Meet The Team
Annabel Yagos
Founder/Director/ Key Worker/ Early Intervention Specialist
Annabel Yagos
Founder/Director/ Key Worker/ Early Intervention Specialist
After being involved in a house collapse and acquiring a severe brain injury, my journey began with many surgeries and exploration of health practises to support whole body healing and repair. My early exposure to holistic healing specifically through physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, osteopathy, naturopathy, and sound learning practices, shaped my beliefs and understanding in my own ability to heal and move beyond any previously limiting beliefs about what I was, or was not, going to be capable of. With extensive experience and study across areas including education, early childhood, community services, mental health & neuroscience, and psychology, I have a range of knowledge and lived experience with trauma and disability that has formed my unique approach to what I do. I do not believe in ever putting labels or expectations on what children can achieve for themselves. With the right supports, children lead the way in their health journeys and reveal their true potentials.
Lauren
Assistant Director & Positive Behaviour Therapist
Lauren
Assistant Director & Positive Behaviour Therapist
Hello! I am a Positive Behaviour Support Therapist with over 16 years of experience working with young people. My background includes roles as a primary school teacher, learning support assistant, and childcare worker, supported by a Bachelor of Education and a Diploma in Children’s Services. I’m also developing a keen interest in psychology, enhancing my holistic approach to meeting each young person’s unique needs. I believe that understanding how children learn and experience the world differently is essential to providing effective support. By working closely with families and support networks, I aim to create nurturing environments where children feel valued and empowered. My passion lies in building resilience, managing anxiety, and nurturing self-confidence so that every young person I work with can recognise their strengths, embrace their potential, and truly flourish.
Amy
3IC/ Key Worker/ Early Intervention Specialist
Amy
3IC/ Key Worker/ Early Intervention Specialist
My background is in early childhood, working as both an educator and director, and running a family day care service following the birth of my second child. More recently, my work has been with families who have little ones that need to access developmental supports through the community, or via the NDIS. I have a passion for early childhood education and intervention and am always amazed at what children are capable of when given the tools they need. I also have keen interest in psychology and am currently studying my master’s in social work, with my goal to support families and children with trauma and advocating for neurodivergent people. I am excited to be able to support your family the best way I can, watching your child grow and develop alongside you.
Kirralee
Senior Paediatric Speech Pathologist
Kirralee
Senior Paediatric Speech Pathologist
With over five years of experience as a speech pathologist, I specialize in working with children to help them communicate with confidence. I am passionate about making a positive impact in young lives and I bring empathy, patience, and creativity to every session. I also have an interst in learning and developing my skills in the Hanen program which I hope to bring to Leading Lights in the future! Outside of work, I enjoy curling up with a good book, spending quality time with my family, and exploring the outdoors with my dog.
Celia
Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist
Celia
Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist
I am a paediatric occupational therapist specialising in developmental delay, ASD and ADHD, and I'm passionate about supporting young children and their families through the different stages of development. I find the greatest reward in seeing progress unfold over time - no matter how small - helping children build confidence and independence in their everyday lives. I bring an empathetic and dedicated approach to my work, and I value building strong, supportive relationships with the families I work alongside. Outside of the clinic, I'm a busy mum of three and enjoy spending time with my family, often unwinding with a puzzle together. I have extensive overseas travel and lived experience, so bring an exciting mix of cultural learning and experience to my work.
Amie
Allied Health Assistant (OT)
Amie
Allied Health Assistant (OT)
Amie here. After years of mastering the beautiful chaos of the childcare industry, I decided it was time for a major plot twist. I am currently retraining my brain as a student Occupational Therapist at the University of Canberra and have truly found my calling. My mission is simple: empowering people to do the things they love. I believe therapy should be effective but never boring, which is why I love bringing my creativity for arts, crafts, and Lego building into how I engage with others. Away from study, you will usually find me connecting with my community, skiing down a mountain, or swimming in the ocean with my favourite people.
Nester
Key Worker, Counsellor & Positive Behaviour Practitioner
Nester
Key Worker, Counsellor & Positive Behaviour Practitioner
I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my role, working with children across all ages, identifying gaps in their development and scaffolding therapy recommendations to meet children in their space. I have a particular passion for working with the whole family unit and supporting growth not just in-clinic, but at home too. Outside of my work, I am a proud Mother of adult children, I enjoy theatre and The Arts, and love immersing myself in nature and culture.
