Our People

Joh is the founder and CEO of LeaderLife. Trained as a paediatic Speech Pathologist in the early days, Joh worked in both the public and private sector before starting the precursor to LeaderLife, Leader In Development.

Through Leader in Development Joh began building the foundations for a model of community-focused, child-centred care that would best benefit children and their families facing challenges.

Joh believes that no child should be left behind; not matter the circumstance.

With strong community support, Joh has been able to develop a wide range of supports, develop more focused workshops and bring even more love to kids lives.

Born and bred in Bourke, in the far west of New South Wales, Uncle Frank always knew of his strong connections to Wiradjuri Country from his mother, Pat, who was born on the Talbragar Mission in Dubbo.

A Willae Wiradjuri man of the Tubbogah peoples, Uncle Frank moved from Bourke to Dubbo in the 1980s, and has since re-established and strengthened his links and connection to Country and community.

Uncle Frank joined us at Apollo House in 2012, initially employed to further our story-telling projects in East Dubbo's Apollo Estate. This early work grew with his role extending to include community work.

Uncle Frank believes it's a blessing to be someone the community trusts to share their stories with, and that these moments of sharing are sacred to him.

Mel joined Joh in the early days of Leader In Development, helping to build the quality and range of services for children and community and helping to manage the organisation as it evolved into LeaderLife.

Mel is the main point of contact for all general enquiries and workshop bookings.