The BYSA Crew

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Manager & Finance Manager

With over 30 years of experience in accounting within the non-profit sector, Toni has dedicated her career to ensuring financial integrity and sustainability for organisations committed to making a difference. 

Her work has particularly been driven by a passion for improving the lives of the Aboriginal community in Blacktown.

 Toni is deeply committed to the wellbeing of women, and is a strong advocate against domestic violence. She strives to create a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals affected by this issue.

Outside of her professional and community endeavours, Toni enjoys cycling, farming, and spending quality time with her family. These activities bring balance and fulfilment to her life.

Youth Practitioner & Partnerships

With over a decade of experience in community services, I specialise in supporting young people facing complex challenges through partnerships, programs, and services that help them overcome barriers to social integration. 

Drawing on my lived experience, education, and research, I design programs that promote long-term social change, equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and resources to become active members of their communities. I am passionate about helping young people reach their full potential, build resilience, and give back to the community.

Currently undertaking a Doctor of Social Work, my research focuses on the gap between welfare policy frameworks and the lived experiences of those receiving welfare benefits. My previous research explored the development of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and the transmission of the intergenerational poverty cycle. 

As a strong advocate for collaboration, I work closely with community members, service providers, and local organisations to create lasting change, ensuring young people access opportunities to thrive. 

Youth Practitioner & Creative Lead

Britt is a passionate youth advocate who aims to empower young people to be leaders. They have their own unique experience and history at BYSA, having been a young person at the service themselves once upon a time. Britt uses this personal connection and understanding of BYSA to further inform their practice and to establish impactful connections with BYSA's clients.

With a youth-centred approach, Britt believes young people should be the loudest voice when making decisions that shape their lives. By centering young voices, they empower young people to lead, foster inclusivity, dismantle systemic barriers, paving the way for meaningful social change.

As a local Britt is a staunch advocate for the Blacktown area, and is always looking for new ways to connect with the community. It is because of this love of Blacktown and their own lived experience as a local queer person that Britt became the co-founder of AllOut! Blacktown, a safe space for queer young people seeking social connection and community wellbeing. 

Britt has long term goals of working for a queer youth organisation which aims to support communities like Blacktown to learn and understand the intricacies and diversity of the queer community.

In their spare time, Britt enjoys creative projects, getting out into nature, reading, and intensely analysing their favourite media and characters.

Youth Engagement Worker

With my 2 years experience in youth work primarily volunteering in the non-profit sector I have participated in events like The Elevated Culture Festival Event and Kites for Kids. 

My background in youth work has predominantly been as a mentor helping young people with school reintegration as well as emotional and social development. 

I am passionate about empowering young people by using a strength-based approach, assisting them in developing life skills and I believe everyone should have a safe space to find who they are.