Bianca
Social Worker & Counsellor
Bianca
Social Worker & Counsellor
I am a passionate social worker, advocate, and mentor with a diverse background in community development, mental health, and empowerment programs. With over a decade of experience as an amateur and professional boxer, I has represented Australia on the world stage, using sport as a tool to build confidence and resilience. Beyond boxing, I am dedicated to supporting marginalised youth, women, and individuals with disabilities, running peer-mentoring programs and advocating for those often left without a voice. I hold a degree in International Relations and Community Development and a Master’s in Social Work. My experience spans HIV/AIDS prevention programs in South Africa, disability and youth services in the ACT and Central Coast, and policy work within the ACT Assembly. With a strong commitment to social justice, I bring a trauma-informed, holistic approach to supporting individuals and families.
Carinna
Key Worker & Early Intervention Teacher
Carinna
Key Worker & Early Intervention Teacher
Hello Leading Light families, I am a qualified early childhood teacher and counsellor. I am passionate about fostering inclusive, nurturing environments where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. I believe deeply in amplifying the voices of children, understanding their unique perspectives, and supporting their growth in a way that respects their individuality. I am also a Mother, and this fuels my passion for seeing children achieve goals and supporting them to go beyond their own beliefs and expectations of themselves. With a commitment to inclusion and holistic support, I strive to create spaces where children and their families can flourish together and can't wait to grow to know all who come into my care at Leading Lights.
Charlotte
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
Charlotte
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
Hello! I am a proud Mum of two girls, previously a teacher, and I am a lover of books, word puzzles and coffee! I have a Bachelor in Education specalising in Early Childhood Education and I have worked in a variety of education settings such as primary schools, early learning centres and daycare settings. I am currently delving into learning about trauma informed care and practice to further enhance my own education. I love working with younger children and thrive watching them meet their goals and grow into who they are meant to be. I wholeheartedly believe that all children have a place in this world and should be allowed the opportunity to learn and be the best they can be, with no limitations placed upon them.
Gabriella
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
Gabriella
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
I am a Key Worker and Early Intervention Teacher, bringing over 25 years of experience supporting children and young people aged 0-18 with disability and additional needs. My career spans home, community, and early learning settings, including at PEDAL Early Intervention, Shaping Outcomes, and numerous other school-based positions. I am passionate about the key worker model — walking alongside families in their everyday environments, building confidence and capacity in both children and the people who love them most. Music has always been a big part of my life, and I believe deeply in its power as a therapeutic tool to support communication, social, and cognitive development. I am excited to build meaningful relationships with the families of Leading Lights and and committed to helping children reach their potential and live a full and independent life.
Gabriella
Key Worker & Low-Level Laser Therapist
Gabriella
Key Worker & Low-Level Laser Therapist
I have been a pioneer or a trail blazer myself most of my career. I was born in Hungary, the birthplace of Low-Level Laser therapy. As a child, I was treated with red light for many years due to various and ongoing childhood illnesses. This filled my ambition to learn about natural therapies and learn from nature. I was fortunate to study at Hungarian University of holistic approaches to early intervention. I have 30 years of experience in rehabilitation with children - mainly focusing on complex disabilities. My passion is to go beyond what's possible and to achieve at my highest potential. I am honoured to be a part of Leading Lights as an organisation and look forward to serving families to the best of my abilities. Red and infrared light is part of our natural-light spectrum that has wonderful benefits! As we are becoming more disconnected from our environment, we are "rediscovering the benefits of nature."
Lauren G
Early Intervention Key Worker & Counsellor
Lauren G
Early Intervention Key Worker & Counsellor
Hello! I am so grateful to be joining the team at Leading Lights. I have a Bachelor of Counselling, specialising in children and families and have furthered my studies in a few relative areas since graduating including becoming a Circle of Security group facilitator. I have spent the last 5 years working as a Counsellor, supporting families in the Perinatal period of life and also have worked as a student and family counsellor in a primary school. I am a Mum of 2 kids, aged 7 and 4 - my children are the very reason behind my passion in supporting families and children, and I am really looking forward to sharing that passion through supporting the families at leading lights. When I’m not at work or running the kids to the next after school activity, you will find me hidden away with my kindle, painting (badly!), or baking!
Vanessa
Nutritionist
Vanessa
Nutritionist
I changed career to become an Integrative and Functional Medicine Nutritionist due to my lived experience of chronic illness including gut health, autoimmune disease, skin conditions and mould illness. I bring empathy, compassion and the ability to 'join the dots' and take a root cause approach enabling them to regain their health. I embrace functional medicine testing (such as GI-Map gut microbiome, OMX metabolomic organic acid urine, Smart DNA Advanced Pathways nutrigenomics, HTMA hair tissue mineral analysis and more) where appropriate, helping my clients to get answers.
