Rebecca is passionate about social change, equity and creativity, and is committed to applying these values in her work to support the development of programmes and positive experiences for all students.