Peer Mentors
Peer Mentor Team
Molly
Molly is working towards completing her Bachelor of Social Work, with graduation expected in 2025. She is deeply committed to values such as honesty, respect, and living authentically. In her free time, Molly enjoys beach walks, pilates, cooking, and traveling. With 8 years of experience in the travel industry, she has also traveled extensively herself. Molly is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program, where she can empower others by offering the support they need to reach their goals.
Casey
Matt
Matt is an outgoing, fun and positive person. He has recently completed a Certificate IV in Disability and has also completed a Bachelor of Commerce. When Matt isn’t working, he enjoys playing golf, going for beach walks and watching local sports. Matt enjoys working within the disability sector as he is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.
Ebony
Ebony has completed a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science which she completed in 2018 and is currently studying a Diploma in Counselling. Ebony is passionate towards being a positive role model and helping participants reach their goals. Ebony is interested in sports, art, cooking, the outdoors, hiking, and painting. One of Ebony’s niche skills is painting terracotta pots, where she sells them online and at markets. Ebony values honesty, creativity, and respect.
Liam
Liam is currently studying a Diploma in Mental Health and is expected to complete this in 2024. Liam values respect, integrity and being genuine. In his spare time, Liam likes going on adventures, camping, and being creative. Liam likes listening to music and podcasts. Liam is passionate about mental health and helping people to get the most out of themselves. He hopes to make an impact on those who may be struggling and watching them grow.
Michel
Michel comes from a working background of administration and finance. He has now chosen to follow a new career path as a Peer Mentor. Michel is empathetic, trustworthy and caring. He enjoys football, music and spending time with his family and friends. He is passionate about the Peer mentor program because he finds working with his Participants rewarding and it gives him the opportunity to give back to society.
Declan
Declan is a caring, friendly, and easy-going individual who is currently studying for a Bachelor of Social Work. Outside of his studies, Declan enjoys taking his dogs for walks, playing the guitar, reading, and spending quality time with friends and family. He finds entertainment in watching local football and netball matches, going for relaxing walks at Eastern Beach and watching movies. Declan’s passion for the Peer Mentor Program stems from his genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Wilson
Wilson is a kind, fun, and confident individual who is currently studying Marine Science. He has a wide range of interests, including Anime, Marvel, DnD, hiking, and reading. Wilson enjoys going to the movies, cooking, playing games, and catching up with his friends. He is very interested in music and can play the drums and is also learning the piano. He is passionate about helping others and believes that he can make a difference by sharing his experiences and knowledge.
Peer Mentors
Abbey
Abbey has completed two years of an Education Degree but is having a break from studying at the moment. She plans to complete a Bachelor of Primary Teaching in the future. Abbey’s interests include sports, camping and watching movies. Abbey is passionate about the peer mentor program as she loves working with people. She is looking forward to engaging with participants and watching them grow. Her top three values are respect, kindness and honesty.
Abby
Abby is an empathetic, kind and loyal person. She has recently completed a Certificate IV in Youth Work and a Diploma of Community Services. She is also working towards completing her Bachelor of Psychological Sciences and is due to complete this in 2026. When Abby isn’t working, she enjoys being creative, watching the football, and spending time with family or friends. She enjoys going to the beach and local markers. Abbey can speak 4 languages, including Indonesian, French and Italian. She is passionate about supporting and advocating for her participants while giving back to her local community.
Andrew
Andrew is a caring, supportive and hardworking person who has studied Musical Theatre. He has a wide range of interests, including gaming, reading, cooking, musical theatre and being active. He is very interested in the theatre and enjoys going to GUF to play games or going to GMHBA stadium to watch the footy. He can also tap dance and likes to teach people new skills and support them to achieve their NDIS goals.
Annie
Annie is currently studying a Double Degree in Nursing and Midwifery and is expected to complete it by 2024. Annie values respect, trust, and inclusivity. She enjoys reading, music (in particular Taylor Swift), crocheting, and animals. Annie loves the Harry Potter books as well as spending times with her dog, Poppy. Annie is passionate about making an impact on the lives of people with a disability and wants to empower people to be in charge of their lives.
Archie
Archie is a caring and inclusive person who values a physically active lifestyle. He is studying a Bachelor of Science at Melbourne University and is expected to complete this in 2026. Archie enjoys outdoor activities such as footy, surfing and golf as well as spending time with friends. Archie is passionate about meeting new people and trying to help them find happiness in life.
