Graeme Kelly
CEO

Graeme's extensive professional background is as an experienced, successful CEO, executive, board director and consultant with organisations that make an important social impact in Victoria and beyond.

These leadership roles have been with acute health and emergency services organisations, as well as in disability, mental health, social procurement organisations. My strong “for purpose” focus has been augmented by experience in social enterprises and commercial businesses.   

This experience is underpinned by Masters level business and undergraduate psychology qualifications. Further study has included two programs at Harvard Business School and graduation from the Australian Institute of Company Directors program. 

Graeme is also a Non-Executive Director with Youth Live 4 Life and the Lancefield and Romsey Community Bank.  Graeme’s new role as CEO with Monkami builds on over 25 years in these roles and my professional focus now is to provide “shorter term for more impact” leadership. 

Alex Shepherd
Manager, Human Resources

Alex is a university degree qualified Human Resources professional with experience in various HR positions in the entertainment and manufacturing industry.  Alex thrives on building positive relationships and helping to create a work culture where people are valued, heard, respected and happy to contribute their knowledge.

In her previous roles she has helped build successful teams for infrastructure projects, such as the Gold Coast Light Rail and Queensland New Generation Rollingstock and managed the whole employee life cycle as HR Business Partner.

Alex is committed to lifelong learning and as such is currently undertaking a Course on Gender Equity with Chisholm Institute outside of work.  

In 2010 Alex came to Australia from Germany for a six-month working holiday. She has stayed ever since, embracing the Australian lifestyle and building a life in the Yarra Ranges with her husband and two children.

Mahnam Beigi
Manager, Finance

With strong not-for-profit experience in the finance area, Mahnam joined Monkami in 2023. Originally from Tehran, Iran, Mahnam relocated to Australia in 2006 to embark on a new chapter. Prior to her move, she served as Business Manager and signatory at Hazateb Tehran, a prominent company specialising in importing pharmaceutical and veterinary products. During this tenure, Mahnam adeptly managed operations during her employer's international travels. Her proficiency in English, honed through studies in translation in Iran, proved pivotal in her career progression.

In Australia, Mahnam pursued a business degree with a major in accounting, graduating from Swinburne University of Technology in 2010. Her fundraising volunteer work, later transitioned to Finance, enriching her expertise in accounting and finance under the mentorship of industry leaders. She successfully undertook and completed numerous complex projects in these fields, earning promotion to senior roles.

Outside of work, Mahnam is an avid cyclist and runner.  Before joining Monkami, Mahnam was cycling to work twice per week and enjoys running on weekends. 

Michelle Trustum
Manager, Compliance, Risk & Governance

Michelle holds a diploma in Legal Business Studies and is a qualified Project Practitioner specialising in quality frameworks and risk management within the not-for-profit sector. With over ten years of experience, particularly in the NDIS space, she has developed a strong understanding of auditing, compliance, and organisational improvement processes.

Throughout her career, Michelle has worked across various sectors, including NDIS, Pro-Choice Health, Mental Health, Family Violence, Aged Care, and Allied Health. She has successfully led initiatives to enhance business processes and ensure compliance with accreditation standards, managing audits and developing risk frameworks while fostering stakeholder engagement. Currently, she serves as the Board Chair for an NDIS provider, showcasing her leadership and commitment to the sector.

Michelle’s collaborative approach and effective communication skills highlight her advocacy for excellence and client safety in community services. Her dedication to quality systems and compliance will be a valuable asset in her role.

Ross Gurney
Manager, Compliance, Risk & Governance

Ross is a Masters-qualified governance and compliance professional with a strong background in the Not-for-Profit sector.

Passionate about values-driven organisations, Ross brings a collaborative leadership style and a proven track record in enhancing organisational governance.

He has successfully implemented ISO-aligned risk and compliance frameworks and supported board operations through strategic meeting management, policy reviews, and board member development.

Ross holds a Diploma of Governance from the Institute of Community Directors Australia and is recognised for his results-oriented approach, stakeholder engagement, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Richard Antonio
Manager, Specialist Disability Accommodation

Richard joined the organisation in 2022, bringing with him over 30 years of experience in the disability and community services sector. He holds a Certificate IV in Disability, and his career spans a diverse range of roles across predominantly not-for-profit organisations, including leadership in day services, accommodation programs, and area management.

Richard is deeply passionate about helping and supporting people with disabilities. He is committed to delivering high-quality services, advocating for inclusion, and ensuring that the voices of those he supports are heard and respected. His work is driven by a strong belief in human rights and the importance of person-centred practice.

