Meet the team
Dave Humphries - CEO
Specialist Support Coordinator & Mentor
David Humphries prides himself on creating and building relationships with clients to help them make the most out of life. His background in the youth and the disability sector, working in different cultures all over the world, gives Dave the skills and knowledge to connect with people from all walks of life. Dave’s professional sporting background also supports his knowledge of building relationships and supporting others. Having extensive knowledge in the NDIS sector, David will work with his clients to help reach their goals.
Say hello to the YCM team!
Skye Taylor
Accounting and Administration Coordinator
Mikaela Warwick
Rostering Coordinator
Mikaela is an administration and rostering guru who is passionate about workflows, her mentoring team and helping clients find their ideal match in mentors!
Her strengths are taking a birds-eye view of the wider business, all staff and matching them with participants to ensure participants are receiving the up-most best care.
Mikaela is a natural in the rostering position where she is always able to fill and schedule shifts to client requests.
Outside of work Mikaela enjoys playing netball & time with her young son and soon to be husband! We are so lucky to have Mikaela who keeps the business a float!
Megan Carey
Mentor
Megan is a mother of 3 beautiful boys and originally from Wollongong NSW. Some of Megan’s interests and hobbies include drawing/scrapbook, bringing new life into old furniture, exploring outdoors, exercising, and reading. Megan grew up around farm life and is the reason she loves living in the Adelaide Hills.
Megan has had over 10 years of customer service experience which provides Megan with a skillset and several great qualities including active listening, empathy, problem-solving and communication.
Megan is excited to build positive relationships with her clients and their families.
Sunday Bol
Mentor
Sunday has had two years of experience coaching and helping young people develop into better versions of themselves on and off the basketball court.
Through sport, Sunday has developed a passion in supporting people, whether that’s introducing sports to his clients or supporting them with everyday living skills and community access. He has also developed this passion through giving back to his family and community in South Sudan.
Sunday Immigrated to Australia from South Sudan due to the civil war in his home country. He and his mother came to Australia for a better education and brighter future.
Currently Sunday plays in the NBL1 basketball competition and is very excited to continue building trusting relationships with his Clients at Your Choice Matters
Bella Moon
Mentor
Bella is a kind and friendly mentor. Currently studying a Bachelor of Social Work at the University of South Australia.
Bella enjoys participating in creative tasks such as painting and craft. Her free time is also spent doing physical activity, including playing netball and going for walks.
She is a great listener, she is organised, punctual and always puts in effort to show consideration for others needs. She hopes to run group classes following the completion of her degree, meaning she will get to support clients whilst engaging in an activity that engages the brain and builds up social connection, resilience, and leaves people with a sense of belonging and achievement.
Sarah Madison
Mentor
Sarah is studying a bachelor of Social Work at University of South Australia. She enjoys spending time with clients and building strong relationships to assist them to achieve their goals. Sarah loves working with others and believes that you can learn so much from the people around you.
Sarah chose her degree because she has a passion for helping people and believes everyone should be able to have the opportunity to achieve all their goals big or small.
Sarah’s goal is to continue to work within the community after she graduates and hopes to work with lots of different people. In her spare time Sarah enjoys being with friends and family as she values the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people. Sarah loves going to the beach, going out for lunch and playing in social team sports.
Brandon Holloway
Mentor
Brandon is a sporting enthusiast who enjoys meeting and helping people. He has played and coached basketball for over 20 years, and has worked as a support worker since early 2020.
Brandon has completed a university degree in sports management, however is looking to continue his studies this year, focusing on the health and disability sector. Brandon has formed strong relationships with clients of your choice matters and is looking forward to meeting new people as time goes on.
Brandon says that “It is important to me that I have a positive impact on everyone that I meet, and that I am able to help them achieve their goals.”
Charlotte Haskett
Mentor
Charlotte has over ten years experience in the care sector, looking after babies and young children with complex needs as well as other areas of community service.
With a person centred approach and a passion for mental health Charlotte believes through the right support and care people can achieve their goals. Actively supporting people in everyday life is what inspires Charlotte to want to work within the field, using practical approaches.
Charlotte’s goal is to continue to work within the community services and mental health field with people as an advocate and support worker to help empower people.
