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We have an incredible team of directors who oversee our strategic direction and management to ensure that all vulnerable mothers impacted by crisis, isolation and discrimination can thrive with their newborns, in their communities.
CEO/Founding Director
Melissa has a Bachelor of Nursing Science, Graduate diploma in Midwifery & Postgraduate certificate in Sexual Health as well extensive experience both personally and professionally working with vulnerable mothers. Having been a teenage mother herself, Mel aims to see that vulnerable mothers have the support they need.
Melissa was named the 2023 QLD Australian of the Year Local Hero and also received a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to Social Welfare. Melissa is a published author & a co-author on published research with the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Director/Mental Health Clinician
Breanna is a Registered Mental Health Clinician with a Bachelor of Behavioural Science and a Diploma of Health Science. Breanna is an advocate for young mothers with a focus on trauma-informed education and wrap around support during the Perinatal period.
Breanna is a co-author on published research with the University of the Sunshine Coast and a mother to two young daughters.
Chair
Mandy is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in the finance industry, currently as the Senior Manager at a Community Bank.
Mandy’s passion lies in supporting the community and the impactful work of not-for-profit organisations. Her personal journey also aligns with the mission of A Brave Life—having faced challenges at a young age, Mandy became pregnant with her first child at 17 due to difficult circumstances at home. She is eager to contribute to an organisation that positively impacts vulnerable mothers and aims to contribute to their well-being.
Director
Fiona brings over a decade of People & Culture experience in corporate settings and prides herself on her leadership, emotional intelligence and commercial astute.
She is the Head of People & Culture at Collective Wellness Group, a mother of two under 3 years of age, Social Work degree qualified and very passionate about health and fitness (she is also a qualified Personal Trainer). Fiona’s unique combination of professional skills and life experience make her a well-rounded asset to the Board.
Director
Leah is a General Counsel with a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce and further studies in Commercial Laws and Corporate Governance. Leah is passionate about supporting local women in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast and helping the not-for-profit sector through stronger corporate governance and business systems.
Leah is a past chair/director of Brisbane Women’s Club, past chair of UN Women Australia Brisbane Committee and active committee member of National Council of Women Qld and her local school and community neighbourhood watch group. Leah is a mum, in a family of 5, with 3 girls aged between 7-18; mum life is fantastically hectic!
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