We have an incredible team of directors who oversee our strategic direction and management to ensure that all vulnerable mothers impacted by crisis, isolation and discrimination can thrive with their newborns, in their communities.
CEO/Founding Director
Melissa has a Bachelor of Nursing Science, Graduate diploma in Midwifery & Postgraduate certificate in Sexual Health as well extensive experience both personally and professionally working with vulnerable mothers. Having been a teenage mother herself, Mel aims to see that vulnerable mothers have the support they need.
Melissa was named the 2023 QLD Australian of the Year Local Hero and also received a Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to Social Welfare. Melissa is a published author & a co-author on published research with the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Director/Mental Health Clinician
Breanna is a Registered Mental Health Clinician with a Bachelor of Behavioural Science and a Diploma of Health Science. Breanna is an advocate for young mothers with a focus on trauma-informed education and wrap around support during the Perinatal period.
Breanna is a co-author on published research with the University of the Sunshine Coast and a mother to two young daughters.
Chair
Leah is a General Counsel with a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce and further studies in Commercial Laws and Corporate Governance. Leah is passionate about supporting local women in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast and helping the not-for-profit sector through stronger corporate governance and business systems.
Leah is a past chair/director of Brisbane Women’s Club, past chair of UN Women Australia Brisbane Committee and active committee member of National Council of Women Qld and her local school and community neighbourhood watch group. Leah is a mum, in a family of 5, with 3 girls aged between 7-18; mum life is fantastically hectic!
Director
Kayla is passionate about community advocacy, lived experience engagement, and supporting vulnerable mothers and families.
Nearly a decade ago, as a young single mother, Kayla was one of the very first recipients of A Brave Life’s Baby Bundle program. She keeps the affirmation card from her bundle today … a reminder of the support and kindness she received during a pivotal time in her life.
Since then, Kayla has continued giving back through community initiatives, youth advocacy, and service design work supporting young people and families across Queensland. In a true full-circle moment, she now joins the A Brave Life board, bringing both lived experience and a deep passion for ensuring mothers feel supported, empowered and connected within their communities.
Director
Erin holds a Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama) and has built a dynamic, interdisciplinary career spanning the arts, education, and for-purpose sectors. Currently working in philanthropy at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), she cultivates partnerships that drive impact across both social causes and vital research.
Erin is deeply passionate about nurturing ventures that enable vulnerable individuals to thrive. Having experienced the challenges of the perinatal period firsthand, she advocates for women’s mental health and the powerful role of a supportive sisterhood in motherhood. Erin lives in Brisbane and is a proud mum to two young daughters.
Chair
Leah is a General Counsel with a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce and further studies in Commercial Laws and Corporate Governance. Leah is passionate about supporting local women in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast and helping the not-for-profit sector through stronger corporate governance and business systems.
Leah is a past chair/director of Brisbane Women’s Club, past chair of UN Women Australia Brisbane Committee and active committee member of National Council of Women Qld and her local school and community neighbourhood watch group. Leah is a mum, in a family of 5, with 3 girls aged between 7-18; mum life is fantastically hectic!