Speakers

• Nellie Goodwin-Welch

  

  Nellie has grown up as a sister to someone with complex disabilities, and has been part of building a good life for their sibling from a young age. She has spent the last decade working in the disability sector as a direct support worker, case

  manager, facilitator, and mentor. She has supported individuals, alongside their families, to find employment, move into their own homes, start micro-businesses, participate in Circles of Support, study, volunteer, and build friendships and relationships.

  Nellie is particularly passionate about people with disability being encouraged and provided support to pursue non-segregated post-school pathways, by building typical and valued lives in their communities. Part of this is the opportunity for young people to live in share houses with peers their own age, having access to the rich life experiences that this brings.

  Outside of work, Nellie loves reading, yoga, and spending time with her baby daughter.

• Lauren Mandel-Wein

  

  Lauren Mandel is the Founder and Managing Director of the LMC Group. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and Masters of Social Work Degree. Lauren has worked in the disability space for over 20 years. She has a strong interest in the Social Role Valorisation (SRV) Framework with a particular passion for cutting-edge supports. The hope is to create a movement of dreamers who can see the true possibilities open to people with disability, and work towards these!

  Under Lauren’s visionary leadership, LMC Group empowers individuals to redefine what’s possible. By daring to dream big and harnessing their unique potential, people with disability have successfully secured customised employment, launched thriving microbusinesses, and moved into their own homes, all while occupying deeply valued roles within their local communities.

  Lauren’s true expertise lies in bridging the gap between a "big dream" and daily reality. She excels at guiding and mentoring support workers to move beyond basic care, transforming them into active partners who champion the person’s vision. By providing hands-on leadership and practical training, Lauren ensures that support teams are fully equipped to facilitate meaningful, valued roles for every individual they serve.

  Outside of work and study commitments, Lauren is exploring her passions as an aspiring pianist, book lover, runner, vegetarian home cook, and gym junkie! Lauren is the proud Mum of gorgeous Georgia, Walter, and Baby Austin.