Meet Our Team

Individual commitment to a group effort: That is what makes teamwork, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.

I engage and work closely with young people, relevant organisations, local businesses, community groups and education providers. My role is to establish educational and employment referral pathways for clients and also coordinate school-based mentoring programs. I am passionate about working collaboratively in supporting community initiatives.
Daniel Gobena

Manager

I grew up in a mountainous village and came to Australia in 2000 with my family. Prior to coming to Australia, I was a journalist at an Arabic radio station. I have always felt inspired to assist others in the pursuit of their goals, I am encouraged by colleagues and leaders who carry out their work in a respectful and empowering manner. I have a keen interest in different cultures, migration and people’s journey through resettlement. I am meticulous in my work and like everything to be in order, working in the not for profit world has definitely challenged my perfectionism and helped me to learn flexibility. I love gardening and reading!
Yousef Abou Ammar

Caseworker Manager

I come from Kabul, Afghanistan and I am fluent in Dari, with some knowledge of Pashto and Urdu. My background is in accounting and I spent three years working at a bank in my hometown. However, due to the war, I had to leave my country with my family and settled in Australia in 2002. I am proud to work as a caseworker with refugees at MECA, as my own experiences as a refugee have taught me the importance of helping others in similar situations. Witnessing the challenges and successes of people throughout their resettlement journey has reaffirmed my belief that everyone deserves to live with dignity and freedom.
Raeanne Ali

Bilingual Caseworker

Being a migrant in Australia, I can relate to the challenges faced by the migrants, and my passion to support them carved my path to MECA. I like to identify the needs of the community, instil a sense of belongingness, and solve community problems collectively. Helping them to overcome their employment and linguistic troubles and enhance their ability to engage in other forms of social and economic participation through MECA's volunteering program is my key goal. My experience as a teacher allows me to work with vulnerable kids by assisting them with MECA's Homework Support program. This country has provided me with ample opportunities and I am committed to giving back to society.
Neha Teli

Programs Manager & Community Development Officer

I am passionate about Youth because I get the chance to strengthen my community and connect with others. I also have the opportunity to give back and help the Young People around me, like I did when I was a Young Person.
Aaliyah Filipe

Community Development Officer & Youth Worker

I am passionate about youth because I believe every young person needs to be able to identify themselves and have someone who understands them in their world. I love the opportunity to be someone who will say I am here to help, and someone who will speak to every young person, I believe in you
Elvis Danso

Youth Worker

I am passionate about youth because as they form the rising generation, I strongly believe that I should contribute and equip them with knowledge relevant to them so that they are ready to lead their community when the time comes.
Youssef Al Makdissi

Youth Worker

I have always been fascinated by people's experiences and what brings them joy. Their journeys, the highs and lows, and how they find true happiness never cease to amaze me. As a devoted husband and father of two, I have come to realize that there is nothing more fulfilling than seeing others happy. My positive outlook and understanding are valuable assets that I bring to my work at MECA. With my diverse experiences in administration, IT, and design gained from working in both the corporate and NGO sectors, I am confident in my ability to make a difference.
Fadi Deeb

Administration & I.T Officer

Being part of the amazing MECA team is immensely rewarding. The team are passionate and inclusive in everything that they undertake and always works strongly together to get the best results.
Lynelle Newman

Accountant