Bec
Bec is fun, enthusiastic and kind. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University and is expected to complete her studies in 2028. Bec likes netball, snowboarding and going to the beach. She is passionate about travelling and has travelled to locations such as Europe, Canada and New York. Bec enjoys being a Peer Mentor because she can give back to the community. She is excited about being in a position to make a real difference in people’s lives and observing the growth in confidence of her participants.
Bianca
Bianca is currently studying a Certificate IV in Disability. She values respect, honesty and being open-minded. Bianca loves music, movies, taking time to undertake in girly activities and get dressed up. One of Bianca’s hidden talents is she can memorise song lyrics very quickly. Bianca is passionate about being a Peer Mentor as her previous experience in respite has given her an awesome opportunity to continue doing what she loves while helping her participants with what they love.
Bri
Bri has a bubbly, outgoing and caring personality. She is an avid reader and enjoys drawing and pilates. She likes going out and participating in activities such as mini golf and bowling, as well as going for walks and to her favourite places to eat. Bri likes music and plays the piano and the flute. Bri is passionate about playing a meaningful role in the lives of others.
Brittney
Brittney is friendly, determined and approachable. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends or playing netball. She likes dogs and travelling, and once went on a cruise. Brittney is passionate about working with people and is helping guide them to reach their goals so they can grow. Brittney is also looking forward to having some fun and helping build positive relationships.
Cassie
Cassie is described as vibrant, passionate and empathetic. Her interests include nature walks, watching TV, camping and spending quality time with friends and family. She enjoys making a difference in the lives of others and finds working in the disability industry to be both challenging and rewarding. Her favourite part of her role is working with the amazing team at AYS. In Secondary School, Cassie learned the first 100 decimal points of Pi in order to make the 100 clubs and get a free pie. She completed a Diploma of Community Services in 2021.
Charlotte
Charlotte is empathetic, caring and funny. She enjoys going to the beach for a walk and playing basketball to keep active. She enjoys gaming and completing puzzles in her spare time. Charlotte has lived in many places, including England, New Zealand, USA, and now Australia. Charlotte is passionate about helping people achieve the goals they set out to do. She is eager to help people find their passion and help them build meaningful connections.
Claudia
Claudia is a friendly and energetic individual who is presently on the path to becoming an Occupational Therapist. She thrives on creativity and in her downtime loves painting and art. Outside of her studies, Claudia enjoys going to the beach, indulging in retail therapy, or taking leisurely walks. Claudia loves working as a Peer Mentor as this role continually challenges her creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Conor
Conor is currently studying Occupational Therapy. Conor is caring, resilient and respectful. In his spare time, Conor enjoys football, basketball, golf, the beach, the outdoors, the movies and boxing in his spare time. Conor is passionate about being in the Peer Mentor Program as he enjoys spending time with other people, and he also finds the Peer Mentor role fulfilling.
Daniel
Daniel is currently studying for a Bachelor of Social Work and is due to complete this in 2024. He is a funny, caring and passionate person who enjoys music and playing the guitar. When Daniel isn’t working, he enjoys drawing, trying out new restaurants and watching live music. With over 4 years of experience, Daniel has seen firsthand the positive impact Peer Mentor Support can have on the participants’ health and well-being.
Daniel
Daniel is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University and is due to complete this at the end of 2025. He is enthusiastic, compassionate and loyal. Daniel enjoys sports such as soccer, basketball, football and cricket. He also has a passion for music, especially guitar and piano. When Daniel isn’t working, he enjoys going to the movies and fishing at the Waterfront. Daniel loves working as a Peer Mentor as he enjoys getting to know his participants and having a positive impact on their lives.
Dean
Dean is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) and is expected to complete the course in 2025. Dean values teamwork, honesty and effort. In his spare time, Dean enjoys playing sports such as footy, likes travelling and spending time on the beach with his dog. Dean is passionate about being in the Peer Mentor Program as he would like to help create a positive change in the lives of young participants and to give back to the community.
Debra
Deb is a caring and compassionate individual. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. Deb has a background in Education Support and Volunteering in Schools. Deb enjoys going for drives in her Kombi, walking along the beach and spending time with her grandchildren. Deb likes cooking and watching her favourite artists at concerts and gigs. Deb is excited to positively influence the lives of others through her role.