Chantelle
Counsellor & Guidance Officer
Chantelle
Counsellor & Guidance Officer
Hello everyone! I have almost 20 years of experience working across primary and high school settings. Over the past ten years, my focus has been on teenagers as a classroom teacher. I recently completed a master’s degree in School Guidance and Counselling, which provided me with a foundation for working holistically with families and young people. I am passionate about supporting parents and children through challenges such as school refusal/school can’t, anxiety and enhancing wellbeing through strength-based and solution focused approaches. As a parent of a child with disability, I bring lived experience and empathy to support families because I truly ‘get it’. I have experience in navigating the difficulties of long hospital stays and advocating for my child during these times. I also understand the challenges of fitting everything in and making time for self-care, while building a support network during the newborn and early childhood phases. I believe that every young person and their family can thrive with tools to help achieve goals – no matter how big or small they may be. Outside of work, you’ll find me cooking, reading, going for a walk listening to a podcast, or meandering in my garden. I look forward to working with you soon
Sangay
Key Worker & Early Intervention Teacher
Sangay
Key Worker & Early Intervention Teacher
I’m someone who is naturally calm, observant, and thoughtful. I take my time to understand people, and I truly value meaningful connections over just talking for the sake of it. I love working with children because every child is different, and I enjoy discovering what works best for them. I especially enjoy creating a safe, gentle space where children feel comfortable, understood, and free to be themselves. When I am with children, I don’t think of myself as an adult. I become more of their playmate. It brings me back to my own childhood, and that's how I connect with them best. I find joy in the small moments—whether it’s a child trying something new, engaging a little longer, or simply feeling happy and secure. Those little changes mean a lot to me. Outside of work, I enjoy quiet moments, reading, reflecting, and staying connected to my values and beliefs. I believe in kindness, patience, and creating a positive impact in whatever I do. Fun facts about me, "I live with severe mysophobia. Cleanliness isn’t just a preference; it's a necessity for my peace of mind”. A silly but interesting about me-I think I have more child friends than adult ones!
Natasha
Receptionist
Natasha
Receptionist
I am excited to bring wealth of experience and knowledge to the Leading Lights Reception With extensive background in supporting my own family-owned business, I value everyone equally and enjoy assisting others to ensure smooth and warm support, always. I am a caring, kind and driven person who values connection, compassion and making others feel heard and looked after. I enjoy spending my time camping (crazy me!), being around animals and creating meaningful moments with my family. As a Mother of 5, I take pride in bringing a warm and positive energy to everything I do.
Jessica Driver
Receptionist
Jessica Driver
Receptionist
Having grown up in Canberra, I’ve always loved being part of a close-knit community and connecting with the people around me. My career journey began in hospitality, where I discovered my passion for working with people, building relationships, and creating positive experiences — skills that have stayed with me. I followed my love for working with children into a role as an early childhood educator in a Montessori setting, spending two wonderful years supporting children’s independence, curiosity, and development during their early learning years. Helping children grow in confidence and discover the world around them quickly became one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Transitioning into recruitment, I spent five years building strong administration, organisation, and communication skills in a fast-paced environment. This experience strengthened my ability to connect with people, manage competing priorities, and create welcoming and professional experiences. I hold a Certificate III in Education Support, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and a Certificate III in Business Administration. Above all, I’m passionate about working with children and feel incredibly lucky to play even a small role in making a positive difference in their lives. Looking ahead, I hope to continue growing in this field and one day make an even greater impact by working towards becoming a key worker, supporting children more closely in their individual journeys and helping them reach their full potential.
Stephen
Game Master & Key Worker Assistant
Nira
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
Nira
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
I have over 16 years of experience as a primary school teacher. Throughout my career, I've worked as a classroom teacher, STEM Specialist and English as an Additional Language teacher, supporting children from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. As someone with a Lao background, I understand the importance of culture, connection and belonging. Building strong, trusting relationships with children and their families is at the heart of my practice. I work collaboratively with families to create meaningful, family-centred strategies that support each child's confidence, independence and participation in everyday Life. I am passionate about celebrating every child's strengths and empowering families to help their children thrive
Maggie
Early Intervention Key Worker
Maggie
Early Intervention Key Worker
I am born and raised in Canberra, studied in the Gold Coast, then returned to start my own family roots here. I am passionate about approaching my clients with consideration of the 'whole picture' looking at their individual needs, goals and experiences, to help them reach their best individual outcomes. I have spent the last 15 months working in a perinatal mental health service. Prior to pursuing counselling, I was also an early childhood educator, and nanny. I have always loved the fun, connection and creativity that these positions allowed me. When I’m not at work, I’m enjoying the very best of Canberra’s foodie scene, exploring local markets, reading fantasy novels, going on walks with my partner and vibrant toddler, watercolour painting, collaging, and escaping to the South Coast for a dose of ocean air whenever I get the chance.