Kelly O'Donnell
Mentor
Tim Ferguson
Mentor
Tim is a strong community minded person who loves to see people grow and succeed with their goals. Passionate about personal development and encouraging people to make the most out of any situation.
Tim love’s having a chat and creating positive relationships with the people he meets. Enjoys the outdoors, camping and playing sport. Tim has been playing football for 8 years and in this time, he has captained the team to two grand final wins. Tim is passionate about player development especially with the women’s program and coached the football club’s senior women to their first grand final win in 2021.
Tim will always encourage people to try new things and step out of their comfort zone if they are willing to. Tim mentions that he is “lucky to be involved in an organisation where I am able to spend time with different people and support them in reaching their goals. My goal is to have a positive impact on each person that I meet”.
Saskia Gilfoy
Mentor
Saskia is passionate about working with people in a warm, open and human
centered way. Saskia’s most recent role was as Residential House Coordinator in a school for young adults with diverse needs in the USA. This role saw her strengthen her values and skills in relationship building, creative thinking and approaches, patience, humour and commitment to open communication.
With over 8 years of experience in the field, Saskia is committed to enhancing the social, emotional, educational and physical wellbeing in people of all ages. Saskia values respect, humour, integrity, relationships and warmth and strives to incorporate these into her work. Experience has led her to recognise that when people are met consistently with these things, we are able to find confidence in who we are, pride in what we do, a discovery of our own potential and an overall healthier state of wellbeing.
While abroad, Saskia completed a Diploma in Inclusive Social Studies with a
concentration in Special Education, which she hopes to build upon and take further into her future. As a mother to a young boy with diverse needs, and knowing full well that at times we all (no matter who we are ) need a little help from our friends,
Saskia is committed to mentoring clients towards independence.
Bec
Mentor
Bec is a charismatic and easy going mentor who is empathetic and caring towards everyone. She is hard working, determined and has excellent people skills.
In her spare time, Bec loves anything ocean related – surfing, diving, snorkelling or boating. She spends lots of time in nature on hikes or camping or at the gym doing Pilates or strength training.
Experience with a multitude of people with different backgrounds and needs, Bec prides herself on being an excellent listener and communicator. She has experience working across many sectors, most recently as a sales manager on the east coast of Australia. She has also been a speaker for a mental health charity where she shared her own story for educational purposes and to break stigma.
Bec’s friends and family would say she is funny and kind and will always be there for someone. As a mentor, Bec hopes to develop meaningful relationships with her clients that create empowerment and support. She hopes she can bring as much joy to those she works with as they bring for her!
Basma
Mentor
As a support worker, I am passionate about helping and assisting others in reaching their goals and supporting them with their everyday tasks. I find fulfillment in guiding individuals toward their full potential.
Being a first-year psychology student, I am eager to apply the knowledge I am gaining to effectively support others. With seven years of experience in customer service, I have always been drawn to careers that involve working with others, empowering individuals to succeed, and feel good about themselves. This makes support work an ideal role for me to continue making a positive impact.
A significant aspect of my role involves assisting others in their everyday lives, and I take joy in helping them acquire the skills they need to lead fulfilling lives. If someone has a specific skill they want to acquire, I am committed to doing my best to guide them on their journey.
Tanya Kavina
Mentor
Tanya has completed her studies in Psychological Science and is currently studying her Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy. She is kind, genuine, caring and has a passion for helping others, whether that be helping people achieve their goals or being a listening ear.
Tanya loves musicals, jamming to music in the car, dancing, being in nature or at the beach, exploring new places, board games, and going to church.
While she is quite new to the mentoring world, she’s been able to display positive skills through her dance organisation as a leader and going into schools to dance and empower young school students.
Tanya is passionate about working with adolescence and young adults and help them make sense of the world we live in.
Bianca
Mentor
Bianca is new to the YCM family and has recently completed a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). Bianca also has extensive lived experience caring for family members with disabilities. Bianca is very domestic and is an absolute “whiz” in the kitchen and gets the chores done.
Bianca is an animal lover and spends most of her spare time playing with her puppy. She also enjoys crafting, painting, and singing. Bianca used to play basketball when in school and still enjoys shooting hoops when the weather is nice.
Bianca has expressed that she enjoys supporting people and seeing the importance of her job.
