Meet The GameAware Team
Our multidisciplinary team knows that it takes one to know one.
Ali Al-Nuaymi (NSW)
Nutrition & Therapy student / Operations Manager
// Valorant
// EAFC 24
// Dota 2
Hello there, my name is Ali, I’m also known online as (Bane) and I’m absolutely thrilled to be a mentor at GameAware. I am a nutritional medicine & therapy student and a semi-pro Dota 2 player and coach. Since early time in my life, I have experienced the transformative potential of video games firsthand. They have taught me valuable life lessons about perseverance, problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking.
I have seen how video games can ignite curiosity, fuel imagination, and foster a sense of community. I believe that video games and digital art have a unique power to inspire and teach, and I am passionate about leveraging this medium to guide and mentor individuals towards personal and professional growth. I understand the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals, and I believe in fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among mentees. By creating a safe and inclusive space, we can nurture their passion for gaming while fostering personal and social development.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have been fortunate to have had mentors who played pivotal roles in shaping my own success. Their guidance, support, and unwavering belief in my abilities have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and achieve my goals.
Now, I am eager to pay it forward and provide the same level of guidance and inspiration to others. Other interests I spend great time on are creative arts form, especially poetry or Battle Rap lyricism, studying psychology, philosophy and theology.
Alex Arnold (QLD)
Bach. Business Management
// Apex Legends
// Runescape
// Minecraft
I am an avid gamer and someone that is passionate about helping others in gaming or any other areas of life. I am a great listener with a lot of empathy and get satisfaction from seeing others improve and get the best out of themselves. In my spare time I also enjoy all things sports and exploring nature.,
Adam Cefai (VIC)
Bachelor of Health science + Master of Occupational therapy
// Elder Scrolls
// Persona
// Halo
Hi there, my name is Adam. I've been working as an Occupational Therapist for 10 years, supporting individuals of all ages to achieve their goals and engage in the activities that are most important to them. I prioritise meaningful engagement and building rapport above all else, as I believe that developing mutual respect and understanding needs to be the foundation for therapy.
I specialise in clinical supervision and mentoring, which helps me to create a supportive environment for my clients, leading to positive experiences and outcomes. Gaming has been a big part of my life for over 20 years, going back as far as my Super Nintendo and PlayStation 1, and I still remember the moment where I was surprised for Christmas with the original Xbox with Halo. I love how gaming allows me to experience amazing worlds beyond my belief, while helping me sharpen my mind and regulate my emotions at the same time.
I also love watching anime and running (preferably trail/mountain running), and have found that striking the right balance between these hobbies and gaming has been amazing for my overall health and wellbeing. I’d love to support you to find your balance and achieve your goals!
Ben Jameson (VIC)
Developer + Coding tutor
// Absolute Drift
// Zelda BOTW
// Elden Ring
Hello 🙂 I’m a neurodiverse coding tutor and full-stack developer. I love working with students to show how creative and engaging it is to create your own games. These include Roblox, Minecraft, websites, AI, 3D modelling and animation. Outside of computers I enjoy rock climbing, skateboarding and acoustic guitar building.
Brent Hearn (VIC)
Support Worker
// League of Legends
// Marvel Rivals
// Minecraft
I didn't get my first video game till I was 8. Until then I was satisfied with watching my neighbour play pokemon on his Gameboy, since then I’ve been completely immersed in that world. I always struggled to make friends, and the only way I knew how was to share my interests and eventually I found others who played games, till this day I play games with those friends.
I started with Nintendo, moved to Xbox in my teenage years but once I found PC gaming I knew I found my main console. I primarily play League of legends, all Pokemon games, Super Smash Bros, Minecraft, The Witcher series, and Baldur’s gate 3. There have been times in my life where gaming was all I did, it was almost the only thing I knew how to do. It took a lot of learning, growth and support from my loved ones to help me get to a healthy place. I want to help anyone else who is beginning the same journey.
Bianca Humble (SA)
Bach.Behavioral Science
// Titanfall 2
// Skyrim
// Halo
Hay Hay! My name's Bianca, and I'm a student counsellor registered with the Association of Australian Counsellors (ACA) and the Psychotherapists and Counsellors Federation of Australia (PACFA) here to mentor! I was first introduced to games through my cousin; playing Halo Combat Evolved on his OG Xbox.
