16 May 2025
We’re excited to share some important updates to the leadership structure at Young Life Australia. It’s about recognising the unique strengths God has placed within our leaders and making space for those gifts to flourish — so we can continue to serve and grow well into the future.
Kelly Winiata will be stepping into the new role of Country Director, focusing on field ministry and the overall development of Young Life Australia. While her appointment officially begins on June 1st when she returns from annual leave, Kelly has already been actively stepping into this role — strengthening our team and deepening the foundations of our mission to connect with young people, leaders, and communities.
Sophie Wilksch will take on the role of Operations Manager upon her return from a well-earned sabbatical/long service leave in September. In this role, she’ll be responsible for overseeing the vital behind-the-scenes pieces that often go unnoticed but are essential in enabling our teams to carry out the incredible ministry they do each day.
In the interim, Claire Wood will continue to oversee operations. Once Sophie returns, Claire will transition her focus towards Marketing, Communications, and Administration, continuing to play a vital role in our organisation’s growth.
Additionally, Lily Hagberg has been seconded to the Asia Pacific Division of Young Life, while still contributing part-time here in Australia. She will oversee our bookkeeping services, as well as manage our reporting and budgeting processes.
We are adopting and approving these changes upon recommendation by the Leadership Team. We’re incredibly thankful for this strong and passionate team, that’s always seeking to listen to God’s leading and invest in what’s ahead, as we continue to see lives transformed through Young Life.
If you have any questions, feedback, or thoughts about these changes, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to us via office@younglife.org.au.
Yours faithfully
Vicki Rochow
Board Chair
Young Life Australia