Eli
Eli is currently studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering at RMIT and is due to finish at the end of 2024. He would like his course to lead into prosthetics and assistive technology. Eli’s friends and family describe him as honest, hard-working and consistent. On his days off work, Eli enjoys playing tennis, reading and spending time with his friends and family. He is passionate about developing strong and rewarding relationships with his participants and seeing them reach their full potential.
Eliza
Eliza is a considerate, kind and bubbly individual who is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. With a particular interest in sport, she enjoys playing and watching soccer in her free time. Eliza also enjoys cooking and spending time with friends and her dogs. Eliza’s favourite things to do in Geelong include going to Timezone, and taking walks along the beach. She is passionate about helping others to achieve their life goals and making a positive impact.
Emmanuel
Emmanuel is currently studying a Bachelor’s degree in business and which he is due to complete in 2024. Emmanuel loves the peer mentor program and enjoys helping his participants achieve their NDIS goals. Emmanuel enjoys being active and is interested in football, basketball and tennis. In Emmanuel’s spare time he also likes exploring new areas, shooting hoops and going out to new restaurants. A fascinating fact about Emmanuel is that he can understand and speak Arabic.
Erin
Erin has a Bachelor of Health Science which she completed in 2012, a Cert IV in Health (Nursing), and a Graduate Certificate in Adolescent Health and Wellbeing which she completed in 2020. She values integrity, honesty and respect. Erin loves snowboarding, being outdoors, baking and volunteering. Erin enjoys working with participants to achieve their goals and build solid relationships with them.
Fletcher
Fletcher is currently studying for a Certificate III in Individual Support. Fletcher is gentle-natured, empathetic and kind. In his spare time, Fletcher likes to keep active by playing football and going to the gym. Fletcher enjoys the creative arts and drawing from time to time. He also values quality time with his family and friends. Fletcher loves the Peer Mentor Program as he is passionate about AYS and has grown up surrounded by disability and has a desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
Fraser
Fraser is currently studying a Bachelor of Construction Management and is due to complete this at the end of 2025. He is a caring, friendly and generous person. Fraser lives an active lifestyle and enjoys playing football, golf and going for runs. On his days off, Fraser enjoys catching up with friends and going out for coffee. Fraser loves working as a Peer Mentor and helping his participants achieve their goals whilst having an enjoyable time.
Georgia
Grace
Grace is a motivated and friendly person. She is an Occupational Therapy student, set to finish her studies in 2026. She has a wide range of interests, including netball, tennis, football, art, and reading. Grace loves spending time with her family, taking her dog for a walk, and catching up on her favourite Netflix shows. A unique skill that Grace has is that she knows how to juggle. Grace is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program because she values helping others.
Hayden
Hayden is a loving, enthusiastic and approachable individual with a genuine passion for supporting others. His hobbies encompass a wide range of interests, including collecting Lego, reading, writing, art and model building. Hayden has an extensive movie collection and has an interest in history. Outside of work, Hayden finds solace in nature, often op shopping, visiting museums and visiting animal shelters. In the Geelong area, Hayden’s favourite activities include beach walks, browsing shops, antiquing and visiting museums. With a musical talent, he plays the piano and enjoys writing music. Hayden has a goal to successfully apply for the defence force one day.
Hunter
Hunter is a compassionate, kind and understanding person who is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing. His interests include surfing, skateboarding, art, poetry and playing footy. In his spare time, he likes to skateboard, swim at Eastern Beach or go to the movies. Hunter enjoys teaching people to surf or skateboard. Hunter is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program because it is meaningful and he has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
Jack
Jack is currently studying Exercise Science/Physiotherapy at Victoria University. Jack is motivated, passionate and optimistic. He enjoys playing and watching football, spending time with mates, skiing, going to the gym and being outdoors. Jack loves helping his participants and watching them engage with their hobbies and achieve goals.
Jack
Jack isn’t currently studying however he is interested in becoming an ambulance officer in the future. He is a friendly, welcoming and enthusiastic person who enjoys making a difference in the community through supporting people. Jack is interested in health and fitness and enjoys going to the gym. In his spare time Jack likes playing video games, 4×4 driving and going to the beach. One of Jack’s favourite things to do in the Geelong area is visiting the driving range.
