The RI Board brings together experienced patient advocates and leaders from across the global retinal community. Representing Retina International’s member organisations, the Board ensures that the voices, priorities, and experiences of people affected by retinal conditions remain at the centre of our work.

Through their leadership, the Board supports Retina International’s commitment to advancing research, influencing policy, strengthening collaboration, and empowering communities worldwide.

The Board of Directors guides Retina International’s strategic direction and ensures the organisation continues to deliver meaningful impact for the global retinal community.

The Board is responsible for:

• Setting the strategic direction of Retina International
• Ensuring effective governance and accountability
• Overseeing financial sustainability and responsible management
• Supporting the Chief Executive Officer and Secretariat
• Representing the interests of member organisations
• Strengthening collaboration across the global retinal community
• Supporting the long-term sustainability and growth of the organisation

Retina International’s Board reflects the diversity and strength of our global network. Board members bring lived experience, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of people affected by retinal conditions.

Together, they represent patient organisations from across regions including Europe, Africa, North America, South America, and Australia.

Chair

Franz Badura has a long-standing career as a patient advocate and leader within the retinal community.

He has held several leadership roles with Pro Retina Germany and the Pro Retina Foundation, supporting efforts to advance retinal research since 1996. Franz served as Chair of Pro Retina Germany from 2012 to 2020.

Since 2005, he has initiated and organised the Potsdam Meeting, an internationally recognised research colloquium bringing together experts in retinal research.

Alongside his advocacy work, Franz is a professional musician.

Vice Chair

Mantoshan (Manny) Moodley is an attorney based in Cape Town, South Africa, and lives with Stargardt disease.

Manny has been actively involved in patient advocacy through Retina South Africa, serving as a Board member before becoming Chairperson in 2021 and CEO in 2025.

He also serves on the Board of the Cape Town Society for the Blind and contributes to organisations supporting people with disabilities.

Manny brings extensive experience in leadership, advocacy, inclusion, and strengthening patient voices.

Treasurer

Jeremy D’Souza joined the National Board of Retina Australia in 2016 and served as Deputy Chair from 2017 to 2021.

He currently serves as Treasurer of Retina International, Chair of the Staff and Finance Committee, and member of the Engagement and Outreach Committee.

Jeremy is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) with more than 25 years of experience across commercial and corporate roles.

He brings financial expertise and strategic insight supporting Retina International’s sustainability and governance.

Board Member

Jason Menzo was appointed CEO of Foundation Fighting Blindness in 2022.

Before this role, he served as Chief Operating Officer and President, leading fundraising, finance, operations, marketing, and community engagement activities.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is a leading organisation supporting research into treatments and cures for blinding retinal diseases.

Jason brings extensive experience in healthcare leadership, retinal innovation, and global collaboration.

Board Member

Caisa Ramshage is an IT architect working in the finance sector and serves on the Board of Svenska RP-föreningen.

She is also editor of Retinanytt, the organisation’s member publication, and has experience supporting Retina Europe Youth meetings.

Caisa brings expertise in technology, communications, and patient engagement.

Board Member

David Sanchez is President of RETINMUR in Murcia, Spain, and President of FARPE and FUNDALUCE.

Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, David brings personal experience of the retinal community and a strong commitment to strengthening communication, collaboration, and membership engagement.

He is particularly focused on connecting organisations across Latin America and supporting greater collaboration between patient groups.

Board Member

Marina Leite is a patient advocate from Brazil with almost ten years of experience working with patient associations internationally.

Living with Stargardt disease, Marina has been actively involved in the retinal community, including through the Retina International Youth Council.

She coordinates Grupo Virtual Stargardt in Brazil and is a trustee of Stargardt’s Connected in the United Kingdom.

Marina brings expertise in patient participation, public policy, innovation, and inclusion.

The Board of Directors works alongside Retina International’s Secretariat, Scientific & Medical Advisory Board, members, and partners worldwide to advance a shared vision: a future where people affected by retinal conditions have access to better information, support, research opportunities, and treatments.

Through global collaboration and patient-led leadership, the Board helps ensure Retina International continues to represent the needs and priorities of the retinal community.