These days I'm very much into grand strategy, TBS and RPG’s - although I still love the occasional FPS and Rogue Like. My clinical interests are neurological developmental disorders ASD and ADHD, Addiction, and Mood/Anxiety disorders!
Chris Haddock (QLD)
Masters of Applied Psychology Sport and Exercise
// Need for Speed
// NBA
// NFL
Chris completed his Master of Applied Psychology specialising in Sport and Exercise at the University of Queensland. Since then, Chris has achieved Endorsement in the Area of Practice of Sport & Exercise Psychology. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and College of Sport and Exercise Psychologists and a STAP accredited Supervisor.
Chris was also a primary school P.E teacher for 10 years. Chris displays integrity, passion and expertise in promoting consistent peak performance for individuals, athletes and coaches. As an experienced Sport & Exercise Psychologist Chris has demonstrated a passion for his work in High Performance sport. He brings a flexible, open and unique style of consulting allowing him to work and facilitate elite performance in a variety of settings. Chris has recently worked as a Sport Psychologist with QAS (Queensland Academy Of Sport).
He has also had the opportunity to work with a number of elite sporting organisations & professional athletes ranging from South Australian Cricket Association (Redbacks, Scorpions, and Strikers), AFL, tennis, soccer & golf. As a psychologist and an endorsed Sport & Exercise Psychologist Chris offers Mental health and wellbeing services for athletes and non-athletes alike. Through providing evidenced based treatment Chris aims to enable individuals with increased life satisfaction, improved general functioning, positive impacts on general wellbeing, improved motivation and consistent happiness through resilience.
Damon Bol (VIC)
Occupational therapist
// Escape from Tarkov
// Donkey Kong 2
// Fortnite
Coming soon!
Daniel-Hrbolic (VIC)
Speech Pathologist
// Call of Duty Warzone
// Grand Theft Auto V
// Marvel Rivals
Hi, I'm Daniel. A passionate and neurodiversity-affirming Speech Pathologist with lots of experience working across the paediatric and adolescent private practice space and within primary and high schools. My journey began as an Allied Health Assistant, where I discovered a deep love for helping young people communicate in ways that feel authentic and empowering to them.
I specialise in supporting neurodivergent students with a strong focus on building meaningful connections, fostering self-advocacy, and celebrating each person’s unique strengths. My therapy approach is creative, engaging and grounded in evidence-informed practices that honour the lived experiences of the individuals I work with. Whether it’s supporting functional communication, social communication, or developing tools and collaborative strategies with educators and families, I’m committed to creating spaces where neurodivergent voices are heard, valued, and respected.
When I’m not in session, you’ll find me hanging out with my dog, Leo or gaming on my Nintendo Switch and PS5, where I love playing games like Fortnite, COD, Marvel Rivals and Mario Kart. Being a gaming Speech Pathologist allows me to blend my love of gaming and tech into sessions that are engaging, affirming, and fun.
Flynn Wheatfill (VIC)
Zoology Student & ASD mentor
// Warhammer 40k
// Team Fortress 2
// Mario
The first time I played a video game I would have been 5. I started with Mario Kart DS and have been an avid player since. I’m someone who was diagnosed with ASD at a young age, and as someone who has generally struggled with social interaction, games have been a way for me to make friends. I primarily play on PC, with multiplayer games like TF2, and a lot of single player games from Metal Gear to Persona.
As well as PC I’ve also been an avid Nintendo fan and have lots of memories especially with Mario games. I have a firsthand experience with playing video games a bit too much when i was younger, and want to bring that lived experience to other people, in order to assist them in their own.
Howard Li (VIC)
Psych student, Tournament Admin
// League of Legends
// Pokemon Unite
// Valorant
Jarobi Sellton (VIC)
Esports Career Coach
// World of Warcraft
// League of Legends
// The Finals
Hello, my name is Jarobi.
I am very passionate about helping build a friendly and healthy gaming community for OCE! I was a semi-pro League of Legends Player and Coach. I am a huge advocate for esports and gaming, aswell as the skills one can develop through gaming being applicable to the real world.