Jackson
Jackson’s friends and family describe him as friendly and caring. He has worked in the disability sector for 5 years and has a Cert III and IV in Disability. In his spare time, Jackson likes to keep active by playing sports, particularly tennis at the Moolap Tennis Club. He also enjoys going to the footy, going for walks, getting a coffee, watching films and listening to music. Jackson is passionate about helping people and loves seeing others grow and achieve.
Jaimee
Jaimee is an outgoing and supportive individual who is passionate about helping others. With a keen interest in studying Certificate 4 in Community Service in the future. On her days off Jaimee enjoys playing basketball, football, and spending time with friends. Jaimee has travelled extensively throughout Australia and lived in Miami for a year. She is particularly passionate about the peer mentor program, using her lived experience with neurodiversity to help others.
Jake
Jake values honesty, compassion and respect. Jake loves playing video games, going to the gym, watching movies, bushwalks and enjoying the outdoors. Jake is also self-confessed foodie. He is passionate about helping others and is a big believer in making everyone feel appreciated and loved and believes that everyone should be respected.
Jared
Jared has completed a Diploma in Community Services. He values respect, compassion, and trust. Jared loves playing video games, watching films, superheroes, history and walks while enjoying nature. As a Peer Mentor, Jared feels rewarded by supporting participants to achieve their goals in life. Jared would like to give back to the community by helping others achieve their goals by having a positive impact on those he mentors.
Jayden
Jayden holds a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing and Communication. He values honesty, having fun and being yourself. Jayden loves video games, Lego and superhero movies. One of his unique skills is that he can speak a little Indonesian. Jayden is passionate about helping participants achieve their goals while having fun and finds Peer Mentoring very rewarding as he gets to have a positive impact on the lives of participants.
Jeremy
Jeremy has completed a Bachelor’s degree in Science and is currently studying his Masters of Teaching (Secondary). A honest and respectful person Jeremy is looking forward to working alongside his participants to help promote independence and improve their quality of life. Jeremy is interested in music and can play the guitar and piano. In Jeremy’s spare time he enjoys cooking, playing golf, going for walks and DJing.
Jessie
Jessie is a caring, funny and smart individual who is interested in helping others to do the things they love to do. She is currently studying Occupational Therapy and is expected to complete her studies in 2025. Jessie enjoys reading, netball and watching the Richmond Tigers. Jessie likes to visit the beach, complete escape rooms and go shopping. Jessie is passionate about seeing the progress her participants make and having a positive influence over this.
Joel
Joel enjoys playing basketball, console and PC games, listening to music and watching tv shows and movies. Joel also likes engaging in Astrophotography and learning about Astronomy. He values integrity and respect and is passionate about empowering participants to reach their goals. Joel enjoys having the opportunity to have a positive impact on others in the community.
Jordan
Jordan has recently finished studying a Health Science degree at Deakin University, with future study plans of studying a language. He is compassionate, respectful and honest. Jordan enjoys sports, music, art, socialising with family and friends, travelling and nature. Jordan is interested in bringing individuals happiness and fun times. He enjoys meeting individuals with diverse backgrounds and getting to build relationships with them.
Jordyn
Jordyn is kind, caring and compassionate towards others. She is studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and is expected to complete her studies in 2025. Jordyn plays netball, enjoys dancing, music and exercise. Jordyn values spending time with friends and family and participating in activities such as walking and pilates. Jordyn is passionate about assisting people and enabling them to do the things that they love.
Josh
Josh is currently studying a Bachelor of Laws Degree and set to graduate in 2027. He is also committed to learning the French language. Josh is quite an active person and spends his days off work bouldering/rock-climbing, skateboarding and running. He also enjoys watching movies, playing video games and going to the beach. Josh is passionate about community service, seeking opportunities to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Kiarne
Kiarne is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing. She is compassionate, passionate and honest. Kiarne loves to teach dance, play sports, draw, and be outdoors. Kiarne is passionate about the Peer Mentor program at AYS because she enjoys working with a wide range of people while helping participants reach their goals. The best thing about the role for Kiarne is watching her participants reach those goals.
Laura
Laura is an outgoing, caring and supportive person. Laura is currently studying a Bachelor of Physical Education (Secondary) at Deakin University and is expected to complete her studies in 2028. Laura enjoys playing netball, fishing and going to the beach. In her spare time, Laura also enjoys exploring coastal areas and going shopping. Laura is passionate about meeting new people, getting to know them and supporting them to achieve their goals.
