It takes a diverse group of people to provide the many types of disability and youth supports we offer at MADEC. In this series we chat with our staff about their roles and spotlight some of the friendly faces in our team! For our sixth instalment, we had a chat with our Youth Services Manager, Keely Shepherd.
Tell us about your role as Youth Services Manager – what does a typical day look like for you?
As a Youth Services Manager, I oversee programs and teams dedicated to supporting young people.
On a day-to-day basis, I work closely with my Youth Coordinators to oversee operations, support frontline staff, respond to youth needs, implement safe and high-quality practices, deliver training, liaise with stakeholders, review strategic goals; and attend plenty of meetings!
How did you first get involved in youth work, and what inspired you to take on this leadership role?
While studying for my Bachelor of Nursing, I began working casually as a Youth Worker. I quickly fell in love with an industry I hadn’t even known existed, and I’ve been committed to it ever since.
What do you love about working at MADEC? What drew you to the organisation?
My team is amazing! MADEC’s values align with mine; supporting vulnerable youth and creating real change in the community drew me in.
You oversee MADEC’s two youth programs – the Youth Empowerment Support Service (YESS) and Out-of-Home Care. What is the difference between these services, and how do they help young people in our community?
YESS supports at-risk youth in the community, while Out-of-Home Care provides safe accommodation and support for those unable to live at home.
What are some of the key challenges young people in our region face today? How does MADEC help young people with those challenges?
Mental health, housing instability, and lack of support are all challenges we see youth facing every day. MADEC offers services, guidance, and safe spaces to help.
What do you find most rewarding about working with young people through YESS and Out-of-Home Care?
Seeing young people grow in confidence, overcome adversity, and achieve their goals
What qualities do you look for when building your team and working with Residential Youth Workers?
Compassion, resilience, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to supporting young people.
What advice would you give to someone interested in working as a Residential Youth Worker?
Be patient, stay curious, build trust, lead with empathy, and always be open to new challenges.
Interested in a career at MADEC?
Check out the available positions below or head to SEEK.com.au to join a passionate, dedicated, and capable team. We encourage people of all ages and abilities to apply, as we are interested in creating more career opportunities for persons with a disability.