I learnt Teamwork, Leadership, Communication, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving and many more from my experiences gaming and in the gaming industry. I play a large Variety of PC games and genre’s and I am always down to try a new game and help build a healthy relationship with gaming.
Josh Battin (NSW)
Registered Psychologist
// Red Dead Redemption 2
// Bioshock Infinite
// Half Life 2
Josh is a Registered Psychologist with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the challenges of gaming addiction and related behaviours. He offers a compassionate, collaborative, and values-driven approach to therapy that focuses on developing long-term solutions and insights.
Josh is committed to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel understood and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. With expertise in supporting individuals with gaming addiction, anxiety, depression, and other behavioural challenges, Josh utilises a flexible, strengths-based approach. He believes that while problems are a natural part of life, we have the power to shape their meaning through the way we think about and respond to them.
Josh is dedicated to providing evidence-based treatments that help clients build healthier relationships with gaming and technology. He uses a wide variety of therapeutic modalities to engage clients, including innovative, gamified therapy methods tailored for children and adolescents.
Jaume Pirie (NSW)
Bach. Psychological Science
// Elden Ring
// Minecraft
// The Finals
Gaming and online communities have always been a natural way for me to connect, have fun, and socialize with people who actually get me.
Since I was 16, I’ve competed on esports teams — mainly in CS:GO — and built lasting friendships that have now spanned well over a decade. I deeply appreciate the many benefits the online world offers, and I'm just as aware of how important and easy it is to balance the digital and the physical.
I’m passionate about helping people of all ages and backgrounds realize they don’t have to choose between "online" and "real life". We can embrace both, keeping our lifestyles healthy and our minds happy.
Keegan McMullen (NSW)
Provisionally Registered Psychologist
// League of Legends
// Warhammer 40K
// Elden Ring
Hello! My name is Keegan! I have been an avid gamer my entire life. I have seen the how games can bring friends together during the isolation of COVID, creating lasting connections and incredible memories. I have also seen how a passion can begin to creep towards impulsion, causing strain on both the person playing, and the people they care about. I am very passionate in cultivating a healthy gaming environment, where games add to your wellbeing, rather than take away from it.
Outside of gaming, I work in various mental health fields, focusing on providing therapy for university students, and families working with ODD. In my free time, a love to mix my gaming with periods of exercise, including playing volleyball socially, and exercising at the gym with friends.
Kirsten Johnson (QLD)
Occupational therapist (mental healTH)
// Stardew Valley
// Fortnite
// Valheim
Kirsten Johnson Occupational Therapist Stardew Valley – Valheim – Rust – Fortnite – 7 Days to Die – GTA V – Scrap Mechanic - ECO - Fall Guys Hi, I’m Kirsten or you can call me K. I first started gaming around the age of 6 playing whatever I could get my hands on. I have primarily played on Nintendo consoles, PlayStation and PC. I have firsthand experience of using gaming as an outlet for not making and maintaining lasting friendships and meaningful activities.
I am an Occupational Therapist who works in Mental Health and want to bring my lived and professional experience to help others. I now primarily play on PC, occasionally Nintendo Switch and play a very large variety of games (even if I’m not competitive).
Leo Wu (VIC)
Bachelor of Psychology
// Teamfight Tactics
// League of Legends
// Path of Exile
At my best, I was organizing after-school gaming evenings with my friends. Looking back, it was all about socialization, planning, decision-making, competition, and just having a lot of fun. At my worst, I was clashing with my parents, becoming emotionally charged and defensive about my gaming hours. I would say things I didn’t mean and was unwilling to reach an agreement.
Years later, I have found my own sweet spot by using gaming as an outlet for my creativity and problem-solving, while balancing it with all other aspects of my personal life. The truth is, this outcome could have come to me much earlier and at a lesser cost to my relationship with my parents. This is a lesson I am now passionate about sharing with gamers who are in the same situation I once was.
Matthew Bing (NSW)
Disability Support Worker
// Gran Turismo 7
// Overwatch 2
// Marvel Rivals
I am a neurodivergent person based in Ballina, and I am committed to using my skills and experience to support and empower marginalised people. I see gaming as a powerful tool for improving life skills, and I am excited to use it as a platform to create inclusive and engaging experiences for all players.