Naomi A
Mentor
Naomi is a friendly enthusiastic person who enjoys building connections and helping people reach their goals. Naomi is currently in her third year of a Bachelor degree in Primary Education. Naomi has 4 years of experience working in schools as an SSO (School Support Officer) and being a part of the OSHC team (Out Of School Hours Care).
Naomi loves sports and currently plays basketball. Naomi was given the opportunity to coach a basketball team which enhanced her love for helping and supporting people. Being a part of an NBL1 team has allowed Naomi to learn how to be a team player and keeping a positive attitude. As basketball is a team sport it has allowed to Naomi learn how to help others around her reach their goal, gain the best out of people and celebrate the small wins.
With Naomi’s experience, she is a young person who has delt with people of all ages and different interest, she has learnt how to find common ground and connect with students, teachers and parents, to make sure each individual’s goal is met. This skill has allowed Naomi to meet new people, creating many different relationships. Naomi’s hobbies include cooking, painting and photography and she loves getting out in nature.
Abuk Anyang
Mentor
Abuk is a hard-working individual who loves working with people. Her working background entails working with children and adults in various settings. She is a flexible learner and eager to learn new things. Abuk speaks four languages and therefore, gives her an advantage to have effective communication skills. Abuk has been working as a support worker for about four years in the community, disability sector and age care.
Abuk also has a volunteer assistant teacher role at Hope Valley-kids church ministry for three years. “It really makes me happy when I help and care for other people”. Working as a support worker means a lot to her because she is willing to help and encourage them to be independent.
When Abuk came to Australia from South Sudan, she did an English course at Adelaide tafe and a certificate in disability. She is also looking forward to continuing her career. She likes cooking, reading some story books, going out with her kids, and cleaning. Abuk really enjoys working with Your Choice Matters.
Alyssa Jones
Mentor
Alyssa is a friendly and bubbly mentor. She is the eldest of 3 and prides herself in being a supportive big sister to those around her in all aspects of her life. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Science and plans to do a Master of Secondary Teaching afterwards.
Alyssa comes from a sporting background, currently playing netball and basketball. She has 5 years of coaching experience and loves to help people develop not only in their sporting game but in their general life skills also. Alyssa enjoys meeting new people and building strong relationships.
She is currently living in student accommodation with 180 others where it is encouraged to regularly engage with all peers. This puts her in a position to connect with people from all different backgrounds with all different interests, and she makes the most of it on a daily basis.
In Alyssa’s spare time she enjoys going for a walk to grab a coffee or making her way through the hoards of unread books on her bookshelf. She also likes being creative, whether this is through her candle business or painting with friends.
Ruth Vigor
Mentor
Ruth has a Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, which provides critical training for working with a diverse range of clients that is focused on a ‘person-centred approach’. This training is essential as it means that she is adept at empowering clients to make positive decisions about their lives, taking into consideration each individual’s life experience, age, gender, culture, heritage, language, beliefs and identity. She understands the importance of flexible services that supports each individual’s wishes and priorities.
Ruth is very passionate about empowering clients to improve their living situation and emotional wellbeing that can make a real difference in their lives.
Ruth is originally from the United Kingdom and has a diverse range of skills and experience, including teaching vocational qualifications, which incorporated courses to empower individuals to improve their employability skills and gain confidence in the workforce. She has a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.
Laura Vine
Mentor
As a mentor I have a range of clients. I support people young and old with making good life choices and helping them actively participate in the community. We spend time going shopping, hanging out at the movies, going to church and getting our nails done. I assist them in developing life skills such as budgeting and developing their confidence and character. I also provide domestic assistance to those that struggle to do it on their own. I have also had a range of experience working with very complex and high needs clients. This experience includes working with a young lady with a rare neurological condition, working with a lady who has muscular dystrophy as well as working with a young teen who has autism.
My values are the things that I believe are important in the way I live and work. I am very reliable, I’m loyal, I have a high level of commitment, I am an open minded person, I’m honest and very efficient. My interests include going to the movies, arts and crafts, going to watch football and cricket, doing Pilates, travelling, reading and spending time with my children and family.
My skills include teamwork, communication, flexibility, patience, time management, problem solving and active listening.
Nick Wurm
Mentor
Nick comes with international experience, having lived in the United States for 4 years and a year in Spain pursuing his basketball dreams. Nick has a very fond passion for helping others in need, and really appreciates making time for people in need.