Lewis
Lewis is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne and hopes to one day work in the media advertising industry. He has a love for the outdoors and wants to travel overseas in the future. Lewis’ values consist of trust, communication and having fun. In his spare time, Lewis enjoys playing footy, basketball, skating, playing music and socialising with friends and family. Lewis is enthusiastic about the Peer Mentor role as he loves to help people grow their confidence, develop independence and help others achieve their goals.
Lily
Lily is kind, bubbly, and curious to learn more about other people she meets. She is studying for a Certificate IIII in Mental Health. Lily comes from a creative background and is a qualified graphic designer, who has studied in Japan. Lile likes to explore new places and enjoys being creative by attending art exhibits and completing art projects in her spare time. She likes to relax by reading or going for a walk in Jan Juc. Lily is passionate about empowering people to fulfill their goals and make positive choices in their lives, especially when it comes to education.
Lisa
Luke
Luke is currently studying a Certificate IV in Disability and Community Services. Luke likes to spend his spare time going bike riding, surfing, camping and playing video games. He values respect, kindness and having empathy. Luke sees the Peer Mentor program as a valuable way to help participants build meaningful relationships and achieve their goals while having fun.
Mac
Mac is studying a Bachelor of Optometry and is due to complete it in 2027. He is caring, honest, and understanding. In his spare time, Mac likes to keep active by playing footy or golf and playing his Xbox from time to time. He also loves going to the beach and fishing. Mac can play the ukulele. Mac loves the Peer Mentor Program as it allows him to connect with people and help them improve their quality of life.
Madeline
Madeline is a compassionate and respectful individual. She is interested in studying something in the disability field soon. Madeline finds joy in playing netball, catching the latest movies, and embarking on road trips to Barwon Heads. She also enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family. Madeline is excited to empower, motivate and support her participants and to make a positive impact in their lives.
Mitch
Mitch is kind, respectful and happy. He is studying a Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin University and is due to complete this at the end of 2026. He enjoys participating in and watching sports including footy, cricket and basketball. Mitch likes to read, walk and go to the beach to work on his tan. As a Peer Mentor, Mitch looks forward to making a positive impact on his community and helping others.
Molly
Molly is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and is due to complete this in 2026. She is ambitious, loving and fun. Molly enjoys helping people and seeing the positive impact it has on their life. Molly has travelled a lot within Australia and also overseas. She is very interested in sport and athletics and went on a basketball trip to the USA. In her spare time she enjoys reading, watching movies, visiting art galleries and hanging out with her friends.
Neesha
Neesha is not currently studying and has no plans to return to further studies at this point in time. Neesha is kind, humorous and colourful. She plays competitive dodgeball and enjoys dancing and art. She loves cats and can play the trumpet. Neesha is looking forward to being able to help others by supporting and empowering them to be the best version of themselves. Neesha hopes to leave a positive impact on those she supports.
Noah
Noah has recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science. His friends and family describe him as caring, energetic and selfless. Noah lived overseas for 12 months in America and completed a year of high school there. He lives an active lifestyle and enjoys going to the gym and playing golf when he isn’t working. Noah also enjoys DJing on the weekends and has a strong interest in music.
Oliver
Oliver is currently studying a Diploma of Elite Sports Business and is due to complete his qualification in 2024. His family and friends describe him as caring, funny and determined. Oliver has a wide range of interests including; travelling, watching soccer, going to concerts and DJing. In his spare time, he loves to stay active and enjoys going for a run or going to the gym. Oliver loves working as a peer mentor and making a difference in people’s day-to-day happiness.
Oscar
Oscar is currently studying Law and Commerce and is due to complete this in 2027. He is a focused, reliable and caring person. Oscar lives an active lifestyle and enjoys going to the gym and running. He also relishes his downtime and likes listening to podcasts and watching TV. An interesting fact about Oscar is that he can hold a basic conversation in Mandarin Chinese.
Paige
Patrick
Patrick is described as kind, patient and driven. His interests include Information Technology, playing board games with friends and reading. In his spare time, he enjoys playing video games and spending time with his family and friends. Patrick is passionate about his work in the disability sector because he believes it makes a substantial difference in people’s confidence to access the services, they need to achieve their NDIS goals. The best part of his role is hearing the inspiring stories of people’s journeys in pursuing their goals. Patrick is currently studying a Bachelor of Information Technology at Deakin University.
