Gippsland Social Enterprise Collective
As one of the largest regions in Victoria we decided to work together – as a collective – to represent the six shires of Gippsland.
We represent small business; education, creative, and community organisations and local government. We have a breadth of experience in Social Enterprise, great networks, a deep knowledge of our communities – and a burning desire to see them prosper.
We have a vision for a Gippsland that will nurture emerging and established social enterprises. We can’t wait to help grow viable businesses, doing good. With purpose.
Meet the team
Meg Capurso is representing Wellington Shire Council where she works as the Youth Liaison Coordinator. Wellington Shire Council is excited to be a part of this Gippsland Consortium; exploring, learning, and working towards our shared vision.
Carmel Riley: Founder of CRSE Group and passionate about all things social enterprise. Residing in Baw Baw Shire, Carmel is active in mentoring and supporting small business, government, and not-for-profits. She has a breadth of experience to contribute to the collective.
Amelie Boucher is a Project Manager for Gippsland East LLEN, one of 31 Local Learning and Employment Networks in Victoria. Gippsland East LLEN works collaboratively with key partners so people in Wellington and East Gippsland can develop the knowledge, skills and experience needed to fulfil their personal aspirations and succeed in their pathway through education to work. Gippsland East LLEN manages the Higher Education Study Hub as well as The Hub as a place for learning, community, connection, creation, and innovation.
Alyson Skinner is the Manager of the Venus Bay Community Centre, one of 400+ Neighbourhood Houses in Victoria. She represents the South Gippsland district with membership on a number of committees and boards including Neighbourhood Houses Gippsland and Koonwarra Village School and has strong ties with local council and networks across the Gippsland region.
Sam Forbes is the lead Community Development Facilitator for Elbow Community Building based in Stratford. Elbow was founded by Sam as a small, local, agile and high-quality community building business in Gippsland. Elbow was founded as a social enterprise and Sam is passionate about the potential of social enterprise to promote wellbeing, especially in regional and rural communities.
Sarah Tate’s drive and passion is working towards improved social and economic inclusive outcomes for people, communities, and business. Sarah has a particular interest in the valuable role of socially responsible businesses as we transition to the next economy. She has varied experience in the public sector and education and volunteers in the shop and on the board at the Baw Baw Food Hub.
Joh Lyons was the founder of The VRI a creative community space. Her work at The VRI included Digital Shed (digital literacy project), Alt_Art (emerging artist collective) and Serving the Valley (hospitality training course) as well as a number of community building activities. Joh is co-director of ReActivate and has worked on transition for Latrobe Valley through events, farmers markets, #GetSunflowered art installations and the Impact Boom x ReActivate Masterclass for Social Enterprises.
Andrea Lane is a long time member of the Centre for Rural Communities and co-founder of (f)route and FLOAT – social enterprise pioneers in East Gippsland. Passionate about the economics of art, environment and regenerative action in regional communities.
