Executive Director

Douglas La Rose is the Executive Director of the Kava Coalition, where he leads a global alliance of consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to promoting the safe, responsible use of kava and advancing public education about its cultural and economic importance. With over 15 years of experience in agriculture, trade, and development across sub-Saharan Africa, he has held leadership roles on agricultural development projects at ACDI VOCA, Corus International, Counterpart International, and Catholic Relief Services. An anthropologist by training, Douglas began his career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ghana and continues to bridge culture, agriculture, and markets in his work. He holds an M.A. in Applied Anthropology from San Diego State University, a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology from UC Santa Barbara, and is completing a Masters in Agribusiness from Doane University.

Director of UK Kava Coalition

Dr. Simon Gellar is a lecturer in Criminology at the University of Kent, where he has worked since 2021. His research seeks to understand novel psychoactive substances and their relative benefits and harms, alongside the lived experience of consumers, to inform more precise drug policy in the U.K. and internationally. Specific to kava, his research challenges the prohibition of its sale in the U.K. and untangles misconceptions about the plant from a cross-cultural perspective.

Fellow

Mike Salem is a fellow at Kava Coalition UK and advises on its campaign operations.

He has worked on campaigns on a range of issues in the UK, with particular focus on freedom to choose, notably on sin taxes, digital markets and NHS reform.

He graduated from the London School of Economics with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, and was actively involved in promoting free speech and debate during his time there. Mike also volunteers on the governing board of a local school and enjoys activities like tennis and playing the bassoon.

Diplomatic Representative

First Secretary, Tonga High Commission in London. Visionary Leader | Diplomat | Pacific Sustainability Advocate

Viliami Lolohea is a Tongan diplomat, educator, and environmental advocate currently serving as First Secretary at the Tonga High Commission in London. With deep roots in both the Pacific Islands and Europe, he brings a rare and powerful blend of cultural fluency, diplomatic experience, and strategic foresight. Read Viliami’s full bio here.

Fiji and Rugby Representative

Tevita “Tex” Cavubati is a powerful Fijian international rugby union lock, celebrated for his imposing stature, dynamic ball-carrying, and strong presence in the pack. Born in Suva, Fiji, he rose through local rugby before making his professional breakthrough with the Tasman Makos in New Zealand. Over his career, Tex has played for top clubs including Ospreys, Worcester Warriors, Newcastle Falcons, and Harlequins. He’s also a committed international, earning numerous caps for the Fijian national team.

Now part of the UK Kava Coalition, Tex is dedicated to introducing the Pacific’s most respected traditional drink to audiences across the UK. He advocates for kava as a mindful, culturally grounded alternative for relaxation and social connection. Drawing on his roots and his experience building community through sport, Tex helps bridge Pacific heritage with modern UK wellness culture.

Grounded, humble, and passionate about his culture, Tex brings authenticity and heart to the movement to share kava responsibly, respectfully, and proudly.