MEET THE POSSE

Meet Nigal, our CEO and Founder, a passionate advocate for children and adults with disabilities and a strong voice for inclusion, equity, and social justice. With a background in education and decades of experience across disability, mental health, and community services, Nigal is also a dedicated father and respected community leader.

Nigal holds a Bachelor of Primary Education and has completed postgraduate studies in Leadership, Positive Psychology, and International Education. His leadership journey includes senior roles within special education settings, where he has consistently championed inclusive practices and created environments where individuals from marginalised communities can thrive.

Hi, I’m Jessica, a Registered Nurse with over eight years of experience, leading with compassion, humour, and a genuine love for people. I have lived and worked in Australia for the past sixteen years and I am a proud mum to a beautiful daughter, who keeps me grounded and motivated.

Nursing runs deep in my family through a strong legacy in nursing and aged care, which inspired my commitment to giving back and making a positive difference in people’s health and everyday lives.

I hold an MBA, a Master of Public Health, a Bachelor of Nursing, a Bachelor of Public Administration, and a Certificate IV in Allied Health, allowing me to combine strong clinical knowledge with a broad, person-centred approach. I believe the best care is provided on a person’s own terms. The people I support constantly teach me, challenge my thinking, and push me to grow so I can continue providing better, more thoughtful care.

Outside of work, I enjoy picnics, movie nights, rewatching The Golden Girls, and proudly embracing my role as a self-proclaimed Witcher nerd. My goal is simple to create a safe, respectful, and supportive space where people feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for.

A triple gold medalist representing Australia in dragon boating, Tasha brings the same focus, determination, resilience, and commitment to excellence into her professional practice. She is passionate about helping individuals, families, support teams, and practitioners achieve meaningful outcomes and reach their SMART goals with confidence, purpose, and sustainable success. The dedication that drives her success on the international stage is reflected in her unwavering commitment to creating positive change in the lives of those she supports.

Tasha is an Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner, National Team Leader, Trauma-Informed Coach, and accredited National Clinical Supervisor with more than 15 years of international experience supporting people with disabilities, their families, and support networks. Her work is grounded in person-centred, evidence-based, and trauma-informed practice, with a strong focus on building capacity, promoting independence, and improving quality of life.

With extensive experience in behaviour change, Tasha understands the complexities of behaviours of concern, the barriers that can impact progress, and the challenges often associated with implementing meaningful change. Rather than working for people, she works alongside them—partnering collaboratively with participants, families, support workers, and organisations to identify strengths, overcome obstacles, and create practical, achievable solutions.

Known for her approachable, compassionate, and empowering style, Tasha is committed to helping people move from where they are today to where they want to be tomorrow.

Tash loves and lives by her mantra: Support. Empower. Achieve.

Hi! I’m Wade, an Occupational Therapist driven by a passion for helping people achieve their goals and unlock their full potential. As a proud Uni SC alumni and a solid foundation of many years of Support Work, I have gained a deep understanding of the NDIS and the importance of client-centered care. My areas of expertise include stroke rehabilitation, paediatric neurodivergence, assistive technology prescription, and NDIS advocacy. I take pride in guiding clients through every stage of their journey, from initial diagnosis to ongoing growth, crafting personalized solutions that celebrate their strengths and individuality. Outside of work, I bring a unique perspective to therapy, shaped by my experiences as a high-level athlete, cabinetmaker, and touring musician. These roles have taught me creativity, adaptability, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving that enriches my practice. When I’m not working, you’ll find me on the bowling green, proudly representing the Helensvale Hawks. Whether on the green or in my professional life, I value teamwork, dedication, and a commitment to continual growth - qualities I strive to bring to the lives of the clients and families I support.