Previously, I worked as Support and Engagement Lead for Bus Stop Films and Artist Support and Production Assistant for Crossroad Arts. I am particularly proud of the production "Breathe In," which won three awards at the 2023 Matilda Awards, Queensland's premier theatre awards. In my free time, I enjoy playing Dungeons and Dragons for its collaborative storytelling, limitless worldbuilding, and character development.
Matthew Burt (QLD)
Bach. Psychological Science
// Rainbow Six Seige
// WarThunder
// COD
Hey all! I’m Matthew and I’ve been a gamer since I could remember. It's always been my escape and I've made lifelong friends and memories through it. Like all things we enjoy, gaming is a fantastic hobby when enjoyed in moderation. Like all gamers, I’ve overindulged for hours at a time and noticed the negative effects of playing for too long versus playing for the right amount of time and enjoying life outside my room.
Nothing quite matches the adrenaline rush of winning competitive games with your mates after hours of understanding new game mechanics and spending hours in aimlabs. I’ve completed my Bachelor of Psychological Science but work full-time as an Aircraft Technician with a busy roster. It’s my passion to explore the psychology behind gaming whilst sitting down to play the latest competitive FPS to sharpen my skills and teach what I’ve learnt to others along the way.
Mikey Wulff (QLD)
GameAware Manager /Actor & Musician
// The Finals
// Marvel Rivals
// Magic The Gathering
Hey my names Mikey, My background is creative arts; having worked on some world class filmsets as an actor (finding myself on Netflix and Channel 10) but plans changed with covid and I pivoted to performing live music with the band Jungle Juice.
After being diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, balance became an essential part of my life and managing my body with a neurodiverse brain became quite the mission. Through my understanding of character development and storytelling my skillset ties into our CARED model to help my clients understand who they are; who they want to be (build) and what it takes to get there.
Nicole Sardana (VIC)
Behaviour Support Practitioner
// Grand Theft Auto
// Civilization
// Sim City
Hi, I’m Nicci! Pleased to meet you! I’ve been a part of this wonderful gaming world for over 15 years now. I love everything exciting, different and with all the fancy details! My academic background is in Psychology, with Post-Graduate Specialisations in Behaviour Support and Sports Psychology.
I’m a traveller, a volunteer, a long-distance runner and I’m fascinated with the power of the human mind. Games have given me what I need so many times - I turn to strategy games like Civilization when my mind needs a shift in thought and speed games like Grand Turismo when I need to get rid of those thoughts – It’s a great balance and I’d love to share the benefits with you.
Roi Baliton (NSW)
BS Occupational Therapy
// League of Legends
// AC Black Flag
// Valorant
Hi, I’m Roi, an Occupational Therapist with over seven years of experience helping individuals of all ages achieve their goals and improve their daily lives. I specialise in working with children, teens, and adults facing mental health challenges such as mood disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I take a compassionate and structured approach to support emotional regulation, executive functioning, and overall well-being. I work closely with clients and their families to develop practical strategies, whether it’s building routines, addressing gaming-related challenges, or enhancing social skills. As a gamer myself, I understand both the benefits and challenges of gaming. It can promote communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills but may also disrupt responsibilities and relationships when unbalanced.
I aim to help individuals find harmony between their gaming habits and other life priorities, ensuring gaming remains a positive and sustainable part of their lives. When I’m not working, you’ll find me exploring PC games, delving into gaming culture, or finding creative ways to integrate my passion for gaming and therapy. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more balanced gaming experience for you or your loved ones!
Roman Kisselev (NSW)
Honours/Post Graduate Diploma in Psychology
// Elder Scrolls Oblivion
// Hell Divers 2
// ARC Raiders
Hello, my name is Roman and I grew up surrounded by video games. They were always the thing I would love to do after school and whenever I got the chance to relax. I still very much enjoy video games, but, through the growth of my academic background in Psychology I began to understand the nuances in what video games mean to me and what they mean to other people.
Like with every hobby or activity you do, there are positive and negatives, as well as how long and how frequent you do certain things. I certainly enjoyed video games more than the average person, but I would like take this experience of emotions, feelings and attitudes I've accumulated and help others to understand the process.
