Joe Mikaele Ah-Kuoi
FOUNDing Director
Joe believes every interaction has the potential to foster leadership. As a professionally trained and accredited educator with over a decade of experience, he is passionate about moulding today's youth to be tomorrow's leaders.
From the moment he enters a classroom Joe knows it’s game time to make young people feel seen, heard and valued… Because that’s when the magic happens.
Joe considers himself a life-long learner, which is why he’s always prioritised taking on roles outside of his teaching responsibilities such as curriculum leadership positions including the Head of Student Well-being. Joe takes immense pride in seeing young people shine which is why he has previously facilitated student leadership groups, Indigenous Leaders’ programs, and coached high school sports teams.
He is currently completing a Master’s of Professional Studies Research at The University of Southern Queensland with Joe’s thesis focused embedding leadership subjects into the Australian Curriculum.
When Joe doesn’t have his educator hat on, he’s usually playing super heroes with his young boys or volunteering on the management committee of Queensland Youth Services.
Kate Banville
Chief Everything Officer
Kate sees opportunity everywhere and thrives off connecting like-minded people who lift each other. As a journalist, Kate is a natural storyteller and sees a unique tale to be told in everyone.
Her previous career in the Australian Army taught her that every person has enormous untapped potential just waiting to be tested. Kate enjoys helping young people see this potential in themselves and is always willing to be their hype girl to reinforce it.
When she isn’t busy reporting news across TV, radio and digital, Kate is working on passion projects championing a sense of identity, community and human rights. You’ll also find her helping out behind the scenes as Joe’s side kick.
Kiah Hammond
Youth mentor & Tutor
One of Strive Lane’s core values is connection and Kiah has an ability to make young people feel instantly at ease with themselves.
Kiah has worked in education support as an accredited Teacher Aide for almost a decade where her focus has been supporting young people with additional needs as part of Queensland’s Special Needs and Inclusive Education Department.
Kiah’s high level of emotional intelligence shines when she works with young people living with disabilities, mental health concerns or behavioural challenges.
Kiah’s passion to empower young people is infectious to all those around her and the team at Strive Lane know just how fortunate we are to have her.