Hi, I’m Anshu!
I’m an Occupational Therapist with over 24 years of experience.
I have a special passion for working with kids, young people and adults with:
• Complex disabilities
• ASD
• Developmental delays
• Learning difficulties
• Complex medical conditions in both acute and community settings
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many families, and I understand how important it is to have the right support. My goal is to make a real difference in the lives of my clients and their families by working together. Outside of work, I’m a proud mum to two wonderful kids and a cheeky cavoodle. I love unwinding by the beach, taking nature walks, and spending time with my family and friends.

I’m an Occupational Therapist originally from the U.S., now living in Australia for the past six years. I’ve worked across mental health, Inpatient hospital rehab, community rehab, and workplace rehab, helping people get back to what matters - whether that’s returning to work, building independence, returning home safely, or just handling life when it gets messy. I’m all about practical, person-centred support that actually works in the real world.

Outside of being an OT, I’m either at the gym, editing videos, gaming, or out with my camera exploring new spots. I love travel, I’m always chasing weird and interesting food, and I’m big on finding little ways to make life feel like an adventure.

Hi, I’m Hannah! I’m an Occupational Therapist who is passionate about helping people build independence, confidence, and meaningful routines in their everyday lives. I enjoy working closely with participants and their families to understand what’s important to them and to create practical, achievable supports that fit real life.

I take a person-centred, strengths-based approach to therapy and value collaboration with participants, families, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure supports are aligned with what truly matters to each individual.

Outside of work, I love spending time at the beach, going to the gym, and getting creative through pottery in my tiny home studio! These interests keep me grounded and balanced, and reflect my belief in the importance of wellbeing, movement, and meaningful occupations in everyday life.

Kayleen is an Occupational Therapist with over 19 years’ experience in adults and paediatrics. She has worked in a variety of settings including accident and emergency, intensive care units, rehabilitation wards, outpatient clinics, community, telehealth, medicolegal and NDIS.

Kayleen has specialist skills in functional assessments, physical rehabilitation, report writing and working with catastrophic injuries. She enjoys working with people of all ages and with all abilities.

Hi, I’m Kyle, and I’m a Therapy Assistant here at Engage U. I’m currently studying Occupational Therapy at SCU and have over a decade of experience as a support worker, working with people of all ages and abilities. Through this work I have learnt that even the smallest outcomes, lead to achieving greater goals tomorrow. I am passionate about promoting independence, wellbeing, and meaningful participation for the people I support. Drawing on my background, I feel I bring a practical, hands-on approach to learning and client support and has given me a deep understanding of the diverse needs of individuals across the lifespan. My focus now is building on that foundation through education and higher learning so I can continue to develop as a clinician who can combine theory with real-world experience to deliver high-quality, person-centered care. Outside of work and study, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, bike riding, camping, and travelling. These experiences keep me grounded, active, and open to new perspectives. I also enjoy renovation projects, which let me channel creativity and problem-solving skills - strengths I use in both my personal life and professional practice.

Hi, I’m Aimee. I’m originally from North Queensland and am currently a third-year Occupational Therapy student, alongside working as a Support Worker. I have over 10 years of experience as an MST Therapist, which has given me a strong foundation in working alongside people, building meaningful relationships, and supporting individuals and families through a range of challenges and life stages.

Through my work and OT studies, I have developed a strong passion for supporting people of all ages to have greater autonomy, choice, and meaningful participation in their everyday lives. I believe everyone has their own strengths, interests, values, and goals, and that support should be built around what is meaningful to the individual rather than simply focusing on what they cannot do.

I take a person-centred, strengths-based approach, supporting people to discover what matters to them and work towards greater autonomy and meaningful participation. Life should be bright, so I love helping people find their “true north” and believe that when people connect with what they are passionate about, new possibilities can open.

Outside of work and study, I love spending time with my dog, being at the beach, swimming, hiking, and painting. I have been a volunteer surf lifesaver for over 12 years and I love it! I also value quiet downtime at home and recharging in natural surroundings.