Video games to me now as a young adult include two simple things, having a good time with friends, family and the social circles that I am apart of and stress-relief and leisure. Currently my gaming list includes: StarCitizen, Fortnite, Elder Scrolls Oblivion, ARC Raiders and Helldivers 2.
Sophia Adameitis (NSW)
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) & Bachelor of Commerce
// Stardew Valley
// Eastshade
// Sims
Sophia Adameitis is a dual-degree graduate in Psychology (Honours) and Commerce, bringing together rigorous evidence-informed practice with a deep understanding of human behaviour and data-driven strategies. As a lifelong gamer herself, Sophia leverages her authentic insider knowledge of gaming culture to connect with young people and their families, dissolving barriers and building trust from the first session.
She is a Psychology professional (pending full registration), holds a valid Working with Children Check and National Police Check, and has a track record of managing caseloads developed through her research and extensive volunteer work. With exceptional communication skills and a collaborative approach, Sophia empowers clients aged 8+ to distinguish passion from problematic habits, co-design sustainable gaming routines, and foster healthier family dynamics in a fully remote format.
Shannon Perry (WA)
Bach. of Psychology
// Baldur’s Gate
// Overwatch
// Sims
Having grown up in a family of gamers, I have been immersed in gaming culture for as long as I can remember. This personal connection to gaming, combined with my experience across a variety of consoles and genres, gives me a unique and genuine understanding of the gaming world.
I am passionate about helping young people navigate their gaming habits and supporting them in developing healthy boundaries between gaming as a passion and as a potential problem. My personal and professional insights into gaming dynamics allow me to relate to and engage with young clients in a meaningful way, ensuring they feel both understood and supported.
Tim Arendt (VIC)
Bach. Psychological Science
// Shadow of the Colossus
// Sly 2: Band of Thieves
// Bloodborne
Gaming has been my main hobby for as long as I can remember, my earliest memory in that regard being playing Super Mario World on my dad’s SNES. From there I moved onto the Gamecube and PS2, playing games like Super Mario Sunshine, the Ratchet & Clank series and the Sly Cooper series before gradually transitioning onto the PC in my teen years. Due to most of my PCs back then being low-powered, I tended to stick to indie games as it was all those computers could run.
It’s probably a big reason why I love indie games, as they tend to rely on creative ideas that make for interesting game mechanics more than AAA games do. And because of my underpowered PC, I was forced to find games that could work on it. This exposed me to a lot of great games like Super Meat Boy, The Binding of Isaac and Hotline Miami to name just a few.
Now as an adult, I rarely ever play on console except for exclusives. I now have a PC and Steam Deck that can run most things comfortably and since that’s where most games are released its most convenient to get games on PC rather than have my library divided up between different platforms. I tend to stick to a comfort zone of playing retro games and indie titles more than modern big budget games. No matter how much the industry advances I will always cherish the games I played when I was younger and I replay my old favourites at least once a year.
Outside of video games, I’m an avid tabletop gamer (both board games and TTRPGs like Dungeons & Dragons) and reader. When it comes to reading, I tend to like short horror/fantasy/sci-fi stories from the likes of Clark Ashton Smith, Lord Dunsany and H.P. Lovecraft. As someone who prefers things that get straight to the point, I appreciate a story that doesn’t waste my time. And if I don’t like a short story then at least it didn’t take up much of my time.
I also sometimes make YouTube videos on the games that I’m currently playing, more for my own record than anything else but also for close friends of mine since they seem to enjoy watching them. Finally, it is worth noting that I am Autistic so I do have lived experience with how gaming interacts with Autism.
Damien Schumann (VIC)
Teacher & Professional Athlete
// Modern Warfare 2
// Battlefield 1
// Warzone
I have been gaming on and off for 25 years! I still remember the day I fell in love when I unwrapped my very first Gameboy in 1996! From there I graduated to the 64 and Dreamcast and these days play a lot of Modern Warfare and Battlefield.
