Ebony is a Programs Lead at Football Futures Foundation, whose journey into inclusive football is deeply personal. A mother of four from Perth, Ebony brings lived experience with ASD/ADHD to every role she takes on—turning challenges into catalysts for change.

Her coaching story began when her son Oliver, newly diagnosed with ASD/ADHD, found joy and belonging on an inflatable pitch under the guidance of the Foundation’s Inclusion Programs Manager, Mick Owens. Witnessing her son thrive in a space that embraced his differences ignited Ebony’s mission: to make football a place where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

With a love for the game sparked at age 10 and nurtured by high school coach Jessine Bonzas (a fellow coach at the Foundation), Ebony now coaches Inclusion Programs across clubs and schools, inspiring communities to embrace diversity. She also volunteers as an Inclusion and Diversity Coordinator and Goalkeeper Coach at her local club, where her empathy, leadership, and creativity shine.

The Kimberley region is three times the size of the United Kingdom and home to more saltwater crocodiles — and unlike the UK, it remains one of football’s final frontiers. The opportunity to help develop the game in this unique setting inspired Mike Doyle to take up his current role, supported by both Football Futures Foundation and Football West.

Having called the Kimberley home for more than 20 years, Mike is passionate about creating opportunities for people of all abilities to engage with football. He finds playing alongside those who are socially excluded especially humbling, as it serves as a reminder of the sport’s true power to connect and inspire. From supporting the most talented players to encouraging a child’s very first kick, Mike is committed to expanding Football Futures Foundation’s reach and impact across remote and regional communities, ensuring that football continues to grow as a truly inclusive game.

Stay tuned for Melissa’s story — coming soon.

Stay tuned for Kareem’s story — coming soon.

Before joining Football Futures Foundation, Hamza was actively involved in managing an annual community football tournament. Through a partnership with his organisation, Football Futures collaborated on several events — a connection that ultimately led to Hamza becoming part of the team as a community coach.

Alongside his coaching, Hamza is pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Curtin University. A passionate footballer himself, he enjoys playing in his spare time and is a dedicated supporter of Manchester United.

Natasha is a former Police and Forensics Officer who has transformed her career into personal training, sports training, rehabilitation, and lifestyle coaching. She is also an NLP Practitioner, lifeguard, Ambulance Event Officer, mentor, inspirational speaker, and Senior Peer Mentor with Football Futures Foundation. In addition, Natasha is a proud member of the Telethon Kids Research Institute.

Living with Sneddon’s Syndrome — a rare progressive condition that has caused multiple strokes, heart failure, epilepsy, vision loss, and spinal narrowing — Natasha embodies resilience and determination. She uses her lived experience to inspire others, demonstrating the power of overcoming adversity.

Her mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of current and future generations by encouraging physical activity, social connection, and resilience-building. Passionate about tackling mental health challenges, low self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing, Natasha champions inclusion and diversity in every space — from sporting groups and multicultural activities to workplaces and community programs.

She firmly believes that the sporting community is a powerful driver for change, capable of promoting wellness for all, regardless of ability. Through consistency, persistence, and empowerment, Natasha helps individuals develop confidence, communication, and resilience, ensuring they are equipped to face life’s challenges and achieve their aspirations.

Stay tuned for Hania’s story — coming soon.

Stay tuned for Jessine’s story — coming soon.

Stay tuned for Brenda’s story — coming soon.

Stay tuned for Agha’s story — coming soon.

Stay tuned for Benjamin’s story — coming soon.

Mayada is passionate about soccer and the way it brings people together from all walks of life, believing it to be a universal language that builds community. She is dedicated to creating opportunities for every individual, breaking down barriers so that everyone can experience the joy of playing regardless of their background.

Over the past year, Mayada has volunteered in the multicultural community sector, facilitating soccer and fitness programs and supporting those learning English as a second language. Since moving to Australia, she has embraced new opportunities to be involved in the soccer community — opportunities she says she would not have had elsewhere.

Mayada’s love for the game began in childhood, playing with her brothers. After losing her brother last year, she now honours his memory by sharing their passion for soccer with those around her.

Jenna, a proud Perth local, has been passionate about football since she was 4 years old, inspired by her dad, Jamie Harnwell, a Perth Glory legend with 256 appearances! She began her football journey at Sorrento Football Club and later advanced to the NTC program with Football West, where she spent three years playing in the NPLW and representing various state teams.

Currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Edith Cowan University, Jenna has been coaching football for the past three years. As a Football Futures Foundation community coach, her passion for helping others and teaching children shines through. Jenna loves the connections she builds with young players and the joy of giving kids who haven’t had the chance to participate in football the opportunity to enjoy the game.

Evan is a passionate football enthusiast and a dedicated supporter of Everton Football Club. By day, Evan is a 4th-year electrical apprentice, and during his downtime, he enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends.