As Nick has stated, “I am extremely lucky to work with such fun, positive, and outgoing people, and it’s a pleasure to pass time with them.” Aside from playing, Nick also has a passion for coaching, something he wishes to do and continue to do in the future after playing.
Nick currently holds a Bachelor of Science, with his major in Psychology. He graduated from Dickinson State University in North Dakota.
When Nick has some free time, he thoroughly enjoys going for trail walks, watching movies or playing golf with his friends.
We are extremely happy to have Nick working for us, and we think he will continue to be a great asset to our team.
Anita Drage
Mentor
As a mentor Anita will strive to build a positive relationship with you and will work with closely with you to assist in making your goals become a reality. Anita has a strong belief in social justice matched with her beliefs in equality. She has extensive knowledge in community services and a personnel experience in various supports with mental health. Anita aspires to always do her absolute best in mentoring.
Manoj
Mentor
A seasoned support worker and aspiring mentor who’s ready to join our team and make a difference. With two years of industry experience under his belt, Manoj is a dynamic individual who thrives on new opportunities and challenges. He’s worked across various domains, from construction to sales, and has gained an invaluable understanding of people’s needs and aspirations.
When he’s not assisting those in need, Manoj pursues his passion for adventure and exploration. He loves discovering exciting new places, catching up with friends over coffee, and lending his talents to his local soccer team. He’s a well-rounded personality who believes in living life to the fullest.
For Manoj, helping people achieve their goals is more than just a job; it’s a calling. He believes in the power of education and mentorship to transform people’s lives and help them reach their true potential. As he says, “nothing brings me more joy than seeing people succeed and knowing that I played a part in their journey.”
Finally, Manoj’s philosophy is built on the foundation of trust and respect. He understands that building strong relationships with his clients is the key to success, and he takes pride in his ability to connect with people on a personal level. With Manoj on board, you can be sure that your team and clients are in safe hands.
Jessica Johnson
Mentor
Jessica is passionate about supporting clients with their choices and achieving their NDIS goals whilst being flexible to suit the client’s priorities and needs. Jessica has completed her Certificate lll and lV in Disability and has previously worked for organisations such as Caring Choice and Minda. This has given her valuable experience in supporting clients from a person-centred approach. She has worked extensively with a diverse range of clients in age, gender, identity and cultural background.
Jessica is driven by supporting clients in achieving their goal based activities whether that be daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning and personal care to life skills such as support with studies, employment or catching public transport.
Jessica is a vivacious, creative, empathetic and hard-working individual. She has completed a Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) through the University of South Australia in 2015. She has a keen interest in helping people interested in exploring their artistic pursuits and developing their art skills. Jessica is dedicated to empowering clients to make positive decisions in their life and develop their self-esteem.”
Dylan McIntosh
Mentor
Dylan is empathetic, caring, and loves a good chat and hearing people’s stories. Currently studying a Bachelor of Secondary Education at Uni SA as he has a passion for teaching and assisting in the development of Children and young people. However, Dylan love’s helping people in general, and making someone’s day means a lot to him.
Dylan has had extensive experience looking after racehorses which is a big passion and hobby, he credits this and sport to his personal development. Dylan use to enjoy playing football and other sports growing up, then went in to coaching junior football for his local club for six years. During this period Dylan was able to win a premiership with one of the groups and that is right at the top of his favourite sporting moments. During this time, Dylan had the pleasure of coaching children with ASD, which he enjoyed thoroughly.
Dylan love’s the AFL and NBA but enjoys talking about any sport, also enjoys being outdoors, and travelling and hopes to see more of the world every chance he gets.
Cassandra (Cassi) Wight
Mentor
Cassi has 8 plus years of experience working as an educator in childcare. During those 8 years she has also participated in babysitting for a wide range of ages and tutoring for primary school aged children.
Cassi absolutely loves animals and has a few of her own at home which she spends her free time with (a young kelpie, two cats and a carpet python).
She absolutely loves all outside activities such as camping, hikes, water activities (such as kayaking), kicking the soccer ball or football around and going down to the bowling alley! But she also loves to read a good book, have a go at different arts and crafts and often enjoys trying out new recipes in the kitchen!