Hi, I’m Renay. I hold a Bachelor of Counselling and am a Level 2 registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

If there is one thing that probably sums up the way I approach counselling and life, it is that I am endlessly curious about people. I genuinely love understanding what makes us who we are, why we respond to life the way we do, and the stories and experiences that have shaped how we see ourselves and the world.

My approach is person-centred and trauma-informed, but underneath the professional language is a pretty simple belief: I believe in the goodness of people.

I don’t believe any of us were designed to fit neatly into boxes. A diagnosis, behaviour, difficult chapter or struggle can tell us something about a person, but it can never tell us everything about them. I believe our lived experiences create their own kind of wisdom, and I try to meet the person in front of me with curiosity about what they already know about themselves, even when they might have temporarily lost sight of it.

My own life has been an important teacher alongside my formal education. It has taught me that humans are complex, that healing and growth are rarely linear, and that sometimes having another person genuinely believe there is something more possible for you can help you begin to believe it too.

Outside of counselling, my world revolves largely around my family, our daughter Willow, our horses and spending as much time outdoors as I can. I’m someone who loves deep conversations, probably asks more questions than most people, and is fascinated by all the different ways we make meaning from being human.

Hi, I’m Camilla! With qualifications in education (former primary school and special ed teacher), human services, and mental health, I’ve spent the past 20 years supporting young people and families across schools and community settings. My experience spans youth work, disability support, family support, teaching, positive behaviour support, and social group facilitation.
I’m passionate about helping people overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
I offer a range of supports:
• Zones Of Regulation Training
• Holiday Programs
• Intake And Assessments
• Group Programs
• Tutoring
• Behaviour Management Support
• Social Development
• Social Groups
• With Both In-Clinic and Mobile Support Options
Outside of work, I love connecting with people, embracing new challenges, and finding creative ways to make a difference.

Hi, I’m Aaron - a Speech Pathologist who loves helping people say what matters most to them. I work with school-aged kids, teens and adults. Whether it’s making friends, prepping for a job interview, filling out forms or enjoying a safe, relaxed meal, I focus on the real-life moments where good communication (or safe swallowing) counts. Over the past 8 years I’ve supported a wide mix of clients, including:
• Autistic teenagers and adults
• People who stutter or have voice challenges
• Adults recovering speech or language after stroke or brain injury (aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria)
• Children building clear speech and early literacy skills
• Anyone needing help with swallowing and mealtime management

I’m trained in PROMPT, LSVT LOUD, Speak Out, ADOS assessment, and several social-skills programs such as Secret Agent Society and Cool Conversations. My work with NDIS participants has shown me how telehealth can break down barriers and bring therapy to people wherever they are. I hold a Master of Speech Pathology (2017) and extra study in health economics that keeps me thinking about fair, accessible services for all. Outside work you’ll find me: strumming my guitar, playing chess or video games, in a sauna or ice bath, and exploring all the beautiful waterfalls and beaches around the Sunshine Coast with my mostly well-behaved dog.

Hi, I'm Kobi - A dedicated and passionate personal trainer and exercise physiologist with over 15 years of experience in high-level rugby league. I have a degree in Sport and Exercise Science from Southern Cross University and bring a deep understanding of athletic performance and sports science to practice.
For the past 10 years, I have successfully operated my own personal training business, achieving real-world results through tailored fitness programs. As a certified Level 1 Strength and Conditioning Coach, I offer a holistic approach to fitness and athletic development. I enjoy working with different-abled kids to adults, providing compassionate, customized training to help them reach their full potential.
It is my mission to unlock strength, confidence, and a love for physical activity in every person.

Hi! I’m Jesse McKenzie, an Exercise Professional with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science and a passion for empowering kids of all abilities through movement. Recognized for academic excellence in 2022 and 2023, I’m currently pursuing a Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology at ACU, with a focus on improving the lives of children with disabilities through holistic health care. My experience spans NDIS clients, youth, older adults, and high-performance athletes, specializing in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, injury prevention, and overall wellness. In addition to private practice, I work as a Performance Evaluator and a Strength and Conditioning Coach for HeavyConditioning, blending expertise with a hands-on, supportive approach. A sports enthusiast, I enjoy rugby, volleyball, touch, golf, and basketball - bringing this love of activity into my work to create fun, engaging environments. Known for my friendly and professional style, I’m dedicated to helping every child build confidence, develop skills, and discover the joy of movement.