Phoebe
Phoebe is currently studying Occupational Therapy and is set to finish her studies in 2026. She enjoys staying active by dancing, going to the gym, and taking her dog for a walk. Phoebe also has a passion for cooking and spending time with friends. When she’s not studying or working she loves walking along the Pier and going shopping in Geelong. She’s excited about the Peer Mentor Program and sees it as an opportunity to create a positive and strong bond with NDIS participants.
Riley
Riley has completed a Bachelor’s degree in Sport Science and Exercise Physiology. He is easy-going, personable and enjoys chatting to anyone. Riley is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program because he wants to help people live the best life they possibly can. In his spare time, Riley enjoys hiking in the Otways, swimming at Breamlea Beach and travelling whenever he gets the chance.
Ruby
Ruby is an adventurous, caring and fun person who has successfully completed a Diploma of Community Services. She brings her passion for making a positive impact to her work. Ruby finds joy in going for walks, visiting the beach, practicing reformer Pilates and embarking on camping adventures. During her downtime, she loves trying out new restaurants, taking leisurely walks in the botanical gardens and going to the beach. Ruby’s commitment to the Peer Mentor Program stems from her genuine enjoyment of helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Ryley
Ryley is a kind, happy and patient person. He is currently studying a degree in Occupational Therapy and is due to finish this in 2024. He lives an active life and enjoys rowing, surfing, hiking and going to the gym. Ryley also relishes downtime with movies, hanging out with friends and playing video games. Ryley loves working as a Peer Mentor and assisting individuals in accessing the community and engaging in activities they’re passionate about.
Sam
Sam finds working as a Peer Mentor extremely rewarding as it gives him the opportunity to improve the lives of others. Sam is interested in sports, particularly basketball and football. On his days off, Sam enjoys going to the gym, watching movies and hanging out with friends. Sam’s top three values are honesty, empathy and giving his all in everything he does.
Sam
Sam has completed his Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science in 2021. Sam values respect, kindness and inclusiveness. In his spare time, Sam enjoys surfing, music which includes playing guitar, drawing, gardening, and camping. Sam is passionate about being in the Peer Mentor Program as he has wanted to contribute positively to other people’s lives and make a difference in the community. Sam is also looking forward to positively interacting with participants.
Sam
Sam is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) and is due to complete this in 2026. He is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program as he enjoys bringing a smile to people’s faces. Sam’s friends and family describe him as funny, caring and respectful. Sam has lived in many places across Melbourne, Colac and Geelong. On the weekend Sam enjoys playing footy, taking a walk on the beach and going out for coffee.
Sam
Sam is a caring, outgoing and enthusiastic person. Sam is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology and Criminology at Deakin University and has future plans to become a child psychologist. Sam’s interests include football, going to the beach and playing golf. Sam is passionate about helping people reach their goals and aspirations and is particularly excited to connect with individuals and see their progress.
Sebastian
Sebastian has studied a Diploma of Social Welfare. Sebastian is friendly, funny, and generous. In his spare time, Sebastian enjoys reading and spending time with friends and his family. He also likes to go to the cinema. Sebastian is passionate about the peer mentor program because he enjoys working alongside them and assisting them to achieve their goals.
Simone
Simone is described as caring, generous and understanding. She studied vet nursing in the 1980s and is considering studying disability officially. On her days off, Simone likes to spend time with friends and family, swim, walk her dogs on the beach, eat out at restaurants and travel. Simone is passionate about helping out families to make their lives that little bit easier.
Skye
Skye is a qualified Occupational Therapist and completed this degree at the end of 2023. She loves working a Peer Mentor as she enjoys helping others and making a difference in their lives. Skye is a kind and easy-going person who enjoys exercise, sports and being outdoors. When Skye isn’t working, she enjoys going for walks, relaxing at the beach and going to pilates.
Sophie
Sophie is currently in her fourth year of studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University. Sophie likes playing football, cooking and spending time with her dog. Sophie also enjoys spending time going to the gym and spending time at the beach with her friends. Sophie is an avid Geelong Cats supporter and enjoys watching them play at Kardinia Park. Sophie is passionate about supporting people to get the most out of themselves and improve their quality of life. Sophie says that the best thing about the role is the opportunity to build relationships and have a positive impact on her participants.
