Our Teams
Operational Team
Jane - CEO
“From little things, big things grow”- Paul Kelly
As the CEO of Karinya, I find great resonance with Karinya's values, as they mirror my core principles. At the heart of our mission lies a deep commitment to hope, integrity, safety, and kindness. While many of us may take for granted the sanctuary of a safe and nurturing family home, where food and affection abound, we aim to cultivate such an environment within our organization.
We understand the importance of providing not only physical safety but also emotional security, where each member of our team is valued and respected for their unique contributions.
Karinya greatly values our partners and supporters who join with us in making a positive difference in a young person’s life. Together, we envision a future where every young person feels empowered, valued and ready to take on the world!
Patsy - Programs Team Leader
‘Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be outrageous. Go the whole hog. Make sure everything you do is so completely crazy it’s unbelievable.’ – Matilda Roald Dahl.
I firmly believe that with the right opportunities, every young person has the potential to lead the world. It's crucial to recognise the incredible potential within our youth. As workers, we are responsible for walking alongside them on their journey, understanding that they may fall over along the way, and being a supportive bridge to help them succeed.
Operational Support Team
Cass - Finance Officer
Arlene - Tenancy Officer
If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run, then walk; if you can't walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.
I was seeking a career shift that offered both personal fulfilment and the chance to make a real impact. Working at Karinya aligns with those goals by providing an opportunity to support and assist young people in need, which can be incredibly rewarding.
Supporting a team that helps young people with accommodation needs is incredibly meaningful. Knowing that your efforts contribute to something greater is a good feeling.
Crisis Accommodation Team
Tasha - Short Term Accommodation Coordinator
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” — Brené Brown
At Karinya, we strive to be the bridge between challenges and solutions, building hope and resilience in the lives of the young people we support, reminding them that they are not alone and that safety is not just a promise but a fundamental right.
Karuna - Youth Support
As beautifully expressed by writer Maya Angelou “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them"; at Karinya we focus on assisting young women who are facing homelessness as a result of challenging life events without them having to be limited by this, and providing them tools and support to empower themselves to be independent strong women who are capable of leading the world by their examples.
Jill - Youth Support
One tree can give life to a forest,
One smile can start a friendship,
One hand can uplift a soul,
One idea can shape the future,
One candle can wipe out darkness,
One laugh can conquer gloom,
One ray of hope can lift your spirits,
One touch can show that you care,
One life can make a difference,
Be that "one" today. (unknown)
I have been working with Youth in Launceston for over 20 years but only recently moved to Karinya. At Karinya, I have found one of the most supportive teams I have ever worked with to both their staff and clients. The celebration of the achievements of our clients is extremely rewarding and I hope to be doing this for a long time to come:)
Rachel - Youth Support
“Step with care and great tact, and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act”
-Dr. Seuss
Working with young people has always been a passion for me. I love being a part of youth development and seeing an individual grow. It’s an honour to work at Karinya and to have the opportunity to guide young people and see them tackle individual goals in a safe and supportive environment.
Mohana - Youth Support
“We rise by lifting others. “
Karinya gives me the opportunity to make a direct and tangible impact on young people's lives. Helping shape and guide young minds can be incredibly rewarding – I love what I do!
Louise - Youth Support
“You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending”. C.S.Lewis
I have had connections with Karinya on a couple of different fronts for a number of years and it is now amazing that I now work there. I have always loved helping young people to be their best version of themselves, regardless of what life has presented them with. Empowering young people to be strong, independent and confident in who they are, is such a privilege. Karinya's values and genuine care ensure the young people they support get the best possible chance of success.
KYM Team
Janelle - KYM Case Manager
“Working in the Karinya Young Mums program is an incredibly rewarding experience and a source of profound satisfaction. Supporting and engaging with young mothers and their babies is both a privilege and a joy, and witnessing the genuine bonds and resilience they embody is profoundly inspiring. The commitment to empowering families and fostering a supportive community resonates deeply with me, driving my passion to contribute to positive change. It's not just a job; it's a fulfilling journey of compassion, connection, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of young mothers and their precious little ones. Being part of Karinya Young Mums provides a unique platform to make a difference, and it's an honor to journey alongside these remarkable individuals in their transformative process.”
Sarah - KYM Group Educator
“It’s lovely spending time with our mum’s and bub’s at Group; each week there are new developments as well as observing the support and encouragement offered amongst mum’s. It doesn’t feel like a “job”; it’s just a delight to be a part of their growth and offering new experiences/activities within a supportive environment”.
Toni - KYM Case Manager
"Be the change that you wish to see in the world." – Mahatma Gandhi.
Working hand in hand with youth, young parents, and their precious babies is an extraordinary privilege brimming with boundless potential and profound impact. Each interaction is a chance to cultivate resilience, nurture dreams, and foster a sense of belonging. Together, we can create a supportive community where every young person and parent feels valued, heard, and empowered to overcome obstacles and reach for the stars. Through our collective efforts, we sow the seeds of hope and possibility, creating a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.
KYTT Team
Courtney - KYTT Case Manager
“We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future.”
Every day presents an opportunity to positively impact young people's lives, supporting them through various challenges and milestones. The sense of purpose derived from working with youth is truly remarkable, as I witness the resilience and growth of the youth I work with. It's gratifying to contribute to their journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and personal development. The unique blend of challenges and joys in this role keeps me motivated.
Mohana - Living and Life Skill Educator
“We rise by lifting others. “
Karinya gives me the opportunity to make a direct and tangible impact on young people's lives. Helping shape and guide young minds can be incredibly rewarding – I love what I do!.