Meet the Team
Lachy founded Connect Grow Thrive with a clear purpose: to support young men through positive male role modelling and meaningful, community-based connections. The focus of the organization was shaped by his strong personal belief in the impact that consistent guidance, encouragement, and healthy routines can have on young people.
Today, Lachy remains closely involved in guiding the values, culture, and direction of Connect Grow Thrive, ensuring the team delivers support that is respectful, reliable, and focused on genuine growth.
Hello, I’m Jaidyn. Originally from Tasmania, I’ve been living on the Sunshine Coast for the past three years, where I work as a support worker assisting young males aged 11–25. My role focuses on building confidence, independence, and healthy routines through physical activity and community engagement. I support participants in activities such as gym sessions, hiking, and football training, and have also assisted in coaching the All-Abilities Noosa Football Team, reinforcing my commitment to inclusion and community connection. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, spending time at the beach, and connecting with others while bringing a positive and professional approach to everything I do.
Hi, I’m Val. I’m 27 and moved from Germany to Australia last year. I’m a compassionate and thoughtful support worker with a strong focus on human connection, wellbeing, and community. I enjoy an active, mindful lifestyle and spend much of my time outdoors, surfing, running, and practicing movement-based training. I’m passionate about healthy routines, music, and creativity, and have played guitar and sung for many years. Previously, I worked with Syrian and North African refugees in Germany, supporting children, families, and individuals with community integration, housing, and employment. With a background in astrophysics, I chose to transition into support work to pursue my passion for empathy, connection, and meaningful impact.
Hi, I’m Chris. I’m 31 and have over ten years of experience working in wellbeing roles across primary and secondary schools in Victoria, before recently relocating to Queensland. I bring a broad range of life experience and a strong commitment to supporting individuals and families in a genuine and reliable way. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through sport, particularly volleyball, and am involved in community music programs. With diverse professional and personal interests, I approach my work with empathy, perspective, and a positive outlook.
Hi, I’m Dean, a 29-year-old support worker based on the Sunshine Coast. I have over two years’ experience supporting clients with a range of needs, including mental health and high-intensity behaviors. I’m empathetic, down-to-earth, and take a big-brother style approach — combining practical support, encouragement, and a bit of fun. With a background in construction and retail, I bring strong people skills, emotional awareness, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Outside of work, I enjoy the outdoors, music, gaming, motorbikes, and sports.
Hi, I’m Ruben. I’m a reliable and supportive support worker and personal trainer who values patience, consistency, and genuine connection. I work with both general population clients and NDIS participants, helping people move better, build strength, and feel more capable in their day-to-day life. I have experience supporting beginners, athletes, and individuals with physical or neurological conditions, and I adapt my approach to suit different abilities, support needs, and energy levels.
I take a calm, respectful approach and prioritize safe, functional movement, mobility, balance, and confidence-building. With qualifications in fitness and ongoing studies in Clinical Exercise Physiology, my goal is to meet people where they’re at and provide meaningful support that encourages independence, positive routines, and long-term wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Jordan. I’m 25 years old and have been living on the Sunshine Coast for the past three years. I’ve worked as a support worker for three years, transitioning into the role after a background in plumbing.
I have experience supporting young men in both community and active settings, including individuals with more complex needs. I focus on building trust, supporting emotional regulation, and encouraging independence through consistent routines and meaningful goals. I’m passionate about helping people recognize their strengths and work toward their full potential in practical, achievable ways.
I enjoy supporting participants with physical activity, outdoor pursuits, and employment-related tasks, and I bring a reliable, calm, and supportive approach to my work.
