Our Ambassadors
Children’s Rights Queensland has a team of Ambassadors that advocate and generate awareness of children’s rights across the state. Discover more below.
Lead Ambassador
Luke Twyford
Principal Commissioner of the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC)
Luke Twyford is the Chief Executive and Principal Commissioner of the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC). Luke is the Lead Ambassador for Children’s Rights Queensland and has held this role since 2022.
Community Ambassadors
Children’s Rights Queensland has appointed a range of Community Ambassadors across the state, who work to promote greater awareness of children’s rights and promote our initiatives in their communities. Learn more about the Ambassadors below:
Allicia Goodwin
Townsville
Allicia has worked in the early years sector for over 20 years, as a Teacher, Centre Director, and Regional Manager supporting early learning services across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast. Allicia is now an Area Manager in the Townsville region. She holds a Grad. Dip in Early Childhood Teaching and Adv. Dip in Children’s Services. Allicia is passionate about every child having the right to be safe, access high-quality early learning, and have a voice in their community. Her role as an Area Manager goes beyond operations, focusing on empowering teams and advocating for children’s rights.
Amanda Ayres
South East Queensland: Ipswich
I’m Mandie, a mother of 3 and have been working in early childhood education for 24 years. I’m passionate about making sure every child feels cared for, respected, and inspired. I understand how important it is to create a safe, fun, and supportive space for children to learn and grow. Over the years, I’ve built a wealth experience and knowledge that I bring to my work every day, always focusing on giving children the best start in life. I also believe in building strong, open relationships with children and families, encouraging everyone to be involved in our community.
Angie Casella
South East Queensland: Logan
Angie is the spark behind Curious Me. After becoming a mother, she discovered the transformative power of play, igniting a lifelong passion. With a background in business development and a deep commitment to connection and inclusion, Angie has become a dynamic force in playwork. Angie is dedicated to fostering environments where all children — especially children with developmental differences — feel seen and supported. Whether mentoring families or inspiring educators, Angie believes that play is the cornerstone of thriving children, and that a little dirt and a lot of curiosity can spark life-changing transformation.
Aunty Sharron mirii Bell
South East Queensland: Moreton Bay
Sharron mirii Bell is a proud Gamilaraay Wiradyuri woman, living on Yarun – Bribie Island and founder of Indigenous Insights, which focuses on Cultural Education and Well-being for children, families and educators. Sharron has over 35 years experience within early childhood and primary sectors and believes Children are the heart of our community. As a singer-songwriter, Sharron expresses her love for Children, Culture and Mother Earth through her music and has featured on ABC’s Playschool. In 2023, Sharron was honoured to create the song, ‘I Am Me’ for Children’s Rights QLD which was later developed into a Children’s book.
Belinda Raposo
South East Queensland: Gold Coast
I am an Early Childhood Educator, writer, creative artist and ukulele geek. Children’s early and emerging literacy is a passion of mine, and I embed a strong creative arts-based approach in my work with children. I advocate for and support a holistic approach to education, based on equality, equity and respect for all. I am a passionate advocate for the rights of the child and believe Australia has the potential to be a strong leader in Children’s Rights. I believe a united front where the wellbeing of children is concerned, and a bipartisan approach to advocacy in Early Years is crucial.
Bianca Renting
South East Queensland: Brisbane
My name is Bianca, I am the project designer and director of Qmech Industries design study teach tm. We create and design personalized learning programs for art music and study support for children in the Greater Springfield area. For 13 years, I’ve been deeply involved in the Greater Springfield Community, dedicating 8 years as a volunteer with the Westside Community Care Network. My passion for working with families in need is at the core of my community involvement. Since 2013, I’ve led complimentary art and music workshops, tailored for local homeschool and distance education families, as well as those facing financial challenges. I’ve also hosted free music and art tuition, providing crucial guidance to young families. My commitment extends to showcasing the talents of children and young families at carefully orchestrated concerts, collaborating with local community groups and participating in festivals. As a member of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, I balance my community engagement with academic pursuits—a current student at the University of Southern Queensland, pursuing a Bachelor of Human Services with a major in Counselling.
Carolyn Seri
Townsville
I’m based in North Queensland and work as a psychologist with children and founder of ZingPinMe Psychology. I support neurodivergent children and young people through playful, evidence-based approaches that empower them to understand their emotions and grow in confidence. I believe advocating for children’s rights means amplifying their voices, respecting their individuality, and ensuring every child feels safe, seen, and supported. I’m passionate about building bridges between kids and their communities through creativity and connection. A fun fact about me: Is I have two therapy dogs, Pearl and Maple.
