The Manda Mae Story
MandaMae.com.au was born out of a passion for expressionism and individuality. Diagnosed with ADHD in 2014 when it wasn’t so cool to be neuro-spicy, I was able to delve into this space deeper and find the positive traits of being able to multi-task in my head!
The Manda Mae journey began with 1 small idea – to provide an educational experience that has a lasting impact and opens your mind to other peoples experiences. Over the years, I’ve grown the small idea to a largely diverse, flexible and fun workshop. The Lived Experience Project simulates diversities in a guided group activity to open up for broad discussions. It’s perfect for workplaces, schools and even as an icebreaker activity at conferences.
Within the growth of Mandamae.com.au was more than 1 small idea, but many. Currently being developed are a series of children’s books to further the reach of the Live Experience Project message. Georgie & Friends books are gentle but eye opening, quirky and deep but most importantly, they help our young receive a much needed message. “Different is a beautiful blessing, different is my favourite compliment”
2 other projects that I have on the way; I am developing The Live Experience Project in an online course with a focus on intersectionality, bringing many different beauties to this learning.
Mandamae.com.au is not all serious and learning though, my last project that started many moons ago and will be completed (haha a little ADHD joke!) is in the planning and development stages and soon to hit the manufacturers, so its unpublished for now, but it will be a big hit when its launched. Watch this space!
My mission is to advance inclusivity, amplify lived experiences, and spark meaningful change through creative advocacy, collaborative leadership, and inclusive education. Through Manda Mae and community-driven initiatives, I empower individuals and organizations to celebrate diversity, build connection, and create safe, courageous spaces where every voice is valued.
Values
At MandaMae.com.au, I am driven by the core values of innovation, quality, and community, striving to create products and services that not only meet but exceed the expectations of my customers.
Innovation is at the heart of what I do, continually seek new ways to enhance my offerings and provide unique experiences. Quality is paramount, ensuring that every course, product, and workshop is crafted with care and attention to detail. Community is the cornerstone of my operations, and I am committed to building a supportive and inclusive environment for all my customers. I am always seeking input from the community. If you would like to share you story, please don’t hesitate to contact me. The Lived Experience Project is not just my experiences, but is a collection from those who have joined me on my journey and shared their stories for me to share with others.
History
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I began my journey in 2008 working in employment services. As a qualified drug and alcohol worker I was able to assist and guide many to work on barriers to employment. This included learning about people, their struggles and listening to their stories of what got them to the point of such vulnerable places in their journey.
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This began an interest of delving deeper into the impact of co-morbidity and other impacts within a persons life.
I then began a journey in disability employment services, this opened my eyes to a whole new world and a new passion for how my presence can be a positive influence to others. Passionate to be an advocate and create uplifting opportunities for people, I moved into the world of NDIS with my best friend Kathie Denno.
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I was fortunate to have some amazing women beside me as we created Liberty Disability Services, a registered NDIS service provider. Together as directors, Kathie Denno, Elle Cooper and myself, along with Wendy James (now General Manager) we were able to build Liberty to be a strong organisation that has lead the way in genuinely working for people with disability.
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I was director at Liberty for nearly 7 years with a focus on Human Resources, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and the PRIDE team. I am grateful for the time and learning I had there and will continue to be a partner in services, community and friendship.
About Me
I’m a proud mum, wife, advocate, and creator—committed to family, community,
and inclusion.
My wife is a Yorta Yorta Wadi Wadi woman, and together, we’ve built a home full of warmth, strength, and unwavering support.
We’ve created a space where everyone feels valued, heard, and embraced for who they are.
We have two adult children and one young child, and our journey as parents has been one
of both profound challenges and immense joy.
Two of our children navigate life with disabilities, and one of them carries over 12 diagnoses, working with multiple therapists and juggling weekly appointments.
And yet, despite everything, his heart is full of love, laughter, and an unbreakable spirit. He is surrounded by the unwavering support and love of our massive family.
We wouldn’t have it any other way.
I am blessed to be both Tongan and Australian, a Methodist, and part of an extraordinary,
loving, and supportive family.
Beyond my family, I am fortunate to have a network of solid, loyal friends—true constants in my life who have stood beside me through every triumph and challenge. I treasure each person in my world, knowing that these connections are what make life truly meaningful.
Passions & Advocacy
I am deeply passionate about foster care and permanent care, having welcomed many children in need into our home. Providing safety, stability, and love is at the core of everything I do. Advocacy isn’t just something I believe in—it’s something I live. From supporting disability rights, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and Aboriginal communities to advocating within the human services sector, I dedicate my time and energy to creating meaningful change. Diagnosed with ADHD over a decade ago (before it was ‘cool’!), I’ve learned to embrace my creativity, adaptability, and drive—and now, with a little help from medication, I’m finishing all those projects I’ve dreamed of completing! Ok, kidding, most of the projects!
Creative Side
Beyond my work in advocacy, I have an undeniable love for event planning, travel, shopping, costume parties, and gala balls—because celebrating life should always be bold, fun, and full of flair! I also craft intricate 3D cakes using fondant (because every celebration deserves something sweet and spectacular).
Professional Expertise
With a background in strategic leadership, human resources, community sector management, and disability services, I hold multiple certificates, including:
- Graduate Diploma in Strategic Leadership
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
- Diploma in Management
- Advanced Diploma in Community Sector Management
- Diploma in Alcohol & Other Drugs
- Cert IV in Training and Assessment
- NDIS Compliance & Workforce Planning
- Mental Health First Aid & Suicide Intervention
- Permanent Out-of-Home Care & Foster Care Training
- Cultural Awareness & LGBTQIA+ Leadership Certifications
- …and many more.
Community & Volunteering
My commitment to inclusivity and advocacy extends beyond my career—into every corner of my community. I proudly volunteer across various initiatives, including:
- 2024 Geelong Council LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee
- Founding Member, QConnect Geelong
- Geelong Pride Health Action Group
- Previous Geelong Rainbow Inc Festival Committee
- Midsumma March Campaign with Liberty Disability Services
- Steptember & MS Walk, Run, Roll Campaigns
- …plus plenty of time spent cheering on my kids at every sporting event imaginable!
Through leadership, advocacy, creativity, and care, I strive to build a world where everybody feels valued, seen, and embraced—because different is a beautiful blessing, different is my favourite compliment and inclusivity is my life’s work.