Cassi is always willing to give her all into any new activities and will always do her best to make sure everyone around her is also having a good time too!
Ben Janssan
Mentor
Ben has lived in the United States for the past 5 years pursuing his basketball dreams. He started in the USA as a year 12 and then went on to play 2 years of Junior College in Olympia, Washington. He then was recruited and received a full scholarship to play at the Division 2 NCAA level for Lubbock Christian University in Lubbock, Texas. Having lived in different parts of the world, Ben has gained a wide spread knowledge, dealing with a diverse range of people.
Ben graduated from Lubbock Christian University with a Bachelors degree of Science in Exercise Science and Promotion in Health. Ben was awarded the Daryl Price Servant Heart award for showing attributes of a “servant’s heart” by helping students that were struggling, and putting others before himself. Ben has a desire and passion for helping others as much as possible and do so whilst having a fun time and expecting nothing in return.
Ben has coached younger athletes for 6 years now and finds enjoyment in this by giving back to the sport and helping the youth improve their skills and reach goals they never thought were possible.
He is excited for this opportunity as it enables Ben to meet new people and create friendships in a fun and fulfilling environment, much like coaching and being on a team. While here in Adelaide Ben will be playing at the NBL1 level for the Woodville Warriors.
Bens hobbies outside of basketball include hanging out with family, gaming, watching movies, exploring nature and playing golf.
Bronwyn
Mentor
Bronwyn is a caring and understanding person who has twelve years’ experience in assisting children and adults living with disabilities or struggling with their mental health. She enjoys helping people learn new skills, providing them with the appropriate resources to achieve their goals and build their confidence and belief in themselves.
In her spare time, she loves spending time with her family and friends, her dog and cat who grew up together as a puppy and kitten, supporting the Adelaide Crows men’s and women’s teams, going to the beach and her favourite foods are Italian and Mexican.
Natalie Scopacasa
Mentor
Natalie is currently studying a Diploma of Counselling with the AIPC, which gives her transferrable skills. She enjoys researching everything to gain further knowledge in self-development, health, relationships, cooking, budgeting, mindset, and personality types. She is interested in always learning from others and working with a range of different people. She has extensive customer service skills with all types of people which has taught her compassion, patience, and an understanding that each person requires tailored support.
She values reliability, consistently, balance, approaching life in a positive manner, living in alignment to your values, being efficient and always thinking of alternate ways of doing things. She is passionate about connecting with others and getting to know them individuality and hopefully creating a bond that can grow and focus on the client’s specific goals together.
Natalie loves being active and living a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys walks on the beach, playing with her 2 German Shepherds, playing sport – kickboxing and netball, going to the gym, being in nature, board games, shopping, reading, spirituality, cooking and gardening.
Natalie’s plans for the future are to be the best mother/wife/friend she can be, have her own counselling business, while inspiring others to reach their full potential and purpose while living in fulfillment. She believes everyone has the opportunity to live the life they enjoy.
Sam B
Mentor
Sam is an enthusiastic and easy going individual who comes from a sporting background of football and basketball. He has 6 years of coaching and umpiring experience with a love for helping others not only develop sport related skills but also life skills.
He is currently studying a Bachelor of Human Movement at the University of South Australia and plans to complete a Masters in Primary School Teaching.
Sam is originally from a small country town in Victoria called Horsham. In his spare time he enjoys getting outdoors, being hands on and creative, watching movies and spending time with friends or family
Sophie
Mentor
Sophie is a warm, bubbly, and adventurous person who loves to get outside of her comfort zone and encourage others to do the same, as she believes that’s where people can really thrive. Sophie loves to help people to reach their goals and has learnt a lot about goal setting through studying a Diploma of Counselling.
Sophie has around 2 years of experience working as a youth worker in residential care, helping youth of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Sophie takes a compassionate and empathetic approach in her work, she loves to meet new people, and is a massive foodie.
In her down time, Sophie loves to see family and friends, and spend time out in nature. Sophie’s biggest passions in life is travelling and live music so will always be up for an excuse to crank the music in the car and have sing along and dance for no reason.
Taylor de Zylva
Mentor
Taylor loves everything outdoors and nature. She enjoys going to the beach for walks/ swims with her 2 dogs, hiking, riding bikes, water skiing or roller skating. When she is not doing outside activities she likes to be creative with DIY projects around the house or other creative things such as sewing, arts&crafts, pottery and photography. Taylor’s family call her “hobbies” because she always has a new hobby or new obsession.
