People with Purpose: Mind craft

Tell us a little bit about your background?

I’ve had the privilege of building a well-rounded career as a C-suite executive over the past 20 years in high-growth sectors such as consultancy, consumer goods, healthcare, tech and media.

Before stepping into the CEO role at Smiling Mind, I served as chief operating officer for three years. Now, at this critical time for mental health in Australia, I’m excited to be leading Smiling Mind to help bring the evolved mission of lifelong mental fitness to life.

I'm deeply passionate about helping children develop the mental fitness skills they need for lifelong wellbeing, supporting the generational change that can redefine mental health for the future.

What is Smiling Mind?

Smiling Mind is an Australian-based mental health not-for-profit that has been at the forefront of mental wellbeing innovation for over 12 years, helping minds thrive with evidence-based tools and resources.

We’re proud to have impacted the lives of millions of people globally. We aim to create generational change in mental health. So far, we’ve reached more than 12.8 million young people through our app and school-based programs – but this is just the beginning!

Why is it so important to take a multi-generational approach to mental health?

The relationship between people and their mental health shifts with each generation, and now more than ever, we need to transform our approach.

Mental health is at a crisis point, and despite much progress, stigma remains a serious issue. Today’s young people are navigating a challenging world without the tools they need to cope, leading to an unprecedented rise in childhood mental illness.

This shouldn’t be their reality – and it doesn’t have to be. We can take proactive steps to prevent this crisis from worsening, and to turn it around for future generations.

By leading a positive transformation in how we think, feel, talk about, and support mental health, we can make a lasting generational impact.

How do tools such as the Smiling Mind app help to do this?

Our mission is to help make mental fitness resources accessible so that everyone can establish lifelong habits for thriving.

The Smiling Mind app is a free evidence-based digital toolkit designed to empower people of all ages to learn, practise and build mental fitness through essential skills proven to enhance wellbeing – anytime, anywhere.

We also offer a primary school program that equips educators to teach social and emotional learning (SEL) from an early age.

The program provides ready-to-implement lessons and resources aligned with the Australian curriculum, supporting students and educators to develop foundational mental fitness skills. It also includes tailored training for teachers, school leaders and wellbeing coordinators, fostering a positive shift in school culture while enhancing overall mental health and wellbeing.

What's the one thing that people can do to support loved ones who may be struggling with mental health issues?

First, remind them they're not alone – many people are navigating mental health challenges, and support is available.

Showing you’re there for them, even if it’s just through listening without judgement, can make a big difference. Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional, a trusted friend, or a support service.

Our website offers a list of services for individuals, parents and young people who might need extra help.