Evan joined Football Futures Foundation because he believes in their mission of bringing communities together through football. His role as a community coach not only allows him to meet new people and travel to new places, but also gives him the opportunity to play the game he loves while making a positive impact on the community.

Michael is a dynamic leader with over eight years as a CEO and 13 years in sports and charity management. Michael excels in creating high-performing teams and delivering impactful solutions for youth and children’s services.

Sue Minutillo is a dedicated advocate for inclusive football in Western Australia, with a passion ignited when her son Chris became part of the Equal Footingball program in 2011. Witnessing the inception of inclusive football in WA, Sue’s commitment to the cause led her to volunteer at the Special Olympics, where she served in a pivotal role in establishing the first football team for Special Olympics WA. As a devoted mother, she has worn multiple hats, including State Secretary, Perth Metro Secretary, Football Coordinator, and Assistant Head of Delegation for three National games at Special Olympics WA. Sue also served as Team Manager for WA Paras and currently manages the Equal Footingball team at Cockburn City Soccer Club, championing and coordinating the Equal Footingball league. Additionally, she is a committee member of Cockburn City Soccer Club and the Team Manager of the newly formed WAID (intellectual disability) state team. 

Sue firmly believes in recognising and accepting players with disabilities, advocating for their rights to excel in football, from grassroots to national and international levels. Her primary focus lies in supporting players with intellectual disabilities, culminating in the realisation of her dream – the formation of the first state ID team (WAID), set to compete at National competitions. Sue’s motto is straightforward: to enhance the participation and acceptance of disabled athletes in football, empowering them to achieve their full potential. 

Her recent appointment to the WA Football Disability Advisory Committee is a testament to her dedication. Sue sees this role as an honour and a valuable opportunity to contribute significantly to the advancement of disability football in WA. Through her tireless efforts, she continues to make a lasting impact, ensuring that every player, regardless of ability, has an equal opportunity to thrive in the beautiful game. 

Jack O’Keeffe is the President of the Western Electric Sporting Association (WESA), a dedicated leader with 16 years of experience in powered wheelchair sports. Living with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, Jack has been an influential force in shaping WESA’s vision for the past five years, fostering inclusivity and empowerment within the organisation. 

In addition to his role at WESA, Jack has a diverse professional background, having worked in the independent film industry and taught high school English and special needs education. Currently contributing to the disability equipment sector, he leverages his expertise to enhance accessibility and support for individuals with diverse needs. 

Jack’s commitment extends beyond his professional life, with a significant history of volunteering for various disability sporting associations. His contributions positively impact individuals across different age groups, reflecting his dedication to creating opportunities for everyone in the disability community. 

As a leader, athlete, and advocate, Jack continues to inspire resilience and determination. His involvement in the WA Disability Football Advisory Committee demonstrates a sustained commitment to shaping the future of disability football, ensuring an inclusive and empowering experience for all participants. 

Chris Barty brings over a decade’s worth of experience and an unwavering commitment to building and advocating for inclusive sports environments. In his diverse career, Chris has worn many hats, playing roles as an athlete, administrator, classifier, and dedicated volunteer. 

Educated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Masters of Professional Communications specialising in Public Relations and Management, Chris has seamlessly integrated his academic background with his passion for fostering inclusivity within sports communities. 

Chris’s journey as an athlete has been marked by his significant contributions to the Sunday League, where he showcased his skills prominently as a player for the Joondanna Blues. His international representation for the Pararoos at two Para Football World Cups stands as a testament to his prowess in adaptive sports. Notably, Chris was awarded Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the 2018 IFCPF Asian Cup, underlining his excellence in the field. 

Chris considers his proudest achievement to be the co-founder of the WA Para Football program in 2010. Through this initiative, he has witnessed the transformative power of football in bringing communities together and enhancing the quality of life for individuals, irrespective of their circumstances, background or ability. 

In his commitment to inclusion, Chris serves as a valuable member of the WA Football Disability Advisory Committee. His expertise and insights are instrumental in providing guidance on matters related to inclusive sports initiatives. His dedication extends to ensuring that football becomes a game accessible to everyone. 

Saskia is a communications professional who collaborates with stakeholders to deliver strategic communications outcomes. Saskia holds a Bachelor of Communications (Public Relations and Journalism) and a Diploma of Digital Marketing from Murdoch University, and has over ten years of marketing and communications experience across a variety of sectors including media, education, public health, not for profit, sports and community services.

Saskia was only ten years old when she migrated with her family from Indonesia to New Zealand. She was the newest kid in the block and didn’t speak the language of her classmates very well. But every lunchtime, everyone knew how to play her favourite game, football! Through football, Saskia made friends, learned the English language and was able to connect with her new community. When she relocated to Australia later on as a young adult, Saskia volunteered and coached at local football clubs which helped her find new friendships and a sense of belonging. Since then, Saskia knew she wanted to spread the word about the power of football in breaking barriers.

As a football fan, Saskia is an advocate for sports as a community development platform and works within the media and communications space to support Football Futures Foundation in delivering impactful messages to promote its mission.

