I manage a couple of youth programmes for YMCA WA. One programme, Youth Parliament, gets 59 passionate, community-minded young people together to identify societal issues that could be improved through legislation. The young people then write pieces of legislation, which they debate on the floor in Parliament House.
The second programme, YMentoring, matches socially-isolated young people with supportive adult role-models to get them out of the house and engaging with society.
Why do you do it?
I get the pleasure of working out of the amazing YMCA HQ youth facility in Leederville, so I'm constantly surrounded by young people who are contributing to the world through music, the arts and community activism. It's inspiring and fulfilling to see what young people are able to achieve when given the space and freedom to pursue their interests.
What do you love about the city you live in?
The beaches, the weather and the real drive there's been over the past decade to put Perth on the map; it's transformed into a place that I'm always happy to come home to.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
I just got back from five weeks travelling around Mexico, Cuba and Colombia. Trekking to The Lost City in Colombia was a definite highlight.
What's your favourite item of clothing?
A pair of 'Toy Story' Vans based on Woody's outfit in the movies. They have 'Andy' written on the sole, just like Woody's boots.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'. I had the bed linen, the video games and all of the toys.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
Woodstock.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us?
Definitely something Asian. Maybe a Massaman curry.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
If you don't ask, you don't get.
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
I'm still waiting for John Keyne's 15-hour work week to come into effect. I've put a lot of effort into making sure the balance is right over the past few years; if we don't actively prioritise creating the balance it's so easy for this to shift in the wrong direction.
How do you define success?
Knowing that my work has provided growth opportunities for young people.
What's your spirit animal?
An otter.
