Chad is a Driving mentor part of our Drive me program at Youth Options. As a mentor, his main role is to provide support and encouragement for young people completing their learner hours. Helping young people to achieve their goal of getting their license, assisting them to overcome any barriers leading up to gaining their driving independence.
Chad is currently completing his Diploma of Social Science and has completed his qualification in Child, Youth and Family intervention. While studying Chad works as a youth programs coordinator and a Therapeutic youth worker with young people that have experienced trauma and neglect. Chad has been a case manager working with young people transitioning to the workforce with barriers such as homelessness, incarceration and mental health issues.

Chad is Barista Mentor at the Youth Options site on Sturt street, Adelaide. As a Barista Mentor, his main role is to support participants in developing skills in all areas of cafe work and coffee knowledge. Chad has a number of years working with young people and enjoys combining his love of coffee and youth work.
Chad graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science (Youth Work) in 2011. Upon graduating, Chad spent many years working in cafes throughout the United Kingdom and Canada. He has has travelled extensively throughout Central and South America, visiting coffee farms, attending expos and national competitions. Upon returning home to Adelaide, Chad has been working part-time in cafe’s whilst completing his Bachelor of Psychological Studies in 2022.

Lenard Sciancalepore is a Workshop Facilitator and Trainer at Youth Options because he believes in the capabilities of young people and loves facilitating this growth to help them be the best versions of themselves. Lenard is primarily engaged in South Australia’s multicultural communities and an active volunteer. An active traveller and language-learner, Lenard loves exploring new cultures, understanding traditions, and connecting with people. One of Lenard’s favourite quotes is by the late Nelson Mandela: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” For fun Lenard loves volunteering, going out with friends, playing chess and strategy games, spending time in the garden, cooking, listening to music, and watching movies.

Paula is a Driving Mentor at Youth Options and works in the Drive Me Program. As a qualified Motor Driving Instructor her main role is to support young people through their driving journey. This can be by providing initial lessons, manoeuvring practice or VORT preparation. Throughout their driving she assists them to overcome nerves and become Safe competent drivers.
Paula has over 30 years of Driving Instructor experience including training in trucks, emergency vehicles and motorcycles. She is passionate about all thing’s road safety.

Meet Jackson Fidge, one of our dedicated case managers who brings a unique set of skills to the youth space team. Jackson has a passion for helping young people achieve their full potential.
In addition to his work as a case manager, Jackson is also a qualified cabinet maker. He has an eye for detail and takes pride in his ability to create high-quality, custom-made furniture. His woodworking skills have also allowed him to teach young people the importance of craftsmanship, patience, and attention to detail.

Jackson is also a u18’s division 1 basketball coach. He has been coaching basketball for 3 years and has helped many young athletes improve their game. Jackson believes that basketball provides a unique opportunity for young people to learn important life skills such as teamwork, communication, and perseverance.

With his diverse set of skills and passion for working with young people, Jackson is a great fit for our youth space team. His commitment to helping others achieve their goals and his ability to teach valuable life skills make him an asset to our organization.

Jessica Joute is a FLO Case Manager at Youth Space. Jessica has completed a Master of Social Work and Master of International Community Development from University of South Australia and Victoria University. Jessica is very passionate about empowering others and providing support to those in need. Jessica uses her expertise in social work and community development to create customised plans for each individual based on their unique circumstances and needs. Prior to her work at Youth Space, Jessica worked as a technician at Apple where she gained valuable experience in customer service, communication and problem-solving. This has taught her how to effectively communicate with people of all ages and backgrounds which has proven invaluable in her work as a case manager.