Alex has been a mental health support worker for over two years, earning the trust and admiration of all her participants through her calm, gentle, and caring nature.

She has successfully supported individuals in their recovery journeys, helping them achieve personal goals and improve their well-being.

With a Certificate III in Community Services and currently completing her Certificate IV in Mental Health, Alex combines her knowledge with a compassionate, fun, and energetic approach.

Her commitment to creating a warm, positive, and welcoming environment allows those she supports to feel safe, valued, and empowered to grow.

Hi, I’m Callan. I’m a Support Worker, and a proud dad who loves helping people build strength, confidence, and independence.

I served in the Army and was deployed to the Middle East, which taught me discipline, resilience, and how to stay calm under pressure - lessons I bring to every client I work with. As a support worker, I enjoy helping people reach their goals, whether it’s building strength, improving mobility, or just feeling more capable in their everyday lives.

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me spending time with my son, hitting the gym, or training in boxing - staying active is just part of who I am. I aim to bring patience, support, and a down-to-earth approach to every session, helping people feel empowered every step of the way.

Hey there! I’m Craig, a Support Worker with a country heart and a passion for making a difference.

Living in beautiful Dayboro, I bring a fun, non-judgmental, and down-to-earth approach to my work, always striving to create meaningful change for the people I support. I believe in keeping things real - being easy to talk to, meeting people where they’re at, and helping them navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

Outside of work, you’ll find me exploring the great outdoors - camping, gardening, and capturing moments through my love of photography. I’m also a bit of a tech enthusiast and a huge animal lover. Whether it’s getting my hands dirty in the garden or embracing a new adventure, I bring that same energy and curiosity into everything I do.

I’m all about creating positive, lasting change and supporting people in ways that truly matter. Looking forward to making a difference, one step at a time!

Hi! I’m Cody, a Support Worker and I’ve truly found my calling in helping people live the lives they deserve. Before moving into this role, I served in the Australian Defence Force as a Fitter Armourer where I developed resilience, discipline, and a strong sense of service. For almost three years now, I have been working within the NDIS, supporting people with a wide range of challenges including autism spectrum disorder and intellectual impairments.

People often describe me as a gentle giant, caring, approachable, and someone who builds rapport quickly. I love creating meaningful connections, whether that is running alongside clients, supporting them through their daily goals, or helping them discover their strengths and independence. I especially enjoy going roller skating or ice skating with clients and who knows, maybe one day I will even become a figure skater.

I call Aspley home where I live with my beautiful partner Jordan. Outside of work, I keep active through Brazilian jiu jitsu and weight lifting which keeps me grounded and focused. In everything I do, I bring a mix of strength and gentleness to ensure that every client I support feels valued, respected, and empowered on their journey.

Hi, I'm Pete. I bring a diverse professional background that includes extensive experience in the construction industry, tertiary qualifications, and practical expertise in disability support.

My construction and technical background have equipped me with strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a hands-on approach to supporting people in achieving their goals. Prior to my role in disability support, I worked as a Disability Technical Adviser and in this role, I contributed to improving accessibility outcomes across the community. Throughout my career, I have developed a practical understanding of accessibility, mobility, and the challenges that individuals may face in their daily lives.

Outside of work, I have a lifelong passion for horses and currently own three horses of my own. Looking to the future, I am interested in exploring opportunities to incorporate equine-assisted therapy and horse-related activities into disability support, recognizing the many physical, emotional, and social benefits these experiences can provide.