Once I turned 18 I put my time and effort into playing Beach Volleyball, as well as finishing school for design and teaching. That decision paid off because after 4 years of playing professionally, I qualified for the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. I use gaming as another way to compete in my free time. I have experienced first hand the benefits of how a balanced lifestyle is not only is crucial for performance, but also happiness.
Zachery Schubert (SA)
Professional Athlete & Business Owner
// Apex Legends
// Minecraft
// Skyrim
I have been a gamer my whole life and have experienced the positives and negatives of gaming! Gaming has helped me stay connected with my friends and family while I travel the world playing my sport. It has also challenged me to think critically, design, strategise and grow as a human.
I believe I will game for the rest of my life however, balancing my study and business while playing sport takes discipline and extreme organisation. Which all successful gamers need!
Trent O'Dea (VIC)
Professional Athlete
// League of Legends
// Age of Empires II
// Runescape
Hi there! My name is Trent, and I'm super keen to be a mentor here at gameaware. I have been a gamer myself since about 2007 and will most likely be a gamer for the rest of my life. I'm a professional volleyball player, and have played for the Australian national team for the past 10 years. I'm also currently studying to be a physiotherapist after my volleyball career.
I genuinely believe that games have helped me through many aspects of my life as long as they aren't overdone. I am now keen to share my experience and mindset with others in the hopes that gaming can be a positive benefit to their life when played intelligently.
Brendan Harms (QLD)
Team Bliss Esports - Operations Manager
// Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64)
// Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
// Rocket League
As an avid gamer for over 20 years, I’ve always loved RPG gaming and the immersion they provide. Having participated in competitive FPS gaming and Twitch streaming, I now work for the Team Bliss Esports Academy in Queensland where I hope to use my experience to help develop programs to help the next generation of young E-Sports athletes.
I am also President of the largest Medieval Live Action Roleplay group in Queensland, which regularly hosts community events promoting alternative fitness.
Tamara Fogarty (QLD)
Support Worker / Psych Student
// Dragon Age
// Overwatch
// Fallout
Tamara Fogarty, Psych Student and Support Worker. Since childhood, I have found enjoyment in playing video games. Open world RPG's (Dragon Age, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Mass Effect) are my absolute favourites and most played. I also enjoy some multiplayer and competitive games when playing socially (League of Legends, Overwatch, Minecraft, Terraria).
I believe that video games provide immersive and creative experiences that can give us a much needed break from the real world grind. However, I also understand how video games can become an escape that we may rely on too much. I am excited for the opportunity to use my knowledge and experience in the mental health field to provide positive and meaningful outcomes for young gamers and their families.
Parsa Hosseini (WA)
Psychology, Behaviour Therapy, Mental health coaching
// League of Legends
// EAFC 24
// DnD
Hello!
My name is Parsa and I am currently studying my masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, having just finished my bachelor in Psychology. I work as a Therapy Assistant with adolescents who have ASD or/and other developmental delay problems. Additionally I work as a mental health coach with a myriad of professional teams and players, most notably at the moment I work as the Mental Health Coach for Kanga Esports in the LCO.
Sheyan Gunapala (VIC)
Psychologist
// Rachet and Clank
// Spiderman
// Spyro
I have been an avid gamer for about 20 years. I’ve played action adventure games religiously (e.g Spiderman, Rachet and Clank, Spyro) and the occasional first person shooter (even though I have realised I am not very good). I have completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology from Deakin University.
I also have a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University. I am currently a generally registered Psychologist working in the disability sector. I have experience and interest in providing intervention and psychological assessment to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Hyperactivity Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and general behavioural difficulties. I enjoy working with individuals with problematic gaming and helping them create new healthy habits.
Neena En (VIC)
Youth Worker and NDIS Support Worker
// Age of Empires II
// Apex Legends
// Destiny 2
Hi there,
My name is Neena. I come from a really big family where the majority of us are gamers so I’ve played video games for the majority of my life. My favourite genres are first person shooters, anything sandbox, and crafting/survival. I play pretty much all genres though. Along with video games, I’m an avid board gamer and one of my favourites is Catan.
