Hi there, I’m Troy. And my goal is to empower neurodivergent young people. 

My earlier professional background and experience was in tech related industries. I spent six months studying computer systems engineering, ran a t-shirt design and printing business, and worked for eight and a half years in security systems installation and management. 

Whilst I enjoyed working in tech-related industries and gained many valuable skills, I often had the niggling feeling that something was missing. The aspect of my job that brought me the most satisfaction was mentoring, as during my time in security systems I had the opportunity to train four apprentices.

Inspired by my desire to help others learn and grow, and thinking back to how much I enjoyed my year 10 work experience at a primary school, I decided to pursue teaching. In 2017, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Primary Education. 

During my first year, I was required to complete a volunteer placement in a non-educational setting. I chose to volunteer at Reservoir Neighbourhood House, participating in a social tech and gaming program for neurodivergent young people. What started as a placement turned into an eight-month volunteer role and eventually led to employment as a facilitator and mentor. This experience became a turning point in my journey.

The following year, I began working one-on-one with neurodivergent young people doing support work. I found this work incredibly fulfilling as I felt that it had a meaningful impact on young people’s lives.

 

I became very passionate about the work I was doing, and I was keen to find new ways to support neurodivergent young people. In 2022, working under the Reservoir Neighbourhood House, I helped apply for a grant to secure funding for an additional program. With this funding, and in collaboration with the Northern Autism Network, I was able to develop and run a more targeted program called the Youth Gamers Program.

Throughout the years doing support work and programs, one thing that became apparent to me was that shared interests, such as gaming and technology, can be powerful tools for bringing neurodivergent youth together and fostering social connections. This insight is what planted the seed for Tech Together.

I graduated from my teaching degree in 2022. It took me a little longer than I had planned as one of my autoimmune conditions worsened and this meant that I needed a liver transplant in 2019. My brush with mortality solidified my resolve to pursue what gave me a sense of purpose.

After graduating, I launched Tech Together to continue my work supporting neurodivergent youth. I also continued to provide individual support and started a part time teaching role this year.

Through Tech Together, my mission is to create neurodiversity-affirming programs and initiatives that support, inspire, and empower young people with diverse needs.