Crystal Lynne
Central Queensland
My name is Crystal, and I’m a proud mum of five children, aged between 7 months and 14 years. I’ve been working in the early learning sector for nearly 24 years, and I absolutely love it. Supporting children to learn about their rights is something I’m deeply passionate about, and I’m equally committed to helping educators grow in their understanding of children’s rights too. I also enjoy connecting with and supporting my local community through outreach and engagement.
Dannika Patterson
South East Queensland: Redland
Dannika Patterson is a Brisbane-based author and presenter with degrees in psychology and journalism. She has written numerous books for children including Jacaranda Magic, Hedgehog the Wonder Dog and The Big Book of Rights. Her children’s books are used widely as resources in Australian homes and schools, helping open relatable conservation about important topics. Dannika enjoys visiting schools, kindergartens, libraries and festivals to share her books and interactive story-driven workshops. Her mission is to use her skills to educate, empower and inspire children in a warm, safe and joyful way.
Donna Wynn
South East Queensland: Ipswich
My career spans 30 years in early childhood in various modes of services including early childhood education and care and Queensland state schools. I have a specific interest in teaching and learning for children aged 0-5 years and view early childhood as the most important time for learning and development and for this to occur through play. I actively work with schools, early childhood services and community partners to advocate for the rights of children and for their voice to be fundamental to inform policy and system changes that may impact on their future.
Emma Murphy
South East Queensland: Brisbane
I’ve been working in the early childhood sector since 2008, and every day has been a joy. My passion lies in creating the best outcomes for all children, advocating for them, and being their voice. I strive to live each day to its fullest and encourage those around me to do the same.
It’s always been a dream of mine to have my own early childhood Centre, which opened in 2024. I have loved having the opportunity to build a community surrounded by people that put children first.
Giselle Rayward
South East Queensland: Brisbane
I’m Giselle, an early childhood education professional with my own business supporting centres across Southeast Queensland. With nearly three decades of experience, I was inspired by my own teachers who showed me the profound impact educators can have on young lives. I’m passionate about creating positive changes in children’s lives through quality education and care. I believe advocating for children’s rights is essential to ensuring every child has the opportunity to flourish in their early years. Fun fact: My business name was inspired by Adelie penguins, who exemplify the nurturing community spirit I strive to foster in early education settings.
Gloria Sherlock
South East Queensland: Brisbane
Gloria is a mother of three boys and grew up in rural Queensland on her parent’s farm with two sisters who have children of similar ages to her boys. She has served for 10 years as Chair of Playgroup Queensland Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation that connects children, families and communities.
Gloria is passionate about promoting every child’s right to play. She has also served as Director and Vice Chair for the Playgroup Australia Board and is current Director of Council of the Ageing. Gloria feels it is such a privilege to serve organisations that support children and communities.
Isabella Gibson
South East Queensland: Gold Coast
My name is Bella and I’m based on the Gold Coast, though I was born and raised in the small regional town of Goondiwindi. I’ve been working in early childhood care since 2020 and hold a Diploma in Early Years Education. I believe children are among the most vulnerable members of our society, so it’s essential that they grow up in safe and nurturing environments. By doing so, we can help break the cycle of inequality and build a stronger society—one where all children are safe, educated, and healthy.
Janet Souter
Central Queensland
Holding a Master of Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor of Teaching Early Childhood and Diploma in Early Childhood, Janet has worked as an Educator, Director, Consultant, Lecturer, Area Manager, Principal of an International School of the Arts, Education Manager and Pedagogical Researcher and Editor in early childhood education over the past 30 years in Australia, Vietnam and Canada. She currently works as an academic in early childhood education at Victoria University working with pre-service teachers.
Jessica Christensen
South East Queensland: Ipswich
Hey there, I’m Jess and I am delighted to be a returning ambassador for 2025. I am highly passionate about the early years, particularly children’s development between birth-8yrs which is an area I continue to grow my knowledge in. I am currently studying to complete my Master of Early Childhood and Primary teaching degree while working in the early childhood field which enables me to advocate every day for children’s voices to be heard and acknowledged. Other passions of mine include playing saxophone and piano, as well as spending time with my beautiful family.
