Lauren Mandel | Managing Director
Lauren is the Founder and Managing Director of the LMC Group, since its establishment in mid 2018. Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), and Masters of Social Work Degree, with strong interest in the Social Role Valorization (SRV) Framework, Customised Employment, Homeshare and Microenterprises, which underpins the work of The LMC Group.
For 20+ years, Lauren has worked in the disability space with a particular passion for cutting edge supports. Some career highlights include being a Circles of Support Facilitator; Chairperson of Local Council’s Disability Reference Committee; Research Assistant for Independent Supported Living Project; NDIS Transition Coordinator in Local Government; Support Coordinator; Teaching Associate and Supervisor at Monash University; and the inaugural Inclusion Coordinator for a grassroots sports club.
Lauren is an avid SRV student, as well as applying and sharing broad learnings through webinars and presentations. The hope is to create a movement of dreamers who can see the true possibilities open to people with disability, and work towards these.
Outside of work and study committments, she’s finding ways to explore her own passions as an aspiring piano player, book lover, runner, vegetarian homecook and gym junkie! Lauren is the proud Mum of gorgeous 4yo Georgia, 2yo Walter, Baby Austin and furbaby Winston (a golden retriever)
lauren@thelmcgroup.com.au 0412 605 480
Anna Moore | Consultant
My name is Anna. I have a background in design and illustration, having worked in the advertising industry and as a freelancer. Over the past couple of years I have pivoted into working in the disability sector, having completed my Certificate IV in Disability (including a placement at The LMC Group!)
Since my studies I have worked as an independent disability support worker and business mentor, with a special focus on supporting a range of creative pursuits and small businesses. Outside of work, you’ll find me attending local artists markets, and drawing all things cute! I feel very excited and lucky to be working as part of the wonderful LMC team.
anna@thelmcgroup.com.au 0423 802 253
Cara Bronstein | Consultant
Hi there! I’m Cara. My background is in Nutrition Science, and I’ve worked in both hospital and community settings, supporting people to improve their health and wellbeing. Over time, I found my greatest passion lies in working directly with people, building relationships, celebrating progress, and helping others feel confident and capable in their daily lives.
I have over five years of experience as a disability support worker, where I’ve combined my knowledge of nutrition with a person-centred approach to create positive, practical changes. I especially love cooking with and for others,
Food has such a beautiful way of bringing people together.
Outside of work, I love dancing, playing table tennis, singing, and playing guitar, as well as getting out into nature and hiking. I’m always down for something creative or a big laugh, and I value connection, fun, and balance in everything I do. I’m excited to be part of the LMC Group and to work alongside mentees, families, and the team to make a meaningful difference together.
cara@thelmcgroup.com.au 0402 929 926
Ilda Fetahagic | Consultant
Hi there, I’m Ilda!
I bring a strong background in disability support, creative facilitation, and mentoring, with a deep passion for person-centred, strengths-based support that builds confidence, independence, and meaningful community connection. Much of my experience has been working with young adults on the autism spectrum, supporting them through creative and curriculum-based mentoring to navigate the social world in ways that feel authentic and empowering to them.
I enjoy bringing perspective, empathy, and humour into my work, and I take the time to genuinely understand what makes each person unique. I love creating supportive spaces where people feel safe to be themselves, explore new interests, and work towards goals that truly matter to them. I believe shared laughter can be incredibly powerful, even in challenging moments!
Coming from a big Bosnian family has shaped my love for connection, storytelling, and showing up for others. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me enjoying the outdoors and vintage shopping or at home getting creative with games, puzzles, sewing, and jewellery making. I feel privileged to support people to discover, grow, and celebrate that every day as part of the LMC Group.
ilda@thelmcgroup.com.au 0435 213 073
Madi Braim | Consultant
Hi there! I’m Madi. For the past seven years, I’ve been dedicated to the disability sector, initially focusing on management, before being called to mentoring people to find meaningful paid employment. Every day, I’m driven by the joy of seeing people discover (or rediscover) their strengths and achieve independence.
In addition to my work in the disability field, I have over a decade of experience teaching dance, fitness and yoga. In all my roles, whether in management or in the studio, I strive to empower someone’s day, week, month, or even their life. I hold a degree in Behavioural Science (Psychology) which has equipped me with an understanding of human behaviour and wellbeing, and everyday learning more through my roles.
I’m excited to join the LMC group and work alongside mentees, families, and the team of passionate consultants. My passion for empowering others and making a difference drives everything I do, and I can’t wait to contribute to the amazing work being done here.
madi@thelmcgroup.com.au 0413 210 157
Nellie Godwin-Welch | Consultant
Nellie has spent the last decade working within the disability sector across many different roles, including as a direct support worker, case manager, and helping build a disability supports provider. Nellie was drawn to LMC by its ethos and way that it brings to life the framework of Social Role Valorisation (SRV) into real outcomes for individuals in the community. She is the proud sister of a young man who lives with multiple disabilities, who has been a role model to her in how to live with joy, humour and resilience.
