Our Management Team
Lani Blanco-Francis
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Lani Blanco-Francis is the Founder and CEO of LBF Consulting, Connexions, I-Connexions, IndigCareers, Burra Construction Group and Kaanju Solutions. With more than 30 years’ experience as a senior HR practitioner, she has built a national reputation as a leader in Indigenous employment, training and business development. Beginning her career with the ABC before holding senior roles with QANTAS and Insurance Australia Group, Lani has advised corporate, government and community organisations across Australia on Indigenous employment strategies, workforce development and organisational change. Her work has influenced multiple sectors and helped create lasting pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, earning her the Inaugural Neville Bonner Award for Outstanding Contribution to Indigenous Employment and Program Initiatives.
Debra Nooyen
Strategy & Design Manager
Debra Nooyen is a highly experienced Vocational Education and Training (VET) practitioner with over 35 years working in Group Training and Registered Training Organisations. She has held key leadership roles across various regions, including urban, regional, and remote communities throughout Queensland, South Australia, NSW, and Victoria, driving programs that secured thousands of apprenticeships and traineeships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Her leadership of employment programs stands out as a benchmark for achieving real outcomes through strong community partnerships and industry collaboration. Debra has held senior management roles at both the State and National level. She is widely respected for her strategic program design skills, deep cultural engagement, and proven ability to build strong training and employment pathways. In Debra’s words “It has been an absolute pleasure to work in an industry that celebrates people’s success. To be able to guide people to achieve their dreams has been a real highlight of my Career”.
Matthew Fairhurst
Business Development Manager
Matt Fairhurst brings extensive experience in Indigenous workforce development, with a background spanning national apprenticeship and traineeship programs. His career across corporate environments has seen him work across multiple industries, contributing strategic insight into employment pathways, training systems, and inclusive workforce practices. Alongside this, Matt’s work is deeply grounded in community. He has spent many years mentoring young people and supporting pathways into employment across community, corporate, and government settings. With a strong understanding of cultural engagement and a practical approach to workforce development, Matt is a trusted advisor committed to strengthening First Nations economic participation and creating meaningful, sustainable opportunities.
Natalie Williams
Digital Platforms & E-Commerce Manager (Group Operations)
Natalie Williams is a Digital Platforms and E-Commerce Manager with a passion for building systems, stories and spaces that create real impact. With a background across business operations, marketing, and digital strategy, she brings a practical and creative approach to connecting people, ideas and opportunities. Natalie is the founder of Stori.Rise, a creative studio focused on digital storytelling, website design and content strategy, working with businesses and community organisations to strengthen their online presence in a way that feels authentic and aligned. She also leads a range of entrepreneurial ventures spanning publishing, fitness and community initiatives, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both grassroots and large-scale operations. Her work is grounded in creating platforms that are not only functional, but meaningful—supporting stronger pathways in employment, enterprise and community connection. Natalie is particularly passionate about ensuring digital spaces are inclusive, culturally safe and accessible. At Connexions, Natalie brings a strong focus on systems, structure and growth, helping to build and refine the digital foundations that support the wider network and its future direction.
Yui Malaiman
Corporate Services Manager
Yui Malaiman has over 20 years of experience in accounting, including 16 years as a Corporate Services Manager. She provides high-level financial advice and support to directors, clients, and colleagues, helping teams make informed business decisions and ensuring all financial practices comply with relevant laws and regulations. Her role covers accounting, administration, and business support projects, including financial reporting, budgeting, payroll, and cash flow management. She monitors financial performance, identifies cost-saving opportunities, and supports strategic and long-term planning. Yui also develops and improves financial systems and processes to make them more efficient and accurate. She is skilled in preparing management and statutory reports, reconciling accounts, managing invoicing, accounts payable and receivable, superannuation, and other financial obligations. Yui works closely with accountants and auditors to ensure accurate reporting and compliance, while providing guidance to staff on financial matters. She takes a proactive approach to identifying financial risks and putting measures in place to reduce them, supporting smooth operations and sustainable business growth.
Tremayne Chatfield
Youth Mentor
Tremayne Chatfield is a dedicated youth mentor with a strong commitment to empowering young people through culturally grounded guidance and support. With two years of business experience, Tremayne brings a practical understanding of entrepreneurship and community engagement. His work focuses on creating safe, supportive spaces for youth to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore career pathways. Tremayne’s lived experience and deep community connections make him a trusted mentor and emerging leader in youth development.