Ensombl Darin Skinne
Ensombl Darin Skinne
The Early Days, Vision and Legacy of Community Impact.
An interview with Mohammad (Mo) Aldergham, Chief Executive Officer, Variety - the Children's Charity Tasmania.
The inspiring story of Variety Tasmania, from its humble beginnings in a shipping container to becoming a cornerstone of community support. Discover how Mo Aldergham’s journey, marked by passion, innovation and unwavering dedication has shaped their mission to create meaningful change for children in need.
Darrin Skinner, Ensombl
Ensombl Darin Skinner
Mohammad (Mo) Aldergham, CEO, Variety the Children’s Charity Tasmania
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The Early Days in Tasmania
Variety started in Australia 49 years ago, originating in Sydney.
In Tasmania, they have been active for 34 years or since 1990.
It all began with a group of generous individuals who saw the success of Variety on the mainland and wanted to replicate it here.
There’s still some debate about what came first—Variety itself or TasBash—but both have been part of the DNA since 1991.
Their first “office” was a shipping container in Derwent Park. Later, they moved to a space in Sandy Bay provided by the Woolworths’ state manager. Today, Variety the Children’s Charity Tasmania is based in Cambridge, thanks to the passion and dedication of their volunteers and supporters.
Mo’s Journey to Variety
Mo’s background is in business, corporate, hospitality, and tourism.
After years in those fields, Mo said he realised he wanted to do something more meaningful—something that truly gave back to the community. Initially, he joined Variety’s board while also serving on other boards, including Foodbank.
“When our CEO resigned during a strategic planning period, I stepped in as interim CEO to help with the transition. What I thought would be a short-term role evolved into a full-time commitment. Six years later, I’m still here, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.”
Biggest Influence Mo?
“Variety itself inspires me.
Our limitless charter—to support children under 18, no matter their circumstances—drives everything we do. Knowing we can step in where others can’t keeps me motivated.
Our only limit is how far we’re willing to dream.”
Unforgettable Moments
Mo says there are so many.
“TasBash stands out every year—six days, 1,700 kilometers, and a team of 56 colourful characters. It’s exhausting but so rewarding.
Then there are the creative projects, like hoisting a two-story cubby house onto the sixth floor of a hospital with 1,500 balloons to replicate the house from Up. That one was both a logistical feat and a labor of love.
But it’s often the smaller moments that resonate the most—handing a child a LEGO set in a hospital or seeing kids wave excitedly when we visit schools. Those moments remind me why we do what we do.”
Overcoming Challenges
“Evolving our business model has been critical.
When Variety began, it was primarily a pastoral charity—collecting donations and distributing them. That approach, while noble, isn’t sustainable today.
With 27,000 registered charities in Tasmania alone, we’ve had to shift to a commercially viable model focused on growth and measurable impact.”
Innovative Events: Mo’s Vision
When it comes to events, Mo is redefining the playbook. Gone are the days of static speeches from a single stage. Instead, he’s created a dynamic, interactive experience.
“We wanted to shake things up,” Mo says.
Picture this: two roving MCs weaving between tables, ensuring every guest feels part of the action. The highlight? Live kitchen crossovers at the Variety of Chefs Event!
Before each course, the chef and winemaker step forward, directly from the bustling kitchen, to share their stories.
“It’s about connecting people—not just to the food, but to each other,” Mo explains.
This approach has been wildly successful. In 2019, the event drew 200 attendees and raised $17,000. By 2024, it had grown to 410 attendees, raising a record-breaking $150,000.
“Our events are more than fundraisers—they’re about building connections,” Mo says.
Programs That Change Lives
Under Mo’s leadership, Variety has launched 5 innovative programs aimed at driving meaningful and scalable change:
- (1) Creative Arts Program: Art therapy for children experiencing trauma, delivered in schools for a safe environment. This year, 104 children benefited.
- (2) Inclusive Sports Days: Breaking barriers in sports, uniting children of all abilities.
- (3) Bikes for Kids: Providing bikes, helmets, and locks to children who’ve never owned one, giving them independence and joy.
- (4) Breakfast Club: Ensuring every child has access to breakfast, currently running in 26 schools.
Looking Ahead
When asked about his vision, Mo is unapologetically ambitious.
“We’re always looking for the next way to make a difference. It’s about identifying needs and stepping up to fill them,” he says.
From inspiring events to life-changing programs, Mo Aldergham and Variety Tasmania are building connections, driving impact, and creating lasting change—one child at a time.
Operation Shine
Operation Shine is an initiative of Collins SBA. This project is about building stronger connections with the partners and friends we work with but might not always have the chance to truly know. By engaging with people we aim to: (1) Acknowledge their contributions to our shared successes in the community where we live, play and work (2) Explore fresh ideas and perspectives that may fuel future collaborations and (3) Strengthen our business relationships by showing genuine interest in their stories. We appreciate the time and commitment our special guests gave to this project.
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