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 seeing firsthand how fragmented systems often failed young people — and how much difference genuine connection and consistency can make. He leads with empathy, structure, and cultural integrity, creating trauma-aware programs that start with trust and build from there. For Jase, it’s never about fixing young people — it’s about walking alongside them, showing what’s possible, and helping them see themselves differently. His approach is grounded in psychology, culture, and lived experience, with a focus on creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and ready to take their next step.

CO-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 how to lead with accountability and care.

As Co-Founder and Director, Aaron oversees finances, compliance, and daily operations — keeping growth grounded in good governance and sustainability. He’s currently completing a Bachelor of Finance and is focused on making sure every decision strengthens Thrive and Connect’s long-term impact in the community.

PROGRAM LEAD

Marcus brings heart, structure, and a steady commitment to seeing young people thrive. After ten years in Cairns and a strong background in youth and community work, he’s become a calm, reliable presence who keeps things running smoothly and the team supported. Known for his grounded approach and the way he builds genuine connections, Marcus has a knack for balancing care with accountability, helping young people reach their potential while supporting mentors to do their best work. Helping young people reach their full potential excites him, as does being part of growing a program that can change future generations.

IMPACT AND DEVELOPMENT

Nicole helps Thrive and Connect grow with purpose. She works across funding, evaluation, and strategy — keeping things moving forward while making sure the team stays true to the young people they’re here for. With a background in business development and project management, she’s good at putting structure around big ideas and turning them into action. Nicole has a strong interest in psychology and a real passion for mission-driven work, bringing curiosity, care, and direction to everything she does. She’s driven by seeing ideas turn into something real — and by helping build programs that make a genuine difference in people’s lives.

PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR & 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.