My approach to support is guided by strong ethical values, respect, empathy, and a commitment to person-centered care. I work collaboratively with participants, families, and support networks to empower individuals, build confidence, develop skills, and help people achieve their personal goals and aspirations. I take pride in being reliable, approachable, and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the people I support.

Hi, I'm Leanne. I have built a diverse and people focused career that has naturally led me into support work. I began my working life as a dental nurse for 12 years, where I developed strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to support people in vulnerable situations. After starting my family, I successfully ran my own business for over a decade, allowing me to balance work with raising my two sons. I later moved into practice management in a dental clinic and eventually established my own bookkeeping business, strengthening my organisational and problem-solving skills.

Over time I realised that my true passion lies in working closely with people and making a meaningful difference in their daily lives. This inspired my transition into support work, where I bring patience, reliability, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping others achieve their goals.

Hi I’m Janelle! I am a dedicated support worker and mum of two teenagers, bringing both professional experience and real world understanding to my work. With lived and professional experience supporting individuals with ASD and ADHD, I am deeply passionate about helping people feel seen, understood and empowered.

I’m naturally a people-person, enjoy building meaningful connections and have a genuine curiosity about how different individuals think, feel and experience the world. I am known for being compassionate, empathetic and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment for those around me.

Alongside my support work, I have a strong background in animal and equine care. I hold a Degree in Animal Science, majoring in Equine Health, Nutrition, Physiology and Rehabilitation. I believe animals - especially horses - have a powerful impact on emotional regulation, confidence and awareness of body language and energy. With this in mind, I love to help others experience the positive outcomes of equine interactions.

Living in Dayboro and loving all things country, I share my life with my 18 year old Arabian horse Zac, who has a friendly, gentle and calming presence. Zac loves spending time with human friends! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my animals, horse riding, camping, 4WDing and making memories with family and friends.

My name is Noreen and I am a dedicated Support Worker with a genuine passion for helping others, particularly elderly individuals and children. I bring over 30 years of experience in the film and television industry as a makeup and special effects artist and am also a qualified hairdresser.

The attention to detail, creativity, and empathy developed through my work in the film industry and as a hairdresser translate seamlessly into caregiving, allowing me to provide personalised care, foster trust, and ensure comfort and well-being for those I support.

In my personal life, I love cooking at home, lawn bowling, and engaging in gentle outdoor exercises such as walking, swimming, and bike riding. I also have a deep love for animals and share my home with a dog, who is disabled, and a cat.

Hi, I’m Taylor - a Support Worker, Army veteran, and proud husband and dad. I served nearly a decade in the Australian Army, including deployment to the Middle East, where I developed strong discipline, resilience, leadership, and the ability to stay calm under pressure - qualities I bring into my work every day.

I’m passionate about helping people build confidence, independence, and real-life capability. I also coach junior rugby league, focusing on teamwork, respect, and personal growth both on and off the field. Outside of work, I spend my time with my wife and sons - riding dirt bikes, working on cars, getting outdoors, and making the most of family weekends.

What I bring as a Support Worker:
• Emotional support & grounding
• Everyday living support
• Practical, hands-on skill building
• Gentle motivation & accountability
• Companionship & genuine conversation
• A calm, reliable presence
• A lived-experience approach that meets people where they’re at

My goal is simple: to provide steady, practical support that helps each person feel respected, capable, and confident in their own way.

I have previously been a Primary School Teacher and Physical Education Specialist with Education Queensland for over 35 years working both in Australia and in the UK. Whilst abroad I also worked as a Marketing Executive in the field of Business Conferences, Exhibitions and Reports and in recent times I have worked in NDIS support.

In my spare time I enjoy live music performances, watching the NRL and Cricket and anything Sci-Fi. I am a strong advocate for equality, inclusion and social justice and throughout my career have worked with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds in a multitude of settings. My core belief in life is that everyone is capable of succeeding if given the chance and the support they require.

