Maria Said, AM, is the Chief Executive Officer of Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA). She is a Registered Nurse and is a Co-chair and Director of the National Allergy Council. Maria has been a member of A&AA since 1993 when her son was diagnosed with severe atopy (allergic disease) including food allergy. As a volunteer, she became national President of the organisation in 1999. Maria is an advocate for individuals who live with allergic diseases including food allergy and the risk of anaphylaxis. She shares information on the mission of the organisation and the consumer perspective with teaching and health professionals, the food industry, federal and state government departments and the Australian community. Maria is internationally recognised and respected.