Taylor is coming from a hospitality back ground where she has worked in lots of different establishments such as cafes, bars and restaurants. Having worked in a variety of different places it has given her lots of experience in talking and communicating with people which is something she absolutely loves. It has also given her a chance to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Daniel
Mentor
Daniel is an enthusiastic and outgoing mentor who will give his all to help people grow and become the best version of themselves. An avid coffee lover, a sport enthusiast (and we mean he is lover of every sport.. name it and he knows something about it) and passionate, yet average karaoke singer.
Although new to mentoring, Daniel is no stranger to working with people of all ages and backgrounds. His kind and passionate nature makes him the perfect mentor and compatriot for anyone, no matter the age or gender.
A former cafe owner, Daniel has spent many years building long lasting relationships with a plethora of different people. Previous to owning a cafe, Daniel also owned a retail store, creating and designing clothes. With a wealth of experience in coaching as well, Daniel has coached; AusKick, U7’s Football, Year 8/9 Football and a Women’s Football Teams.
As a mentor, Daniel prides himself on being someone who will be there for you, to guide you through any of life’s ups and downs. You can count on Daniel being someone that’ll listen to you, he will always have time for everyone. No challenge is too big or too small for Daniel to help you with.
In his spare time Daniel is always doing something hands on or outdoors. Whether that is cooking, attempting to be a handyman, frolicking around in the garden, taking his fluffy German Shepard for a walk or out with mates for a coffee.
Tom V
Mentor
Tom’s is a newer member for now 3-4mths being with us. He’s a young adult new to the mentoring and is loving it. He’s a confident and social individual who prides himself on being able to use his communication skills to manage any situation that may arise with his clients. Tom is a genuine caring role model for all his clients and enjoys kicking goals with his clients.
Tom’s a sportsman and is current playing basketball at an NBL1 level. He uses the skills from basketball in regards to working in a team environment to help comfort those around him and still gets the best from all his clients.
In Tom’s spare times he’s either on a basketball court playing or working out or in the gym. Tom also likes the outdoors, exploring and experiencing new things.
Myah
Mentor
Myah is a kind and empathic young women with a strong drive to help others, making her a passionate mentor highly focused on the wellbeing and fun of her clients.
Though coming from a background in finances, she has long been deeply interested in matters of social work, psychology and counselling, and is set to study both in the coming years at university.
More personally, she is a dedicated animal lover, and a fanatic for the arts and music. In her spare time you’ll find her drawing, going out for long walks in nature, or watching her favourite media. Above all else, however, she delights in expanding her horizons by exploring the interests and ideas of others.
Myah prides herself in being an excellent listener and communicator; she hopes to leave people with a sense of connection. With a keen understanding that each person is unique in their needs and preferences, she is eager to adapt to those of any client she meets, fostering a trusting and open environment in which to develop meaningful relationships that empower and support.
Excited to meet new clients in her role at YCM, she looks forward to her time supporting whosoever comes to work with her.
Amy J
Mentor
Amy is an enthusiastic and driven person who is passionate about helping others achieve their goals and ambitions in their everyday life no matter how big or small. She believes to get the most out of a goal it takes intention, planning and perseverance which she is more than happy to work with her clients to achieve. She comes from a vast background in Dance and Dance teaching which she absolutely loves.
Her interest in health and fitness expands to more than the physical she also loves learning about nutrition and cooking, mental wellbeing, and social and community interaction and involvement. She is keen to explore and expand upon client’s knowledge and exposure to hobbies, talents and areas of interest and intrigue. Amy has always had an interest in helping, teaching, and providing for others and allowing them to grow.
Amy is eager to assist people in their everyday living while creating a trusting and caring relationship. She takes pride in empowering and uplifting others to feel and become the happiest versions of themselves in helping anyway she can.
Amy is a lively, reliable, empathetic, and understanding person who loves being creative and thinking outside the box. She loves being active, out in nature, drawing, arts and crafts, and anything hands on.
Darin
Mentor
Hi, my name is Darin.
I have worked as a chef in many different locations over the last 30 years including, restaurants, large scale commercial catering and defence force catering.