Steve
Steve is an easy-going and sociable person who brings a friendly and approachable demeanour to his work. He finds joy in connecting with others and creating a positive environment. Steve’s interests include watching the AFL, going for walks, camping and cycling. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, taking his dog for runs and going to the beach. Steve has basic proficiency in Japanese and also knows how to play the guitar. He is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program and enjoys creating a safe and supportive space for participants to achieve their goals.
Tess
Tess is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing, and is due to complete this in 2025. She is naturally caring, empathetic, and has a kind personality. Tess enjoys playing netball, reading, drawing, and going op shopping. On her days off Tess spends her time at the beach or relaxing with friends. She’s well-travelled and has visited over 20 countries. Tess is passionate about the Peer Mentor Program as she loves to help people and sees it as an opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.
Tim
Tim has recently completed a Bachelor of Biomedicine and is currently studying a Masters of Physiotherapy. Tim has a keen interest in football, going to the gym and Anatomy/Human health. In his free time, Tim enjoys gaming, DJing and socialising with his friends. Tim is passionate about Peer Mentoring as it allows him to help others, bring a smile to their faces and guide them towards success.
Tom
Tom’s friends and family describe him as friendly, enthusiastic and bubbly. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Health Science (to be completed in 2027) with the hope of transferring to a Bachelor of Nursing at some stage. Tom plays footy for the Geelong West Giants and in his spare time, he likes to go for a coffee and hang out with mates, watching and playing basketball and going for a swim at Geelong’s Eastern Beach.
Wayne
Will
Will is studying Exercise & Sport Science at Deakin University. He is trustworthy, joyful and wants to continue his personal growth. Will’s interests include football, basketball, going to the beach and playing on his Xbox. He is passionate about the Peer Mentor program because he enjoys helping his Participants grow and enhance their lives.
William
William is interested in studying Business/Event Management in the future. His friends and family members describe him as enthusiastic and inclusive. William is interested in music, video games, DJing and pop culture. His favourite things to do in the Geelong area include; visiting the driving range, going for beach walks and shopping. William finds his role as a peer mentor very rewarding as he is having a positive impact on the life of others.
Zavier
Zavier is outgoing, patient and kind. He has recently completed a Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) and hopes to study Social Work in the next couple of years. Zav likes growing his taste in music, getting out and being social while going on the occasional op shop run. As a New Zealand-born citizen, he is looking forward to giving back to our community.
Ally
Ally is currently studying to become a nurse and is to complete her Bachelors in 2027. Ally is outgoing, positive and works hard at anything she sets her mind to. In her spare time, Ally loves playing cricket, reading, or listening to music. Ally is an ADL umpire and enjoys watching the AFL season. Ally is passionate about broadening her skills in helping and caring for individuals and is looking forward to meeting new people in her role.
Katie
Katie is currently studying for a Bachelor of Medical Imaging and is due to complete this in 2026. Katie has an energetic, fun, and kind personality. In her spare time, Katie loves going for a walk, run or bike ride and spending time at the beach. Katie enjoys baking and cooking in her spare time. Kaite can play the flute and piano. She has the opportunity to visit quite a few places, including China and Europe. Katie is looking forward to having the opportunity to help boost people’s confidence in her role and encourage them to be themselves.
Nathan
Nathan is a caring, funny and patient person who feels his Peer Mentor work is purposeful and can help people achieve their goals. His interests include playing footy, basketball and trying different sports. Nathan enjoys watching movies and science documentaries. In his spare time, Nathan enjoys going to the driving range, walking his dog around the lake and shooting hoops at his local courts.
Cassie
Cassie is described as vibrant, passionate and empathetic. Her interests include nature walks, watching TV, camping and spending quality time with friends and family. She enjoys making a difference in the lives of others and finds working in the disability industry to be both challenging and rewarding. Her favourite part of her role is working with the amazing team at AYS. In Secondary School, Cassie learned the first 100 decimal points of Pi in order to make the 100 clubs and get a free pie. She completed a Diploma of Community Services in 2021.
Kiarne
Kiarne is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing. She is compassionate, passionate and honest. Kiarne loves to teach dance, play sports, draw, and be outdoors. Kiarne is passionate about the Peer Mentor program at AYS because she enjoys working with a wide range of people while helping participants reach their goals. The best thing about the role for Kiarne is watching her participants reach those goals.