Our Founders
We are six women from different backgrounds who make up MotoMedics International. We are brought together by a shared passion, vision and commitment to do what we can to improve the lives of those who have great need but few resources.
Béatrice de Courtivron, Founder and Executive Director
A lifelong interest in humanitarian work came together for me in January of 2005 when I learned of Dr. Gerardo Solá’s work with Fundación Pilotos Solidarios and of (the late) Simon Milward’s Milennium Ride. My background in health services and my work with the American Motorcyclist Association helped me fully appreciate the unique importance of motorcycles to healthcare, especially in the ways they can access difficult, isolated areas. It’s my hope and passion to support these neglected communities by providing a gateway to the care we are all entitled to.
Colleen Cipriani, Director of Publicity and Special Events
A large part of my life has been dedicated to non-profit organizations; both as an administrator for a private, non-profit college and a volunteer for several non-profit organizations working for social justice. Two of my favorite volunteer positions are building houses with Habitat for Humanity and working as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) representing abused and neglected children. After meeting Beatrice and learning of MMI’s mission I was inspired to join these women in the wonderful work they are committed to accomplishing. So, to quote Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Linda Hyde, Founding Partner and Director of Program Development
I have worked in the corporate world for 20+ years as a marketing consultant. While I have had the satisfaction of helping companies make better business decisions, I hope to achieve a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment by helping underserved people in isolated areas improve their quality of life. I will continue my professional career on a part-time basis but I look forward to devoting significant time and effort to achieving MMI’s mission.
Andrea Bour Plant, Founding Partner
I learned about the work of Dr. Gerardo Solá and the tireless efforts of Fundación Pilotos Solidarios through MMI founder, Beatrice de Courtivron. As a former colleague of Bea’s at the American Motorcyclist Association, I had witnessed firsthand the exceptional generosity and philanthropic support of motorcycle enthusiasts in the USA and throughout the world. Bea’s vision for MMI strongly paralleled my lifelong interest in global cultures and the power of philanthropy to dramatically improve the health and well-being of individuals in those cultures and throughout the world.
Dianne Poncinie, Founding Partner
As a staff member of a small liberal arts college, I’ve seen the tremendous impact that education and awareness of global cultures has had on my own family and friends and on the communities in which we live. As a mother of three and a former healthcare worker, I maintain a deeply rooted commitment to caring for and helping those who have been blessed with far less than I. My friendship with Beatrice is a longstanding one and I knew from the moment I learned of her vision and goals for MMI that I would get involved and personally contribute to making MotoMedics a source of aid and support to the people of South America.
Zenia Tatarsky, Founding Partner and Researcher
In 2005 I traveled to Koyem, a village in Niger that is not marked on any map, to visit my sister who was stationed with the Peace Corps. During my month-long stay, I was astounded by how little these villagers had - yet how generous they were. The women taught me to pound grain, showed me how they cook and fed me their meals. The present day’s globalization stimulates the need for alliances across social and cultural boundaries. Using my strengths as an editor, researcher, analyst, and adventurer, I strive to assist or aid where I can, just like the women of Koyem assisted and taught me.
