MEET
Team Tirzah
Suzy Bates Executive Director
With 10 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and a passion to further God’s Kingdom and advance women’s issue globally, I am eager to contribute towards Tirzah’s strategic goals. I, myself, was my church’s first ever female preacher, Executive Pastor and elder since its’ beginning in the 1970s, paving the way for more women in leadership within that organization for years to come. I have been the advocating voice to include Tirzah in my church’s annual fundraising goals. I have had the privilege to see Tirzah’s influence firsthand in Hyderabad, New Delhi and Mumbai, India. I truly have never been able to look away. God has held my gaze fast on this sacred effort!
Stacia Hiramine
Creative Communication Consultant
I’m Stacia Hiramine, an impact communications professional with a decade of experience in ethical storytelling, creative direction, and design. I have a deep passion for sustainability and women’s empowerment. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with brands and nonprofits around the world. As a third-culture kid, I bring a unique perspective to my work, excelling at developing compelling narratives, strategic content, and innovative campaigns. My expertise lies in crafting impactful stories that bring together diverse audiences, blending creativity with strategy to drive engagement and results. I currently live in San Diego County with my partner Art and our goldie, Kaida.
KAMILLA BEN
Compliance Manager
My involvement with Tirzah goes back more than a decade. I've seen the organization go through various changes; through it all Tirzah remains steadfast to God, its mission, and the women they serve. To see the focus remain true as they grow and to continue to hear the stories of lives changed is "why" I'm involved with Tirzah.
I worked in finance in the nonprofit sector for several years and then shifted to financial audit focusing on nonprofit organizations. From there, my career shifted to working with organizations from various industries in the area of Information/Cybersecurity.
SARAH GUIDONE
Financial Director
Over the past 15 years, I have served in diverse, multi-disciplinary collaborations in the nonprofit, academic, and public domains. I have a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago with a focus on program development, social science research, and policy writing. I love any opportunity to connect big-picture thinking with real-life implementation. I have worked to support social justice teams and advocate for policy and local government changes that impact people and social systems. My experiences include youth mentoring and development programs, government agencies, school systems, warehouse management, compliance, and juvenile justice. I love working directly with students and mentees to share any and all knowledge and lessons I’ve learned! I’m originally from the Chicago area but am now based in Colorado Springs and am enjoying the switch from city life to mountain living.
Allie Vermaelen
Operations Manager
Throughout the last 10 years, I have had the privilege to work with diverse populations as a clinical social worker. My main focuses have been in mental health and hospice services. I have worked in several settings including the criminal justice system, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private residences. With a heart for community and empowerment, I have been led to Tirzah International. Getting to know all of the women involved in this organization has been such an eye-opening and inspirational experience. I currently reside in Louisiana with my husband and 3 young children.
Bekah Aleckson
Donor Engagement Manager
I’m currently based in Colorado, with a heart for service and love for the great outdoors! I live to serve and connect people. I live to find innovative solutions to complex problems. Joining Tirzah has given me the opportunity to do just that and more! I recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from CSU Global Campus. I have gained diverse experience across multiple industries from real estate and non-profit organizations to government services. My heart is to serve the people around me, whether that’s locally or internationally. Outside of my professional life, I am an avid adventurer who loves rock climbing, hiking, skiing; just about anything that gets me outdoors.