He is known for his ability to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and think outside the box to find creative solutions. Richard’s leadership is grounded in empathy, innovation, and a genuine dedication to making a positive impact.

Tahlia Stephens
Service Coordinator

Tahlia has been a valued member of Monkami for six years, working across roles in administration, Support Coordination, and finance, building extensive knowledge of the organisation and sector. Along with qualifications in hospitality and real estate, she holds a Diploma of Community Services and is currently undertaking a Postgraduate qualification in Client Assessment and Case Management to ensure she is providing participants with high-level, best-practice supports as they deserve, and to further strengthen her expertise in the field.

Tahlia has a deep understanding of NDIS pricing, regulations, legislation, and funding requirements, making her a key resource for navigating complex processes. She prides herself on problem-solving and finding the answers to support individuals and teams effectively.

Committed to continuous learning, Tahlia actively seeks professional development opportunities, completing short courses in dementia, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, trauma-informed care and domestic violence to deepen her understanding of the needs of the people Monkami supports. This dedication ensures she stays up to date with the evolving NDIS and sector requirements.

A fierce advocate for people with disabilities, as well as their families, friends, and carers, Tahlia is passionate about promoting social change and fostering greater acceptance and inclusion within the community.

Nicholas Jacovou
CBS Coordinator

Nicholas brings over 20 years of experience in community services, having worked across a range of roles including support work, supervision, and management. Along with his professional expertise, he offers valuable lived experience, giving him deep insight into the challenges and strengths of people living with disability.

Nicholas joined the Monkami team in 2022 and holds a Certificate IV in Disability and a Diploma of Community Services – Case Management and is currently completing a second Diploma of Community Services to ensure he is keeping in line with current legislation,  sector requirements, and updates. As an Occupational Health & Safety representative, he is committed to fostering safe, supportive environments for both participants and staff.

Passionate about best practice and continuous learning, Nicholas has a particular interest in supporting individuals with behaviours of concern and is a strong advocate for the human rights of people with disability. He approaches every interaction as an opportunity to build confidence, nurture inclusion, and support people to live with dignity, independence, and joy.

Looking to the future, Nicholas aims to be part of building a world where people with disability are not only supported but truly empowered — where they have equal opportunities, strong voices in their own lives, and communities that embrace inclusion and respect. His goal is to continue leading with compassion, human rights, and evidence-based practice at the centre of his work, helping create a society where every person can live with dignity, purpose, and joy.

Kassia Fountis
CBS Coordinator

Kassia is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the community services sector, having worked across a diverse range of not-for-profit and for-profit organisations. Her expertise spans key areas including disability, homelessness, mental health, substance misuse, and forensic inpatient treatment. Kassia holds a Certificate IV in Disability and a Diploma of Community Services and is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Psychological Science at Deakin University.

Kassia joined Monkami in 2023 and, in addition to her role as CBS Coordinator, she is a Health & Safety Representative and an active member of Monkami’s Wellbeing Committee. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong ability to bring structure and clarity to complex service environments. She leads with a focus on empowering individuals to strengthen their own capabilities, build self-esteem, and expand their skill sets.

Kassia is deeply passionate about fostering inclusivity, promoting person-centred care, and building trust and practical engagement with participants. She is equally committed to supporting healthy workplace culture, ensuring that teams are valued, supported, and equipped to deliver high-quality, responsive care. Looking ahead, Kassia aims to continue driving systemic improvements in service delivery and workforce development, with a focus on building resilient, inclusive, and high-performing teams that can respond effectively to the evolving needs of the community.

Peter Whelan
Facilities & Maintenance Coordinator

Peter joined the Monkami team in late 2024. He brought with him an extensive trade background and is a qualified plumber, gasfitter and maintenance worker. Having been self employed for over 37years working alongside government agencies, banking and policing organisations, consulting for a sanitaryware and tapware company and carrying out all forms of maintenance and minor plumbing works across metro and regional Victoria.

Peter worked for over 11 years in the aged care sector as a Facilities Manager, overseeing a team of trades persons, gardeners and external contractors across large multi storey complexes, whilst working alongside residents and families living in independent apartments, high-level care and dementia wards. All of which helped hone his managerial and maintenance skills as well as project management. 

Peter has a desire to work with people who may require additional allowances and contingencies, to ensure they are able to live their best lives. Peter strives to be able to implement safe facilities that are maintained to a high standard for our staff, participants and residents.