CO-FOUNDER, DIRECTOR AND PROGRAM DESIGNER

Jase brings over a decade of frontline experience in youth justice, coaching, disability services, and mentoring. He founded Thrive and Connect after witnessing firsthand how fragmented systems often failed young people. Jase leads with empathy, structure, and cultural integrity — creating trauma-aware programs that connect deeply and open real pathways for young people. He holds a Bachelor of Psychology and is a passionate advocate for relational, culturally grounded practice.

C0-FOUNDER, DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS & FINANCE

Aaron brings a strong operational and analytical backbone to Thrive and Connect. With years of experience running multi-million-dollar logistics businesses, he knows how to build systems that last — and to lead with accountability and care. As co-founder and Director, he oversees finances, compliance, and daily operations, keeping our growth grounded in good governance and sustainability. Currently completing a Bachelor of Finance, Aaron ensures every resource and decision strengthens our impact in community.

IMPACT AND DEVELOPMENT

Nicole’s role at Thrive and Connect is to keep us grounded as we grow. She works on partnerships, planning, and making sure we stay accountable to the young people and communities we serve. With a background in business development and project management, she helps put structure around our ideas and turn them into action. Her focus on growth and measuring outcomes ensures our work stays sustainable, values-driven, and responsive to community needs.

MENTOR

Jamie first joined Thrive and Connect through our Coastal Connector program and quickly proved to be a natural leader. She brings organisation, calm, and just the right amount of energy to keep things moving — whether that’s supporting young people through challenges or managing the logistics behind the scenes. She believes mentoring is about showing up fully, through both the highs and the hard times. Jamie’s approach is practical, warm, and centred on creating positive experiences that help young people build confidence and belonging.

MENTOR

Ngong joined Thrive and Connect this year after relocating from Melbourne to play with the Cairns Tigers. Coming from a family of 10, he’s a natural people-person who quickly connects with all kinds of young people and groups.Although new to mentoring, Ngong has taken to the role with energy, persistence, and humour. He has a way of encouraging young people who need that extra bit of support, showing them they can be themselves, free of judgement. His easygoing nature and commitment are already making a big impact.

MENTOR

Bailey was inspired to join Thrive and Connect by the passion and journeys of the team, and by the chance to be part of something that can make a real difference in young people’s lives. He believes programs like this open doors to opportunities that many young people may not have thought possible. Friendly and approachable, Bailey creates a space where young people feel safe, comfortable, and free of judgement. He’s passionate about seeing them achieve wins in their own way — whether it’s reaching a new personal best in the gym or experiencing the lightbulb moments of learning a new skill.