I bring a diverse background across education, business, and workforce development into my work in the NDIS space. With experience as a teacher, HR/recruitment advisor, and business owner, I have developed strong skills in understanding people, building relationships, and supporting individuals to navigate complex challenges.

In my current role delivering capacity building supports, I work closely with young people with autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability. I focus on emotional regulation, developing structure and routines, and building practical coping strategies that support greater independence and day-to-day stability.

I take a calm, person-centred approach and am particularly interested in understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviour. I am committed to Positive Behaviour Support principles, including reducing restrictive practices, promoting skill development, and improving quality of life outcomes.

I am committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred supports aligned with Positive Behaviour Support principles, with a strong focus on continuous learning and best practice.

Outside of work, I enjoy staying active and spending time outdoors, with interests including bushwalking, exploring out-of-the-way places and towns, and camping.

Hey there! I’m Elise. I’m a friendly, easy-going Support Worker who enjoys getting to know people and helping them make the most of each day. I believe the best support comes from building strong relationships and creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves.

I have a Bachelor of Psychological Science and enjoy working alongside people to achieve their goals, try new things, and build confidence in everyday life. Whether that’s getting out into the community, developing new skills, attending appointments, or simply having someone in your corner, I’m there to provide support that suits your needs and interests.

Outside of work, I’m a huge animal lover and spend most of my free time with my dog, Cosmo, who keeps life entertaining. I also enjoy cooking, exploring new places, and finding new experiences to share with others.

I love celebrating the little wins, encouraging people to step outside their comfort zone when they’re ready, and helping make everyday life a little easier and more enjoyable. At the end of the day, I believe support should feel comfortable, enjoyable, and tailored to the person - with plenty of laughs along the way.

Hi, I’m Taylah! I hold a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability and Ageing) and currently work in childcare while studying my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

I have worked with disability clients for the past four years, which has given me valuable experience in providing compassionate, person-centred care and building strong, trusting relationships. I am passionate about supporting people to live independently, achieve their goals, and feel valued and respected.

I am a kind, compassionate, and reliable person who genuinely loves helping others and making a positive difference in their lives. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going to the beach and exploring new places.

I look forward to supporting participants to achieve their goals while promoting dignity, choice, and independence.

Hi, I’m a dedicated and compassionate support worker who is passionate about helping people live independently, achieve their goals, and enjoy meaningful experiences in their community.

I’m married and the proud father of five children, which has given me a strong appreciation for patience, responsibility, communication, and supporting people from all walks of life. Family is at the centre of who I am, and I bring those same values of kindness, respect, and reliability into my work every day.

I enjoy building genuine, trusting relationships with participants and believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, encouraged to reach their potential, and supported in a way that reflects their individual needs and choices.

I take pride in being approachable, dependable, and adaptable, and I understand the importance of listening, maintaining confidentiality, and working collaboratively with participants, families, and the wider support team. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of the people I support by helping them build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy greater independence.

Hi, I’m Jacquie!

I’ve always been the person friends and family call when they need a hand, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m loyal to the people in my life, and once I’m in your corner, I stay there. Helping someone out, even in a small way, is one of my favourite feelings, and that’s a big part of why I love this work.

I’m a hard worker and I take my role seriously, because the people I support deserve someone dedicated who turns up and follows through. I also like to bring a bit of fun and creativity to the day. If something feels like a chore, I’ll try to make it more enjoyable, whether that’s turning it into a game or coming up with a new idea together. I know how much a routine helps, so I keep things structured and steady, and you’ll always know what’s coming next.

I try to be friendly and patient with everyone, and to accept people exactly as they are. I meet everyone where they’re at, with no pressure and no judgement, and I take a neuro-affirming approach in everything I do.

I especially love working with kids and young people. We usually find something in common pretty quickly, and gaming tends to help!

Outside of work, I’m usually gaming or into anything to do with racing cars. That’s the one place my patience goes out the window, so I’m told! I’m always happy to have a chat about either.