I am into fitness, nature, reading, journalling, podcasting and music. I am also a lover of anime, manga, pop culture, and learning!My most recent purchased game was Palworld. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
Joubert Van Der Merwe (NSW)
Social Worker
// Age of Empires
// Call of Duty
// Minecraft
Call me Jubes. From a young age, I was gaming on consoles with my friends, spending weekends at each other’s houses playing all day. LAN parties and COD were my bread and butter. Gaming became problematic towards high school’s end because I started playing all day after school and getting insanely angry when I was not MVP or in the top 2 of a game. It took a fractured toe and a failed semester at uni to realise that I wasn’t enjoying my gaming anymore. I realized that I was struggling with something and that's why I played, and it took learning to appreciate my life outside of gaming to make me happier and healthier.
I still play games, but it’s purely for relaxation, and I know my limits. I want to pass on those skills that I learned and developed to other young people on the same potentially destructive path so they can appreciate what life has to offer them, and gaming can stay something that helps diversify their downtime, not consume it.
Nathanael Yap (VIC)
Secondary classroom teacher
// World of Warcraft
// League of legends
// Valorant
Hi, my name is Nathan! I'm a Secondary Teacher by profession but have always been a gamer. Video games were something that helped me and my siblings bond as they taught me how to play games from a young age.
This was definitely the beginning of a passion of mine that has continued to this very day. I've explored all kinds of genres; RPG's, strategy, roguelike, shooters, you name it. Some of my fondest memories are getting together with my mates to play together at a LAN.
I've always been pretty competitive and try to perform my best, but at the end of the day valuing the time spent has always been just as important. Intelligent gaming has become a passion for me to direct and change the perception that the public has on video games because it has so many benefits.
Sebbie (VIC)
Technical Writer, Tournament Administrator / Organiser
// ..
// ..
// ..
Hi there, I’m Sebbie. By day, I’m a technical writer at a cyber safety company, by night I’m an Esports Tournament Organizer and Administrator. I’ve been working in Esports for the last 10 years and have been in multiple roles. I’ve been a Team Manager for Pro League of Legends and have done work for many tournaments across the ANZ region in many different games.
My mum was my inspiration for wanting to play games, but she was also the one who tried to stop me playing games when I was younger. As a School Teacher, she’s seen all sorts of issues around gaming addiction and didn’t want me to fall into the same habits. Through seeing my early work in high school esports, she’s been more open and supportive of my choices and of gaming overall.
I want to show people that it is possible to play games and have a good relationship with your parents. Gaming isn’t all bad and neither are Parents, we just need to find the middle ground!
Mason Drew (NSW)
Psych student
// League of Legends
// Borderlands
// Battlefield
Hi, I’m Mason a psychology student and a gamer. I have been playing games since I was a kid. I started with crash bandicoot on the PS1 with my brother. Games for me have always been a way to hangout with friends and work todard something together.
When I was in school I used to hangout with my mates after school and we would try to beat levels together on story games on my PS2. Later on I got a PS3 and started playing online multpilayer with my friends and their friends and got to meet all sorts of new people playing stuff like Call of Duty and Battlefeild.
Now that I’m older I play mostly on PC but still see gaming as a cool fun way for me and my friends to hangout and do stuff, especially with my mates who have moved further away. I’m now a psychology student and have started learning lots about what sorts of feelings and motivations influence our choices and behaviours. This has helped me understand more about why i play games and how I can still have all the fun of playing with my mates, without it taking too much time and energy away from the other things I enjoy.
I want to share this experience of learning about what gaming means to me so that I can help other people to have fun gaming, without becoming reliant on them.
Testimonial
"The program has been very helpful in making me aware of my own behaviours as a parent and the fact I don't push my son to be responsible for his actions. Ultimately change comes from within and he needs to be the one to regulate his behaviour.
As a teacher myself, I have found that I even change the way I speak to students in class when they don't do the right thing. I'm feeling better prepared to help my sons move forward."
- ParentTestimonial
"...Lachy's support and guidance was amazing! His professional approach to helping Angus was beyond my expectations. Angus was in a big rut and gaming too much. Lachy provided ideas and solutions that we, as parents, would never have thought to suggest. I loved that Angus looked forward to their fortnightly sessions, and I really appreciated Lachy's openess during our debriefs. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend GameAware and especially Lachy to any parent that is concerned about their child's gaming."
- Parent