However, for the last 6 years I have worked at DCP with young people in residential care.
My strengths in supporting you range from cooking and helping prepare daily meals, domestic chores, budgeting and planning your weekly shop/shopping together, assistance with appointments and basic multimedia support.
My hobbies/likes include bush walks and BBQ’s, relaxing on a jetty fishing, drives and listening to music and sports like AFL, Cricket, and car racing.
My dislikes are things I hold myself to work against in my daily life, such as neglect, violence, and un-supported people. As well as being late. Time management is very important to me.
I am someone who loves listening to people’s life experiences. I believe I can always learn something new from everyone I meet.
I’m passionate about providing support and lending a listening ear, as your voice matters.
Leanne Coxall
Mentor
Leanne comes to YCM with over 10 years’ experience in disability support, and completing workshops based on the principles of Social Role Valorisation (SRV).
Her working background also includes retail sales, warehouse work, she was a passionate union delegate & a small business owner for more than 10 years, all of which give her a diverse experience in conflict resolution, teamwork, negotiation & work ethic.
Leanne is currently studying Certificate lll in Horticulture & has a keen interest in plants, gardening & being outdoors. She also enjoys sport, especially basketball, cricket, soccer & football. She is also a massive animal lover.
Leanne is a hard worker, a keen listener & a very caring person & will strive to make your time together productive & enjoyable. She also enjoys cooking & cleaning so if you need help in that area, please don’t be shy to ask.
Bailey Puvogel
Mentor
Bailey is one of the newest members of the team. He thrives on bettering himself and prides himself on developing a strong relationship with his clients. This strong relationship ensures his time with clients is always enjoyable and worthwhile.
Bailey loves sport and has participated in many different sporting codes. He uses his ability to persist and set goals in his work environment to ensure quality outcomes for his clients. Communication is another aspect that is extremely noticeable & valuable when Bailey is with his clients.
Being able to adapt to every client’s needs and qualities allows a smooth transition in client to mentor development. Clients love working with Bailey because they know he will be supportive & reliable through all they encounter as a team.
Lauren Prowse
Mentor
Lauren is currently studying Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, and completing a placement at a Complex Needs Clinic.
Lauren has always been passionate about working with children and young people and has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a mentor and is currently volunteering with The Smith Family at Learning Club. Lauren is excited to work as a Mentor, as she is very empathetic and is passionate about helping people.
Prior to commencing her study Lauren worked in Conveyancing for 14 years, where she was able to establish strong relationships with clients and developed exceptional organisational skills, which she also applies to her role as Mentor. Lauren is friendly and happy and enjoys helping clients to develop their own life skills.
Isabella Bouyessis (Bella)
Mentor
Bella is a warm natured, passionate and creative individual who shares a love for natural health, entrepreneurship and going above and beyond to care for others. She is currently in the final semester of her studies, soon to be obtaining degrees in Health Science at the University of South Australia and Complementary Medicine at Endeavour College of Natural health. Bella hopes to further her learning in the health care field as a midwife and in clinical nutrition.
Upon completion of her Cert III in Individual Support, Bella’s experience blossomed through her role as a personal carer in an aged care/residential facility where she worked closely with residents and their families who have Dementia or in end of life/palliative care. She slowly transitioned into the Disability field as a support worker and has loved every moment of her work since. She recently gained some valuable experience through her university placement which was held at a specialist school for children and young adults with a disability. It involved engaging students in a sports/recreational program to help students achieve their individual goals and aspirations through a variety of sporting activities.
In her spare time she enjoys being a book worm, keeping active at the gym, vegan beauty, hair and skin care and applying her creativity through passion projects and traditional cooking, especially recreating her late Nonna’s delicious meals. She also developed a new found love for solo traveling and pushing herself to move out of her comfort zone. Bella remains focused and always up for a challenge.
She takes pride in supporting participants in a kindhearted manner to help find ways they can achieve their personal goals. In taking the time to learn about those she supports and cares about, she thrives on being able to help push start their goals into action.
Jade
Mentor
Empathy and a listening ear are qualities that define me. I truly believe that understanding and compassion are at the core of providing the best care and support for any individual. I’m dedicated to going the extra mile to ensure that each person I assist feels heard and valued.
