a Youth Mentor based in the St George area, supporting young people across Sydney.

Hi, I’m Zainab (Zee),

I am passionate about supporting young people to feel confident, understood, and to recognise their strengths as they navigate through life’s challenges.

With over 10 years of experience working with children, teenagers, and young adults through coaching, mentoring and community work, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges young people face today - from low self-esteem and anxiety to friendship struggles and bullying.

I hold a Diploma of Counselling and am a Provisional Member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). I have completed additional training in identifying and supporting children and young people at risk. I am also a trained youth mentor and a frontline volunteer supporting women and girls experiencing hardship.

Alongside my mentoring and counselling background, I am the founder of a children’s face painting business, where I have been hired to work across large-scale events and corporate diversity-focused organisations. Through this work, I have engaged with children and families from a wide range of backgrounds, strengthening my ability to connect quickly, build trust, and create safe, inclusive and positive experiences.

I have been formally recognised by the NSW Government for my dedication and volunteer service to the community, particularly through my long-term commitment to supporting young people.

As a mother of three, I bring real-life understanding and empathy, allowing me to connect with both young people and parents in a genuine and supportive way.

My approach is warm, supportive, and non-judgemental. I focus on building trust and creating a safe space where young people feel comfortable to open up, express themselves, and develop the skills they need to navigate life with confidence, while feeling supported every step of the way.

Education & Certifications

Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015) – Health Courses Australia 

Professional Membership - ACA Level Provisional

CHCPRT025 – Identify and Report Children and Young People at Risk (NSW)

Qualified Youth Mentor – Trained with Raise Foundation

Frontline Volunteer - 4 Voices

First Aid HLTAID009 – HLTAID012

Experience & Recognition

Volunteer Head Coach - St George Football Association (across multiple clubs) 2014 – 2024. Coaching youth teams across U8-U21.

Parliamentary Acknowledgement – NSW Legislative Assembly Presented by The Hon. Chris Minns MP, Premier of NSW, June 2023 

Founder and Owner of ‘Faces of Fun’ (Children’s Entertainment Service) 2022 - present

Clearances

Working With Children Check NSW – Current and Cleared

Police Check – Current and Cleared