DIRECTOR & FOUNDER

Fern is the heart behind Local Heart. With a Bachelor’s in Public Relations and Politics, and further qualifications in Marketing, Advertising, and Disability, Fern brings personal insight and professional strength to her work. Having experienced her own challenges in education and employment, she’s passionate about bridging the gap for others.

A strong believer in the phrase, “Give a man a fish and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime,” Fern focuses on building real skills, confidence, and community connection. She has experience in education, disability services, and First Nations work and is also a small business consultant. Fern leads everything with empathy, purpose, and of course—heart.

MENTOR & CAFÉ EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM TEAM LEADER

Alan is a family man with a natural warmth that makes everyone feel like part of the Local Heart family. With a Certificate IV in Disability Support and years of both professional and lived experience supporting loved ones, Alan brings empathy and practical wisdom to his mentoring.

He also has a background in trades and building, so whether it’s fixing things around the café or helping participants with hands-on skills, Alan is always ready to help. As the café’s team leader, he ensures everything runs smoothly.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY) & PARTICIPANT ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR

Jody brings heartfelt energy, creativity, and compassion to every role she takes on. With degree in Bachelor of Health Sciences, Diploma in Horticulture, she supports participants in a wide range of interests—from gardening and nature to creative projects and community activities.

She’s passionate about art, painting, pottery, and also a huge AFL fan. With a qualification in dog grooming, she has you covered whether it’s a participant—or the pooch—who needs a blow-dry. Jody’s approach to mentoring is down-to-earth, caring, and full of heart, always focused on building meaningful connections.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY) & Participant Reporting and Compliance

Gavin brings deep understanding and educational insight to his role at Local Heart. With years of experience teaching students with diverse needs and currently studying Counselling, Gavin has a strong awareness of the unique challenges and strengths of each participant.

He enjoys helping participants discover meaningful routines, hobbies, and personal goals. Whether it's getting outdoors, building fitness, or simply finding what brings someone joy, Gavin's calm nature and heartfelt approach ensure every session feels supportive, purposeful, and empowering.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Jay is a burst of sunshine and soulful support in our Local Heart team. With a Certificate III in Disability Support, Diploma in Art Psychotherapy, Multi-Style Yoga Teacher Training (200hr), Breathwork Facilitator training, and Embodied Movement Facilitation, Jay brings a rich and holistic skill set to her mentoring.

She has a deep background in both hospitality and community care, blending calm energy and creativity in every session. Jay is also a talented fire performer and can often be found twirling at community events—bringing literal spark to everything she does. Her support style is intuitive, empowering, and always led with heart.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Nicole joined Local Heart through the café program, where she discovered a natural passion for supporting individuals with disabilities. She has since transitioned into community-based support and continues to bring calm and thoughtful energy to her work.

Currently studying Law, Nicole is focused, reliable, and great at helping participants get organised—whether at home or with academics. She enjoys reading, gaming, and social and community-based activities. Nicole’s support is always heartfelt, purposeful, and focused on helping others improve their quality of life.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY)

Chanelle is a calming and nurturing presence at Local Heart, bringing mindfulness and connection to every interaction. A qualified Counsellor and Yoga Instructor, she inspires participants to embrace nature, slow down, and enjoy the present moment—whether it’s a peaceful walk in the hills or enjoying a beachside chat with ice cream in hand.

With extensive experience working in schools and mentoring young people, Chanelle supports participants to build confidence, self-awareness, and emotional wellbeing. Her work is guided by deep compassion and a truly heartfelt desire to help others grow and thrive.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY)

Maddie is a vibrant and supportive mentor who brings her studies in Occupational Therapy to life through every session at Local Heart. She also holds a Certificate III in Fitness and brings that energetic, goal-focused attitude to everything she does.

With experience in both mental health and education, Maddie has worked at Ramsay Adelaide Clinic and as an SSO in schools. She also has café experience as a barista and a love of hands-on learning. Maddie is sports-mad and passionate about showing others what they’re capable of—whether through board games, baking, or exploring hidden gems around Adelaide. Her support style is active, engaging, and always led with heart.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Chelsea brings fresh energy and a thoughtful spirit to her mentoring at Local Heart. Currently studying Psychology, she is dedicated to supporting people’s wellbeing and believes in the power of connection and compassion.

Her interests include weightlifting, hiking, beach walks, and discovering new places. With a strong love for travel and community engagement, Chelsea encourages participants to explore the world around them and build confidence through small steps. Her work is always guided by empathy, curiosity, and a big-hearted approach to helping others grow.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Nour is a grounded and compassionate mentor with a diverse background in care and hospitality. He holds a qualification in Youth Work and has experience in aged care, disability support, and in his family’s food business.

He brings a gentle but active approach to his mentoring and has a strong interest in boxing, fitness, and healthy living. As a proud father, Nour’s patience and empathy shine through in every interaction. Whether helping participants in the café or out in the community, Nour brings his full heart and attention to every moment.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Jackson is a heartfelt and friendly mentor who works across both our café and community programs. With a strong background in youth work and lived experience supporting others, Jackson is passionate about creating a safe space where participants feel seen and supported.

Through his church and youth group involvement, Jackson has cultivated a deep sense of community and service. He enjoys time outdoors, writing, and exploring film. His easygoing nature and ability to build genuine connections help participants grow in confidence and feel truly valued at Local Heart.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY)

Samia brings warmth, encouragement, and strong emotional intelligence to her role at Local Heart. With a Bachelor in Social Science (Criminology) and currently studying a Diploma in Counselling, she’s passionate about supporting others through life’s challenges.

Samia is also a gymnastics coach who has travelled internationally with her team. She loves dancing, music, and beach days with friends and family. Samia creates a heartfelt and empowering space for participants to build resilience, grow their confidence, and feel truly heard.

MENTOR (HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY)

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Psychological Science from the University of Adelaide and is currently undertaking her Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced). She is deeply passionate about supporting people from all walks of life, and her mentoring at Local Heart is grounded in empathy, warmth, and encouragement.

Lauren values authentic connection and brings calm, clarity, and presence to each session. She’s a nature lover—often found hiking, watching sunrises, or relaxing at the beach with friends. Her focus is always on helping others thrive, feel understood, and move forward with confidence and heart.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY)

Ailish is passionate about mental health and supporting young people to thrive. Currently in her final year of a Bachelor of Psychology (Counselling & Interpersonal Skills), she brings a strong understanding of emotional wellbeing to her mentoring at Local Heart.

With a background as an SSO in schools, Ailish is great at meeting participants where they are and helping them feel safe, heard, and empowered. She enjoys footy, arts and crafts, and board games—and creates a supportive environment where participants can express themselves and grow with heart.

MENTOR (COMMUNITY)

Elleigh blends academic insight with real-world empathy at Local Heart. She holds a Bachelor of Psychology, Certificate III in Fitness, and is a black belt (Shodan) in Shotokan Karate. Currently completing her Psychology Honours with a research focus on social belonging, Elleigh is passionate about inclusion and mental health.

She loves cozy video games like Stardew Valley, strength training, and board games. With over a decade of hospitality experience and current academic mentoring roles, Elleigh supports participants in finding their unique strengths and goals. Her approach is thoughtful, supportive, and filled with heart.