Capacity Builder | Youth Involvement Council
Vicki-Tree Stephens is a Capacity Builder at the Youth Involvement Council (YIC) in South Hedland, Pilbara. She is part of a dedicated team of over 30 professionals who collectively support more than 500 young people aged 5-25 each year. The YIC’s five core programs encompass youth centres, homelessness support, night patrols, family assistance, case management and a driver licensing initiative. In addition, YIC organises community events such as Hedland’s Got Talent and the Hedland Youth Awards. The organisation is renowned for its trauma-informed approach, making a significant impact on young people facing substantial challenges.
With five years of hands-on experience across YIC’s programs, Vicki transitioned from grassroots work to serving as CEO for nearly 14 years. Recently, she has stepped into a supporting role, handing over the CEO responsibilities to Tania Murray. Originally from New Zealand, Vicki’s Australian journey began with relief teaching in Mulan and youth work in Balgo — both remote communities in the Kimberley.
Vicki-Tree brings a rich background in education and social services from New Zealand, where she engaged in adult education, managed a youth centre, and led a mentoring program for Maori secondary school students. Her academic qualifications are diverse, spanning education, philosophy, Maori studies, management, governance, leadership and social impact.
Passionate about trauma-informed practices and mental health, Vicki thrives on nurturing the potential in others. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities and travel. Vicki-Tree joined the WACOSS board as an ex-officio board member in November 2019 and was elected as an ordinary board member in October 2020, with a subsequent term in 2022. She is motivated by the opportunity to offer a regional perspective and embrace the learning experiences associated with the role.