Julianne McGuire
South East Queensland: Brisbane
Dr Julianne McGuire, PhD(ODTA), GradCertLaw (Health Law), BA, DipEd, Trainer/Assessor, BF Counsellor/Community Ed., AFHEA, RPHNutr.QUT JFM Award, Education Innovation. Julianne a South East QLD Researcher/Teacher, Health Ed Consultant and Community ABA volunteer, over 20 years in various roles where protecting rights of children is central. Her experience includes national and state program management, preventative health advocacy/implementation, researching and translating strategic areas for optimal paediatric development, Early Childhood Education Care (ECEC) reform and school health programs. Member of National Nutrition Network, Mater Health, Government Advisory Board, avid violinist mumof4(!), immediate past-president, Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra. Her passionate research is the nexus of Health Law, policy/risk, responsive nutrient security for brain neurodevelopment and collective-efficacy protecting children’s rights.
Kaitlin Bender
South East Queensland: Redland
I am deeply committed to promoting inclusion and advocating for children’s rights, striving to create environments where every child is valued, respected, and given equal opportunities to thrive. With a focus on ensuring access to education, health care, and protection from harm, I work tirelessly to dismantle barriers that marginalise vulnerable children. I believe in empowering young voices and fostering diverse, supportive communities that celebrate differences. Through collaborative efforts with organisations and advocacy groups, I aim to bring about systemic change that ensures all children, regardless of their background or circumstance, can enjoy their fundamental rights and live with dignity.
Karen Tyrell
South East Queensland: Logan
Karen Tyrell is an award-winning Brisbane child-empowerment author, Children’s Rights Ambassador and Gifted & Talented school teacher. In 2024, Karen won the Speech Pathology Australia BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD with picture book, Let’s Play (Play Matters Australia). In 2023 Karen wrote Logan Then & Now celebrating past and present and indigenous history. In 2023, Karen’s humorous mental health novel Andy & Ghost Boy placed second in the Forevability Awards. Karen is a keynote speaker and writing workshop facilitator, presenting mental health, eco, local history and children’s rights topics. Karen performs reader’s theatre with costumes and props in schools, libraries, and festivals. www.karentyrrell.com
Karly Sheppard
Gold Coast
Been working with primary school age children across Queensland for over 20 years. Working with almost 800 team members daily to deliver quality and engaging programs in almost 100 outside school hours care services.
My number one reason for getting out of bed each day is to support team members to help every child to succeed.
I live by the quote “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.
Ky Garvey
Brisbane
Ky Garvey is a Picture Book author and host of Totally Lit, an award-winning podcast celebrating literature. She chats with Australian publishing creatives, sharing their publishing journey & discussing their creative practices. Ky also writes short stories & is a passionate advocate within the disability and carers space. Her debut picture book, Easy Peasy, launched in February 2023 through EK Books. Ky’s writing has been included in several anthologies & has been recognised in several writing competitions. In 2024, Ky was proud to launch the Inaugural Totally Lit Micro Fiction Prize.
Leanne Brummell
South West Queensland
Leanne has lived in St George, South West Queensland for 30 years and works for the local Catholic Parish two mornings a week. She was previously a teacher aide and tutors in literacy and numeracy for all ages. She volunteers with an international group of parents (PFFG) engaging world leaders on children’s rights related to climate change and is one of the founding mums of Australian organisation Parents For Climate. Leanne was part of the 2022-23 Climate Parent Fellowship run by Our Kids Climate. Fav quote – “We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”
Linda James
South East Queensland: Brisbane
I am a passionate advocate for children’s rights, dedicated to creating a world where every child can thrive. I have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about issues affecting vulnerable youth, including education, health, and protection from abuse. I have extensive experience in collaborating with local, state and national organizations and communities to promote and implement policies, training and programs that prioritise children’s needs and empower young voices. I believe in the power of community engagement to effect meaningful change. Through my efforts, I hope to bring awareness and inspire others to consider children’s rights and well-being in their everyday lives.
Louise Mead
South East Queensland: Brisbane
A dedicated Education Leader who is focused on closing the gaps for our First Nations Children. With a dedication towards prison reform and advocating for Children’s Rights in Detention, I possess a strong background in youth incarceration. With previously being Australia’s youngest Principal and QLD’s Young Leader of the Year, I aim to continue to advocate for our most vulnerable children and make their future a pathway full of healing and hope.