Nao (Nesta)
Key Worker, Counsellor & Positive Behaviour Practitioner
Nao (Nesta)
Key Worker, Counsellor & Positive Behaviour Practitioner
Hello! My name is Nao Tominaga, but you can call me Nesta. I’m from sunny and tropical Malaysia and have been in Australia for 4 years. I have a Bachelors in Arts, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Film studies, and a Masters in Counselling. I am a certified and practicing Clinical Counsellor associated with PACFA, and a registered Behaviour Support Practitioner with the NDIS. My mission is to bring a fun and creative lens to therapeutic support. I am passionate about bringing my expertise in Clinical Art and Play Therapy to Leading Lights, creating therapeutic services that are fun, inclusive, nurturing, and playful. I believe that meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, emotional safety, attunement, acceptance, and understanding. I am also committed to empowering and advocating for children and families, ensuring they feel seen, heard, supported, and capable of overcoming challenges while building resilience. An important part of my practice is holding space for guided exploration, curiosity, and non-judgement. I believe that children have an innate capacity to discover their own pathways to healing and growth when provided with the right support and environment.Guided by my lived experience and grounded in empathy and compassion, I am dedicated to supporting children and families so they can thrive and, one day, shine as brightly as the lights that inspire our work. Outside of my therapeutic work, you'll often find me playing video games, reading, drawing, baking, or video calling my dogs back home in Kuala Lumpur.
Karen
Receptionist
Karen
Receptionist
Hello! My name is Nao Tominaga, but you can call me Nesta. I’m from sunny and tropical Malaysia and have been in Australia for 4 years. I have a Bachelors in Arts, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Film studies, and a Masters in Counselling. I am a certified and practicing Clinical Counsellor associated with PACFA, and a registered Behaviour Support Practitioner with the NDIS. My mission is to bring a fun and creative lens to therapeutic support. I am passionate about bringing my expertise in Clinical Art and Play Therapy to Leading Lights, creating therapeutic services that are fun, inclusive, nurturing, and playful. I believe that meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, emotional safety, attunement, acceptance, and understanding. I am also committed to empowering and advocating for children and families, ensuring they feel seen, heard, supported, and capable of overcoming challenges while building resilience. An important part of my practice is holding space for guided exploration, curiosity, and non-judgement. I believe that children have an innate capacity to discover their own pathways to healing and growth when provided with the right support and environment.Guided by my lived experience and grounded in empathy and compassion, I am dedicated to supporting children and families so they can thrive and, one day, shine as brightly as the lights that inspire our work. Outside of my therapeutic work, you'll often find me playing video games, reading, drawing, baking, or video calling my dogs back home in Kuala Lumpur.
Nira
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
Nira
Early Intervention Teacher & Key Worker
I have over 16 years of experience as a primary school teacher. Throughout my career, I've worked as a classroom teacher, STEM Specialist and English as an Additional Language teacher, supporting children from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. As someone with a Lao background, I understand the importance of culture, connection and belonging. Building strong, trusting relationships with children and their families is at the heart of my practice. I work collaboratively with families to create meaningful, family-centred strategies that support each child's confidence, independence and participation in everyday Life. I am passionate about celebrating every child's strengths and empowering families to help their children thrive
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Join our team
Hiring Now
Join our team
I am born and raised in Canberra, studied in the Gold Coast, then returned to start my own family roots here. I am passionate about approaching my clients with consideration of the 'whole picture' looking at their individual needs, goals and experiences, to help them reach their best individual outcomes. I have spent the last 15 months working in a perinatal mental health service. Prior to pursuing counselling, I was also an early childhood educator, and nanny. I have always loved the fun, connection and creativity that these positions allowed me. When I’m not at work, I’m enjoying the very best of Canberra’s foodie scene, exploring local markets, reading fantasy novels, going on walks with my partner and vibrant toddler, watercolour painting, collaging, and escaping to the South Coast for a dose of ocean air whenever I get the chance.