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
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.
Aileen Xi | Student Intern
Hi, I’m Aileen. I’m in my third year of the Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University. Before studying social work, I worked mostly in administrative roles in healthcare and aged care. Over time, I realised I wanted to move away from office-based work and have more direct contact with people. That is why I decided to study social work as a second career.
I moved to Australia from China many years ago, and I really value multicultural communities. Living in Australia has allowed me to meet people from many different backgrounds, and I appreciate the diversity of experiences and perspectives.
Outside of my study and work, I enjoy travelling, listening to music and reading. These interests help me stay open-minded and reflective, and they also allow me to explore different ideas and enjoy my personal time.
I’m looking forward to learning through my placement at The LMC Group, developing my skills and gaining practical experience working directly with clients.
Alvin Wong | Student Intern
Hi, my preferred name is Alvin, and I am in my final year as a Masters of Social Work student from Deakin University. Social Work is my chosen second career having made my departure from medicine, since I have come to believe in a more holistic approach to helping the people in need that I come across. Besides English, I am quite comfortably fluent in Cantonese, and have some basic abilities in Mandarin, where I am currently also undertaking studies via Open Universities Australia.
Outside of studies, I am very active at a local church, which again adds another potential dimension to my approach in my social work practice. My other significant hobbies include song writing, playing chess, table tennis, yum cha and occasionally entertaining my two young nieces.
I’m excited to currently be a part of the LMC group, and really believe in what they are doing for the community. My aim working with them is to sharpen my knowledge and skills as a future professional skilled in Social Work, where I can apply my newfound skills proficiency in making a profound and real difference in people’s lives.
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
Madi Weber | Student Intern
Hello! My name is Madi, and I am currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University. I have completed a Diploma in Community Services, which sparked my passion for the social work field and reinforced my belief in the importance of a holistic approach to care and support.
I am currently working in the support work space, having recently transitioned from over a decade of managerial experience in the hospitality industry. This background has greatly shaped my understanding of people, strengthened my communication skills, and increased my awareness of the diverse needs of others—ultimately influencing my decision to pursue a career in social work.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy reading, engaging in creative activities, gardening, and travelling. I also have a strong love for animals, which reflects my broader compassion for wellbeing and care.
I am excited to be completing my placement with the LMC Group and look forward to working alongside the team while gaining valuable insights into the social work field. My goal is to build on my existing knowledge, strengthen my current skills, develop new ones, and most importantly, enjoy the experience. I am eager to begin and see firsthand the positive impact The LMC Group has on people’s lives.
Nguyen Anh Tuyen Le (Christine) | Student Intern
Hi there, I am Tuyen or Christine, I’m a first-year Master of Social Work student from Monash University, and this is my first placement. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be learning with the LMC team.
I come from a Health Sciences (Rehabilitation Counselling) background and have been working as a disability support worker for 3+ years , which has shaped my interest in early intervention and community-based support. Through my work as a disability support worker, I’ve learned the value of patience, empathy, and meeting people where they are.
Outside of work and study, I enjoy spending time with friends, writing bullet journal, playing piano and taking time to reflect. I’m looking forward to learning from the LCM Group, building confidence and practical skills, and contributing wherever I can as I grow as a reflective and ethical practitioner
Preetinder Kaur | Student Intern
Hello everyone, my name is Preetinder and I am a Master of Social Work student. I am grateful for the opportunity to undertake my placement with The LMC Group and look forward to learning from the team.
My interest in social work comes from a strong desire to support individuals and communities in meaningful ways. I am particularly interested in community-based practice and how professionals can work collaboratively to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, and promote dignity and inclusion.
Before and during my studies, I have gained experience working in customer service and hospitality roles. These experiences have helped me develop strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, which has strengthened my interest in working directly with people.
Outside of my studies and work, I enjoy cooking, exploring new places, and spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy learning about different cultures and perspectives. I look forward to learning from the LMC team, developing my practical skills, and gaining valuable experience throughout my placement