I bring over 14 years of experience in the lived experience sector, shaped by my personal experiences of mental health challenges as both a consumer and carer. I understand the personal and professional journeys of those in the lived experience workforce and am deeply committed to supporting their growth—both individually and within broader systems. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centred, and grounded in curiosity and reflection.

I have over 14 years experience in the mental health lived experience workforce sector, with a strong focus on peer support, advocacy, and leadership. Having worked across a broad range of mental health services, I understand the potential challenges that may arise providing peer support across various service settings. My roles have included:

- Advanced Peer Worker and Consumer and Carer Coordinator within several Queensland Health facilities, including: inpatient, residential and community mental health settings. - Coordinator, Facilitated Coaching & In-Person Peer Support (Carer Gateway) - Managing teams, developing lived experience programs delivered in a variety of settings, and facilitating training and advocacy efforts.

My skills are deeply rooted in lived experience and professional expertise, including:

- Communication & Advocacy: Highly developed ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and accessibility. - Extensive experience supervising and guiding peer support workers. - Program Development & Evaluation: Overseeing lived experience programs, tracking key performance indicators, and identifying opportunities for development. - Networking & Stakeholder Engagement: Establishing partnerships, collaborating with NGOs, and working with healthcare providers. - Training & Education: Facilitating coaching sessions, professional development programs, and co-design initiatives.

I have recently commenced working part-time as a Lived/Living Experience Project Officer for the Queensland Centre of Mental Health Research. The primary purpose of this role is to provide advice on lived experience and contribute to the development, design, and delivery of research led by the Mental Health Evaluation stream at the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR). The role also shapes and strengthens how lived/living experience is embedded across the Stream’s functions. I am also completing post graduate studies in research, which will culminate in a research project focusing on the ongoing support, development and training/educational needs of the lived experience workforce.

I have completed training/qualifications in the following:

- Diploma of Community Services (Mental Health) - Specialised workshops & certifications, such as: - Lived Experience Leadership & Advocacy (2024) - PeerZone Facilitator Training (2021) - DBT Skills Training (2020) - ASIST Suicide Intervention (2016) - Advanced Intentional Peer Support (2012)

I am also currently studying a Graduate Certificate in Research and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

Recognising the challenges faced by lived experience workers, I strive to create a supportive space where these challenges become opportunities for personal and professional development and growth. My mission is to walk alongside you, ensuring that the your voice - and the collective voice of lived experience - remains strong, heard, and firmly rooted in the consumer movement’s foundations.