Our Team

At Youth Insearch, our management team serves as the vital link connecting service partners, volunteers, and young Australians, delivering a program that transforms lives.

Together, we bring a diverse range of skills, experience, and passion to our roles, going above and beyond to support the young people we serve. Each team member is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters growth, empowerment, and hope, ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

  • Stephen Lewin

    Stephen Lewin

    Chief Executive Officer

    Stephen Lewin joined Youth Insearch as General Manager in December 2014 and was appointed CEO in November 2019. Under his leadership, our organisation has transitioned from a volunteer-led model to a place-based approach. Stephen is a passionate advocate for peer-led and trauma informed practices leading Youth Insearch to be a respected leader in this field. 

     As a former Youth Insearch participant, Stephen has a deep connection to the organisation's mission. His career, driven by a commitment to creating public value, includes 19 years with the NSW Government, where he held senior roles in accommodation and respite, community support teams, and home care. Stephen is known for delivering services to society’s most vulnerable and for leading successful organisational culture transformations.

     Stephen holds an Executive MBA from the University of Wollongong and a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management from Flinders University. His vision and passion continue to drive the growth and impact of Youth Insearch.

     

  • James Fowles

    James Fowles

    General Manager, Program Operations

    James joined Youth Insearch in September 2021 as the General Manager of Program and Operations, bringing a wealth of experience and passion for youth-focused social services. Since joining the team, James has been instrumental in supporting the growth of the organisation, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its programs, and fostering a positive impact on the lives of young people across Australia.

    James holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Graduate Certificate in Health Services Management, and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. His commitment to supporting vulnerable communities extends beyond Youth Insearch, as he also serves as a Board Director for the North Queensland Cowboys Community Foundation.

    With a diverse background in the social services sector, James has previously held leadership roles such as Head of Fundraising at Hello Sunday Morning and Senior Manager at the Suicide Call Back Service and MensLine Australia.

  • Wendy Barnert

    Wendy Barnert

    General Manager, Finance and Corporate Services

    Wendy Barnert commenced with Youth Insearch as the Finance Manager in June 2018 and brings with her over 19 years’ experience working within the not-for-profit charity sector.

    Wendy holds a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and a sub-major in Law. Wendy also completed her Professional Year study with the Institute of Chartered Accountants (now Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand).

    Prior to commencing with Youth Insearch, Wendy has held roles at a top tiered financial accounting firm within the Audit Division, and at SHINE for Kids, a not-for-profit organisation that supports children with a relative in the criminal justice system.

    Wendy’s strengths are financial reporting and analytical skills, ensuring the organisation meets its key goal of sustainable growth to allow it to continue and support youth.