Which program/s are you involved in, and what do they aim to do for the community?  

I’m a Development Coach with Thrive Hub Seymour. Our hub acts as a central resource point, connecting community members with a wide range of supports so they can access the right help at the right time.

Each Thrive Hub is shaped by the needs of its local community. We work closely with industry experts, training providers, and people with lived experience to create practical employment and education pathways. This collaborative approach strengthens economic and social inclusion, helping people move toward meaningful employment and building a more resilient community overall.

How did you become interested in Community Programs? What were you doing before this? 

I became interested in Community Programs through my background in retail, where I consistently used a person-centred approach. I learned that when you focus on the individual rather than the sale, people feel heard, build trust, and engage more meaningfully. That experience showed me the power of genuinely understanding people’s needs — which naturally led me toward community-focused work.

How do you think a Community Program Directory makes a difference for people in Seymour?

A Community Program Directory makes a real difference in Seymour by giving people easy access to local services and support. It brings together a wide range of information in one place, empowering the community, strengthening advocacy, and connecting people with organisations that work to reduce poverty.

BSL and its partners meet people where they are, offering support locally so residents don’t need to travel to Melbourne or surrounding suburbs to find the help they need.