ABOUT US
We are a Melbourne (NAARM)-based not-for-profit organisation dedicated to inspiring and empowering young people and communities through collaboration, mentorship, and resilience-building initiatives.
the MISSION
We exist to empower young people, strengthen families, and build safer, more connected neighbourhoods.
our VISION
A world where no young person
is left behind
the PROCESS
Think Village is about reimagining support — creating spaces that are culturally safe, trauma-informed, and led by those who understand what’s at stake because we’ve lived it ourselves.
our COMMITMENT
We are committed to walking alongside young people, families, and communities with authenticity and care. Everything we do is grounded in lived experience, cultural safety, and a deep belief in community-led solutions. We champion collaboration over competition, healing over harm, and empowerment over tokenism — because real change happens when we build it together.
meet
MAHAMED
Mahamed Ahmed is a seasoned youth development specialist, community leader and lived experience practitioner with over 13 years of experience across the not-for-profit sector and government. He is dedicated to empowering young people to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
With a systems-thinking approach, Mahamed bridges the gap between policy and people, ensuring those impacted by decisions have a voice in shaping their future. He has led large-scale initiatives that drive systemic change, working with diverse stakeholders to foster collaboration and build inclusive communities.
Known for his strategic leadership and culturally responsive practices, Mahamed is recognised as a trusted leader in the sector, committed to creating lasting social impact through capacity building, advocacy, and program development.
meet
HANAD
Hanad Hersi is a youth and community development practitioner committed to working where it matters most — alongside young people, families, and communities often left unheard. His mission is to ensure no young person is left behind.
With experience across the not-for-profit, education, housing, corrections, and youth justice sectors, Hanad brings a powerful combination of lived experience and professional insight. His work focuses on youth engagement, violence prevention, social cohesion, and systems change — always grounded in community and driven by impact.
Hanad collaborates with schools, governments, councils, and organisations to design and deliver programs that support young people at risk of justice involvement, exploitation, or exclusion. Whether mentoring, facilitating, or advising, Hanad brings a trauma-informed, culturally safe approach that centres early intervention, prevention, and long-term change.