As I step into this new role, I bring a unique blend of skills and passions. I have a deep-rooted passion for all things computers, which has led me to pursue a Certificate 3 in IT. My background in customer service has equipped me with valuable experience in understanding people’s wants and needs. Beyond my professional pursuits, I’m an avid gamer. Gaming has not only been a source of entertainment for me but has cultivated problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively.
I am looking forward to making a positive impact on the lives of those I’ll be supporting. I am committed to helping individuals with disabilities live their best lives.
Erin
Mentor
Erin is a friendly bubbly mentor from the Adelaide hills.
Erin enjoys spending time with her kelpie “Custard” and loves spending time outdoors exercising and exploring.
Erin grew up on property in the hills with lots of animals which sparked her love for nature.
In Erins spare time she likes reading and creative activities such a collaging and colouring in.
Erin has over 5 years’ experience spread out between jobs such as hospitality, retail and support work which has helped her create great interpersonal skills and experience to help clients reach any goals and needs.
Maddy
Mentor
Maddy is a bubbly and energetic person that loves helping people grow and find something to smile about!
She grew up on a sheep station with her dad riding motorbikes and horse’s half her childhood whilst the other half was spent with her Mum in the country town of Kadina where they even opened their own café for a year.
Maddy then moved to Adelaide and has worked in budgeting, beauty, fashion and now support work. Throughout the many different roles she has experienced, she’s found her favourite thing about all of them is the interaction with the person she’s supporting. Maddy has found her passion through helping people and encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves.
In her free time she likes to go on little adventures such as walks in nature, drives to the beach, going to museums, painting, sewing clothes, and spending time with her family and pets. She also loves to sing even if it might be out of tune and dance like nobody is watching!
Ruby
Mentor
Ruby is a friendly, compassionate, and organised individual with an enthusiasm for meaningful connections and extending a supportive hand. Currently, Ruby is studying a bachelor of physiotherapy (honours) at the University of South Australia and aspires to make a meaningful impact in the fields of rehabilitation and paediatrics. Ruby loves sport, playing netball for over 15 years and, for the past three years, has also excelled in coaching across both junior and senior teams. Through commitment and enjoyment. Her journey through the physiotherapy program and coaching has kindled a profound desire to empower individuals to attain their fullest potential.
Ruby firmly believes that venturing beyond one’s comfort zone is a pivotal aspect of personal growth and learning. Ruby enjoys helping people develop skills in all aspects including cooking, cleaning, study or trying a new hobby. Drawing from her prior experiences in the hospitality and retail sectors, Ruby transitioned into a role at a gym, advocating for the significance of recovery and self-care. Her joy in educating and supporting others during this period has sparked her interest of mentoring as a potential path forward.
Talah
Mentor
Talah is a friendly and bubbly personality; she fosters a positive and nurturing environment to the people around her. Talah’s mentoring style is characterized by patience, empathy and a genuine desire to see people happy and thriving.
She comes from a small hobby farm where she enjoyed looking after all the animals and discovering countryside activities. Talah also has a love for sport and has an extensive background in it. She is currently playing Football and Touch Footy and has 7 years’ experience coaching. She loves connecting and building relationships with people, which allows her to enjoy her own hobbies with others as well as discover new ones. Some of her hobbies include boardgames, camping, hikes, arts and crafts, and playing with her pets. She is always willing to give it her all and try new things.
Matt Dyda
Mentor
Matt is an energetic, friendly, and driven individual who enjoys playing and watching sports. He is the youngest of four children and grew up playing Aussie rules football and enjoys watching the AFL with his family. He loves being outdoors, going to the beach, gardening, hiking, bike riding, jogging, swimming, playing any and every sport (although not always very well). Matt also has a background in the building industry having completed a cabinet-making apprenticeship and enjoys DIY projects around the house.
He has 7 years of experience as an SSO (School Support Officer) and has completed his Certificate IV in disability which has given him a great depth of knowledge and experience that he can use when supporting clients. Matt is a dedicated hard worker who loves helping others and focuses on a client-centered approach and on making everyday fun.
In his spare time, he likes to exercise, read books, spend time with his two boys, cook, watch movies, and catch up with friends. Matt is always up for a laugh and fun time but can also be a great listener who wants to help people be the best they can be.