Nellie completed a Master of Health Care Management at Erasmus University in the Netherlands and wrote her thesis on ‘Building Partnerships between participants, families, and service providers within the NDIS in Australia.’ Nellie has also completed a Bachelor of Arts (Hons), majoring in history and international studies.
Nellie has travelled to 26 countries, a highlight being hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. She loves yoga, hiking, reading, listening to podcasts, and learning languages. Her future goals are to become a yoga teacher and write a book.
nellie@thelmcgroup.com.au 0434 541 182
Abbi Dickinson | Student Intern
Hi, I’m Abbi! I am currently completing my Masters in Social Work at Deakin University and undertaking my first placement at The LMC Group. I have previously studied criminology and psychology, with additional experience in Forensic AOD and Mental Health sectors.
I am passionate about social work and supporting individuals through a holistic, trauma-informed, and person-centred approach, and am excited for the opportunity to gain experience in the disability sector through my placement with The LMC Group.
Outside of work I love spending time with friends and family enjoying great food, music, and board games. I also have a passion for travelling and wish to see as much of the world as possible.
Adelin Zipman | Student Intern
Hi! My name is Adelin. I am currently studying a Diploma of Community Services at Holmesglen Institute. I was drawn to community services through the volunteer work I did in my teens. Through this work, I encountered incredible and inspiring individuals who compelled me to give back to my community, build connections, and advocate for equality and equity.
Over the past six years, I have taken on various retail, hospitality, and community volunteer positions, which have prepared me to manage complex issues with empathy, patience, and calm. I believe that taking the time to understand and connect with others can brighten days and change lives.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing guitar, knitting, crocheting, and watching movies. I have a passion for languages, linguistics, history, textile art, and music.
I am looking forward to my placement with the LMC group and to developing my knowledge and skills in delivering holistic, person-centred care.
Alison Higgins | Student Intern
Hey! I’m Alison. I am currently a student completing my Masters in Social Work at Deakin University. Seeing counselling and community work in my own life has inspired me to study social and support work. I truly believe through social connection and being surrounded by a solid support group is crucial for every person to be their best self.
Since graduating with my Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology, I have worked in the retail sector and also in garden maintenance for several years. I always wanted to return to my studies but was giving myself time to travel and to explore what makes me passionate and gives me purpose.
Apart from community work, I love being outdoors but equally being curled up with a book or my knitting alongside my tuxedo cat Lola.
I’m eager to learn as much as I can at The LMC Group during my placement, particularly working alongside the lovely team and clients.
Kerry Wainwright | Student Intern
Hello, my name is Kerry. I am currently studying a Diploma of Community Services at Holmesglen Institute. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be learning with the LMC Group and to further develop my knowledge and skills in this field.
Alongside my studies, I work as a swimming teacher. I am passionate about helping my students build confidence in the water, supporting them as they overcome fears and progressively develop both their skills and enjoyment of swimming.
I have chosen to transition into community services because I am motivated to support individuals and families within the community through a more holistic and person-centred approach. I am particularly passionate about assisting those in need and contributing positively to their wellbeing and personal growth.
In my spare time, I enjoy sewing, quilting, knitting, and creating miniature houses. I also cherish spending time with and raising my three wonderful sons, aged 4, 6, and 9
Nelli Skinner | Student Intern
I was born in Finland and moved to Australia fourteen years ago, where I have since built a life and a family of my own. Before making Australia my home, I spent a year living in London as an au pair, an experience that helped shape my independence and deepened my love of exploring different cultures. I’m a mother to a six-year-old boy and a mixed-breed dog.
I am currently studying a Diploma in Community Services at TAFE Holmesglen. I am grateful to The LMC Group for welcoming me as part of the team and providing me with the opportunity to complete my placement while further developing my knowledge and skills within the community services sector.
My career is driven by a genuine passion for helping others. Working in the disability sector has been the most rewarding experience of my career, and it has taught me to stay present, let go of everyday worries, and focus on supporting people through life’s challenges while celebrating the small wins alongside them. I am a naturally curious person who loves learning from the people I meet. Over a decade in retail management, I prided myself on creating welcoming and encouraging working environments for all.
Outside of my studies and work, I love adventuring and travelling with my son and finding treasures in op shops. Competitive figure skating was a major focus of my life for 13 years before I moved to Australia. These days, I stay active through yoga and Pilates, combining mindfulness with movement.
Raksha Ravikumar | Student Intern
Hello! I’m Raksha. I’m a Master of Social Work student at Deakin University. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to undertake my first placement with LMC Group. I work full-time in the education sector and study part-time.
I have always worked in team-based, people-focused roles, and have been passionate about working alongside people and helping them discover their potential. So, I decided to pursue social work because of its holistic focus on the complex interactions between people, culture and systems.
Outside of work, I really enjoy reading, yoga, swimming, gallery visits, going to concerts and hosting board game nights. I also love getting out in nature, hiking and travelling, and am often found planning my next trip. I’m a vegetarian, and I love discovering new restaurants around the city. I also enjoy learning new languages and am fluent in English, Kannada and Hindi and can have basic conversations in French.
I’m looking forward to learning with and walking alongside LMC Group mentees!