CHAIRPERSON

Melissa Hughes has over 25 years of experience in the youth services sector, currently serving as CEO of Connect Northern Rivers. Previously, she worked as a Careers Adviser for over 14 years. Melissa is passionate about creating inclusive and supportive environments for young people, ensuring access to education, employment, social services, and community engagement. She supports innovative programs that address diverse youth needs. As Chair of the YFN, Melissa aims to foster collaboration among members to enhance support and opportunities for young people across the network.

DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON

John Purcell is the CEO of Career Links, supporting young people in their transition from school to work across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. A founding board member since 1998 and CEO for over a decade, John brings 40+ years’ experience leading RTOs, GTOs, and youth-focused organisations across Australia. He also chairs the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network, is Vice Chair of the I Am Here Foundation, and a Director of the Youth Futures Network. John's work reflects a deep commitment to empowering youth and building stronger communities through collaboration and leadership.

SECRETARY

Jenny Fraser is the Secretary of the Youth Futures Network and CEO of Mid Coast Connect, supporting young people in their transition from school to further education, training, and employment. With over 25 years’ experience in youth-focused services and 12 years as a Careers Adviser, she brings expertise in career development, governance, and community partnerships. Jenny advocates for young people, leveraging her strong connections with schools and industry to create meaningful opportunities and support their future success.

TREASURER

Coming soon

GENERAL COMMITTEE MEMBER

Maggie Macfie is the CEO of The Skill Engineer Ltd. and a passionate advocate for youth and First Nations communities, with a diverse background spanning business, government, and the not-for-profit sector. As CEO of Youth Connections from 2000 to 2015, she pioneered innovative education-to-employment pathways for young people on the NSW Central Coast, establishing Green Central, a unique wrap-around service hub built by apprentices and trainees. Maggie has also led social enterprise initiatives in Western Australia, working with Nyamba Buru Yawuru and Bidyadanga Aboriginal Community to support business and education goals. A recipient of the Darkinjung Medal, Maggie brings a strong commitment to community-led development and has also run several successful small businesses.