Meet our scholars

I am a father, youth worker, and social entrepreneur who has lived the same challenges I now work to change for young people across Australia. I founded Gnarly Neighbours with six skateboards and a vision to create safe, empowering spaces where young people can build confidence, resilience, connection, and community. Since then, it has grown into one of regional Victoria’s most impactful youth movements, engaging tens of thousands through skateboarding, wellbeing programs, employment pathways, creativity, and leadership. My vision for social change is simple: prevention through belonging and positive role modelling. I am passionate about showing young people what is possible when someone believes in them. I hope my journey gives inspiration and hope to others who have never been given opportunities or never believed in themselves and shows that they can become leaders who change their world. Outside of work you’ll find me skateboarding, exploring extreme sports, cooking for the people I care about, catching live music, or getting hands on with different art and craft projects that keep my creativity alive.