Majella Ritchie
South East Queensland: Ipswich
My name is Majella Ritchie and I am so proud to advocate for children’s rights. Through my extensive work in South East Brisbane in Youth Detention, I aim to close the gaps for our First Nations Children. My background in Education and specifically previously being the youngest principal in Australia has allowed me to have a voice for our children and raise important issues like speaking up for our most marginalised children. I am proud of to be an Ambassador for Children’s Rights Queensland and look forward to sharing the work they do. A fact about me is I recently published my first book!
Mandy Alborn
Moreton Bay Region: Sandstone Point
Mandy is an Educational Mentor. She lives and works in the Moreton Bay Region in South East Queensland. For over 25 years Mandy has worked and played in the Early Childhood Education and Care profession in many roles. Mandy is a mother of four children and 2 grandchildren. She holds a Diploma of Education (Early Learning) and a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Learning) and is studying at UniSC a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
Professional Mandy spends each day looking at ways to support Early Learning Educators and families and advocating for every child’s right to a childhood that meets their needs. Mandy is passionate about finding ways children can feel safe, learn, play and develop and connect with others.
Mary Cullen
Sunshine Coast
My name is Mary Cullen and I live in Beerwah, Queensland. I am the owner of Beerwah Family Day Care Service. I believe in providing a quality childcare service for the children of my community. I nurture each child’s interests at every level of their development. I advocate that children’s rights are respected and acknowledged. My unique service offers children a calming and natural resourced classroom where the children’s voice and family input is welcomed. I am passionate about exposing the children to an indigenous education through resources and workshops and encourage interactions with the resident animals to promote empathy, respect and responsibility.
Melanie Rolfe
South East Queensland: Brisbane
Melanie Rolfe is a psychosocial researcher currently working towards her PhD. Her work in paediatric palliative care and oncology centers around co-design of policy, programs, and resources, and understanding how traumatisation occurs in serious illness. She is passionate about the use of play, connection, and movement in the processing of trauma and envisions a world where opportunities for these are embedded in our health systems, for the child patient and their support systems.
Melanie Excell
Gold Coast
Melanie has over 20 years’ experience in the Early Learning and Education industry and is a university trained teacher, holding a Bachelor of Education. Melanie is passionate about early education and preparing children for a successful future. Melanie has worked in various roles in the Early Childhood and Education sector including teaching, Centre Director, Area Manager of both small and large groups of centres across Australia and more recently a senior management position in a large childcare company. As a mother of two beautiful boys Melanie is able to manage her centres wearing many hats, ensuring that our centres are meeting the needs of the parent and the child.
Michelle Worthington
South East Queensland: Redland City
Michelle Worthington is an accomplished writer, director, and producer at CLANN Productions, where she crafts compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. With a passion for storytelling that began in her youth, Michelle has developed a distinctive voice in the industry, focusing on diverse and inclusive themes. Her work has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, showcasing her ability to blend creativity with authenticity. As a leader in her field, she is dedicated to mentoring emerging talent and championing innovative projects. Michelle continues to push the boundaries of filmmaking, aiming to inspire and entertain through her unique vision and artistry.
Mynette Fulmer
SEQ – Logan
I am a proud Wiradjuri women and I live and work on Yuggera land. I am fortunate to work as a centre manager and also support manager for Active Kids Early Learning Centre. I have always had a passion for the early childhood sector and who I am as individual and professionally is strongly influenced by Rita Pearson and a statement she made early in my carer “that every child deserves a champion” I believe that every child truly needs someone in their corner to be their voice. Fun fact I am also a survivor of 6 open heart surgeries.
Paola Ledesma-Toro
South East Queensland: Brisbane
Paola is a mother and wife who advocates and promotes children’s rights in the Spanish-Speaking communities in Brisbane. She believes that Children’s rights are for all children regardless where they come from, their background or their language.
Paola loves travelling and spending time with her family. She also enjoys technology and board games.
Roushini Devi
Darling Downs & South West Qld
I focus on children’s ABILITIES and like to ADD FUN for them to explore their own creative skills to enjoy the present moment and to create happy memories. It is important for me to protect children at a risk of harm, not having their needs met, or are being denied rights.
Being an advocate provides gets me involved and understanding issues children are facing plus I am proactive about accommodating for children’s needs and presenting solutions. To share something new and exciting with children is my way of giving and staying connected with them.
