Helping young people to be the best they can be

Ben was named by Pro Bono Australia as one of the top 25 most influential and inspiring people in the social economy in 2020 and was also awarded the judges’ choice award of Innovator of the year. As a passionate advocate for the most vulnerable Australians, Ben is committed to driving significant reform to ensure everyone has the opportunity to be the best they can be.

Ben is a fearless young leader who his driving real change for vulnerable Australians. He has dedicated his life to community service. Ben became CEO of Youth Projects in 2017, leading the way in prevention and early intervention for young people, giving them the opportunities to be the best they can be! Ben is also the Chair of BGKLLEN and has recently been appointed as a non-executive director at Hepatitis Victoria/LiverWELL. Ben also recently graduated from Stanford University’s Executive Education Program.

Ben has been instrumental in creating an industry-leading outcomes framework that has seen engagement grow to over to 50,000 contacts and support delivered annually, to the most vulnerable people experiencing homeless and young people in need. Ben’s innovative thinking and contemporary approach to leadership has enabled the launch of new outreach programs, employment support and extended health services, all of which are changing and saving lives every day.

Youth Projects is an independent charity that provides critical and unique front line support to vulnerable people experiencing disadvantage, unemployment, homelessness, alcohol and other drug issues. They deliver primary health services, AOD counselling, youth employment & skills development programs, night nursing on the streets of Melbourne's CBD, unique drug safety programs and a wonderful social enterprise.