Outside her 9-5, Saskia serves as an advisory board member at One Ball, a Melbourne-based not for profit football organisation championing inclusion for children and young people from immigrant and refugee backgrounds.

In her spare time, Saskia is usually watching football games, spending time with loved ones and travelling whenever she gets a chance!

Nick has over 50 years experience in business across a variety of sectors including primary production, hospitality, horticulture property development and professional sports. He currently owns Sumich Group which is the largest horticulturist in Western Australia. He was previously majority owner of Australian Fast Foods which owned both Chicken Treat and Red Rooster.

In 1995 Nick founded the Perth Glory Soccer Club, Western Australia’s first entry into the then National Soccer League. He was also instrumental in the redevelopment of Perth Oval (now HBF Park) by the Western Australian State Government.

In 2019, Ernst and Young recognised Nick’s business achievements naming him as its Champion of Entrepreneurship at the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.
Nick is the Chair of the Football Futures Foundation.

Tanya is experienced in all forms of the game and is currently the Head Coach of Bristol City Women in the FA Women’s Championship. She has playing experience at a professional level for Perth Glory, where she was the first player of indigenous descent to captain a W-League side, and Doncaster Rovers Belles.

Tanya was born in the Pilbara town of Wickham and grew up playing football in a team coached by her father in the local community.

Tanya holds a UEFA A-Licence, a Diploma in Football Management and is a qualified sports psychologist.

James is an experienced senior executive, board member and advisor across government, not for profit and community sectors. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Football West and a member of the University of Western Australia’s Sports Advisory Board, whilst previously Executive Director – Community Development within the WA State Government and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) Advisory Council. He is also current Director of Richmond Wellbeing who provide inclusive, community-based mental health and wellbeing support services across Western Australia.

James has worked in a broad range of sectors including media, health, education, Aboriginal affairs, finance, community services including as a senior management consultant providing strategy and evaluation advice to State and Commonwealth government agencies.

James holds a Graduate Diploma in Commercial Resource Law from the University of Western Australia and Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Social Science from Curtin University. James is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and a member and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Chris has over a decade’s worth of experience in building and advocating for inclusive sport. He has worn many hats over that time, including an athlete, administrator, classifier and volunteer.

Chris has spent his working life working alongside communities and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) and a Masters of Professional Communications (Public Relations & Management).

As an athlete, Chris spent the majority of his Sunday League career playing for the Joondanna Blues. He represented the Pararoos at two world cups and won Goalkeeper of the tournament at the 2018 IFCPF Asian Cup.

He considers his proudest achievement to be co-founding the WA Para Football program in 2010 where he has witnessed first-hand the power of football to bring communities together and improve the quality of life of people regardless of their circumstances.

Chris provides advice on matters relating to community inclusion and is excited to support the Football Futures Foundation to ensure that the world game is a game for everyone.

Originally from Liverpool UK, Mick is a die-hard Everton supporter, living and breathing all things football (soccer). Mick loves playing and coaching and is passionate about inclusion in the sport – working tirelessly to ensure that the entire Perth community can play the beautiful game, regardless of disability, age, or background.

Mick leads the Football For All initiative including the i-League (formerly United Reds Football League), supporting local clubs to get involved in this fun and inclusive league for young players with disability or just new to the game!

Mick is also involved with the WA Paras football program and has been for the last 7 years. If you want to know anything about parafootball, ask Mick!

On the off-chance Mick isn’t coaching, playing or even thinking about football, you’ll find him cooking up a storm in the kitchen, or walking his beloved dog.

Ivy has held several senior corporate management roles. Currently Ivy is the Manager of the Corporate team and a Principal Consultant at CSA Global Pty Ltd where her areas of specialty include corporate governance, due diligence, mining studies and disclosure.

Ivy has been involved in the minerals industry for over 30 years in geology, mining and resource estimation, and management. Her operational experience in the mining industry in Australia and China as a geologist includes open pit and underground mines for gold, manganese and chromite. She is a director of the AusIMM, the largest professional association for those employed in the mining industry, and a non-executive director of Horizon Power, a WA state government trading enterprise.

Ivy’s passion for football was developed at a young age through growing up in Malaysia and being exposed to many international competitions. Ivy is now involved with Multicultural Futures, a not-for-profit organisation which provides support to migrants for the first five years in Australia, where English and living can be challenging, but football provides a great way for community integration.

Tony has over 30 years’ experience as a qualified lawyer in the areas of corporate law, commercial law, property law and commercial litigation. He has significant experience in commercial management across real estate, sport, not-for-profit entities, venue management and media industries.

Tony is currently Managing Director of Gramercy Legal and a former Director of the Educational Music Tour Bus Foundation Australia (The FAME Project).

Tony holds a Bachelor of Laws, a Bachelor of Jurisprudence and a Bachelor of Psychology all from the University of Western Australia. He is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia and the High Court of Australia.